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Scratch Resistant Coating

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Scratch-resistant coating (also called hard coat) adds a durable protective layer to plastic lenses. Standard on all our lenses — extends lens life significantly.

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What Is Scratch Resistant Coating?

Plastic prescription lenses — even high-quality CR-39 and high-index materials — are inherently softer than glass and can scratch from everyday use. A scratch-resistant hard coat is applied as a thin transparent layer to both surfaces of the lens, significantly increasing durability.

How It Works

The hard coat is applied via dip coating or spin coating in a controlled environment, then cured under UV light or heat. The resulting surface is harder and more abrasion-resistant than uncoated plastic, while remaining optically clear.

Included as Standard

All our prescription lenses include scratch-resistant coating as standard — no upgrade or additional charge is required. For maximum scratch protection, consider Crizal's advanced anti-reflective coatings which include an enhanced scratch-resistant system.

What Scratch Coating Won't Do

No plastic lens is scratch-proof. Hard coating significantly improves resistance but deep scratches from sand, gravel, or rough surfaces can still occur. Proper lens care — storing in a case, using microfiber cloth for cleaning — extends lens life significantly.

Common Questions

Can I add multiple coatings to one lens?
Yes. Scratch-resistant, UV, tint, and anti-reflective coatings can all be combined. Crizal AR coating includes scratch resistance — you wouldn't add a separate hard coat.
Are coatings permanent?
Coatings are applied directly to the lens surface and are permanent under normal conditions. Avoid abrasive cleaners, paper towels, and extreme heat (like leaving glasses in a hot car).
Which coating is the most important?
For everyday wear: anti-reflective coating makes the biggest quality-of-life difference. For outdoor use: UV protection and polarization or transitions. For screen users: blue light filtering.