French optical group Essilor has launched a new lens with embedded protection against harmful UV and blue-violet light.
Its Eye Protect System was designed to protect against harmful light while letting good blue-turquoise transmit through the lens.
It said that currently most spectacle lenses offering blue light protection were available through an AR coating or chemicals applied into the lens.
Mike Kirkley, managing director of Essilor UK, said: ‘We care about protecting eyes and this innovation is a further commitment to make blue-violet light and UV protection available for all. We will offer this technology as a fundamental part of our business at no extra cost, creating a new industry standard.’
Eye Protect System will be available from July 4 on Essilor’s premium lenses, Varilux S series and Varilux E series, and all Essilor Transitions lenses with Crizal UV.
‘In lab research has shown that blue violet light damages retinal tissue through highlighting the reduction in this cell death through it being filtered out,’ said Andy Hepworth, professional relations manager at Essilor UK. ‘As a leader in the optical industry, it is our duty to provide solutions that mean eye care professionals can offer patients protection as well as correction, and so offer the best ophthalmic lens solutions on the market.’