We live in a time where our patients are more informed, more fashion-conscious, and more aware of their comfort and performance needs than ever before. Premium lens coatings, memory metal frames, and advanced contact lens coatings all play a vital role in meeting patient expectations, addressing their needs, and creating a positive dispensing experience that leaves a lasting impression. In the optical market today, premium products are no longer just ‘nice to have’ – they are often what sets a business apart.
Advanced Lens Coatings
In today’s optical landscape, modern spectacle lenses rely heavily on coatings to enhance performance, durability, and wearer satisfaction. As optical dispensers, it is vital we understand these options to ensure we recommend the right solution and products for each patient.
Anti-reflective (AR) coatings are among the most popular premium lens upgrades. A premium AR coating reduces reflections from the front and back of the lens. Not only do these coatings improve clarity, they also improve contrast, and nighttime vision. They also make lenses appear more transparent, which is a strong cosmetic benefit – especially for higher and atypical prescriptions.
Blue light filtering coatings are in higher demand due to our screen-heavy occupations and lifestyles. Although the evidence-base remains unclear, these coatings are designed to reduce exposure to high-energy visible (HEV) blue light emitted from digital devices. Patients often report improved visual comfort, reduced eye strain, and better sleep quality, making this an easy value-added recommendation for office workers, students, and gamers.
Scratch-resistant coatings are essential to help protect lenses from everyday wear and tear. While no lens is completely scratch-proof, premium hard coatings significantly extend the life of a lens and help to maintain clarity, reducing the likelihood of remakes and unhappy patients.
Hydrophobic and oleophobic coatings have been excellent advancements in lens coating technology. They make the lens easier to clean, stay cleaner for longer, and maintain performance. This is done by repelling water, dust, and body oils – all appreciated benefits to our patients.
Memory Metal Frames: Flexibility Meets Style
Memory metal frames were first introduced to the optical market in the 1980s and are the leading lightweight eyewear solution for durability and flexibility. They are mainly manufactured from a mix of titanium alloy, beta titanium, Nitinol, and various other metals (the exact mix varies in different eyewear brands).1
These frames are extremely flexible; they can bend under pressure and spring back without permanent damage. This memory feature makes them ideal for our patients who enjoy active lifestyles, children, and those who are generally tough on their glasses.
Durability is another major selling point for these frames. Memory metal frames are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and less likely to snap at stress points such as bridges and temples. This durability often means fewer breakages and adjustments over time.
Today’s memory metal collections offer modern stylish shapes, refined finishes, and fashionable colour options. This allows dispensers to match performance with aesthetics, rather than compromising on one or the other. Flexon, Stellini, and Carrera Sports eyewear are just some of the respected names in the memory metal frame category. Safilo is now offering a new range of Carrera Flexolite frames for women.2
Carrera Sport advertises that memory metal “returns to its original shape after bending – making it the ultimate choice for durable, flexible, and ultra-light frames”3 while according to Marchon, because it’s Flexon range “easily goes back into the shape originally set by the dispenser, it ultimately makes for a better frame and fit”.4
Key Selling Points
As always, the key selling points to focus on are the value and benefits these products bring to the patient in front of you, and how they can enhance their lifestyle.
For lens coatings, it is best to focus on clearer vision, bringing greater clarity and transparency, especially for night driving and screen usage, as well as the ease of cleaning and additional durability. Also, don’t forget to mention the appealing cosmetic benefits, looking better in photos online and face to face, and being able to see into the people’s eyes by avoiding reflections. This is often a major selling point in our increasingly digital world.
For memory metals, focus on how your patient can benefit from the memory metal features, such as reduced breakage (bounces back instead of breaking) – a selling point that’s particularly pertinent for those with active lifestyles, those working in impact industries and, of course, children. Don’t forget to mention that they provide lightweight all-day comfort for our fulltime spectacle wearers.
Premium Contact Lenses
Premium coatings are no longer limited to spectacles. The field of contact lenses has undergone significant advancements, driven by innovations in materials, science, and chemistry. Today’s contact lenses benefit from advanced surface technologies, such as plasma processing, lipid-based coatings, and surface modifications.5
These innovations are designed to improve comfort and hydration (reduce dryness), and increase durability by preventing deposit buildup and visual performance. Additionally, advancements in surface chemistry have enhanced the safety of contact lenses through antimicrobial and antifouling coatings.6
Many premium contact lenses feature surface treatments or embedded wetting agents that help retain moisture throughout the day. This is of particular benefit for our patients who experience dryness, work in air-conditioned environments, or spend long hours on digital devices.
Some lenses include anti-deposit coatings, which reduce the build-up of proteins and lipids from the tear film. This helps maintain clearer vision, better comfort, and improved hygiene over the lens-wearing cycle.
Photochromic molecules, UV-blocking, and blue light filtering technologies are also becoming more common in contact lenses.7 Photochromic contacts that automatically darken in bright light (UV/blue light) and clear up indoors, help reduce squinting, filter blue light from screens, and offer UV protection. They work to balance light, reducing glare from headlights and digital screens to ease eye strain. This can reduce haloes and starbursts, improving night vision clarity compared to standard reusable lenses.
Important points to consider here: while offering some protection, contact lenses with UV coatings do not replace sunglasses as they will not offer full coverage – sunglasses are still recommended for prolonged sun exposure.
They also face some of the same challenges present for photochromic spectacle lenses – they don’t darken significantly in cars because windshields block the UV light that activates them.
Key discussion and selling points for our advanced contact lens wearing patients are lifestyle benefits, increased comfort over time, reduced dryness, improved durability, and improved eye health benefits. While your patients will usually notice the differences quickly, it can be best to give them a free trial as the value and benefits often need to be experienced.
In conclusion, premium lens coatings, memory metal frames, and advanced contact lens coatings all contribute to a better overall patient experience. Offering these premium products to our patients, understanding how they will improve their lifestyles, and clearly communicating the benefits will set you and your practice apart.
Ultimately, premium products are not just about higher price points – they are about delivering lasting value, building trust, and supporting patients’ long-term needs.
| Care and Cleaning |
|---|
| While premium coatings and memory metal frames are outstanding products, they can present a few challenges in practice.
Our biggest challenge is to ensure patients use correct care with lens coating. It is vital to provide clear cleaning instructions and usage advise. This can be done with verbal and written instructions (care and user guides) and by recommending or supplying appropriate lens sprays and microfibre cloths at dispense and collection. Memory metal frames can be tricky to adjust. As these frames are very flexible, they can resist traditional bending. Dispensers can overcome this by using the correct tools, gentle heat when appropriate, and understanding the frame’s flex points. Ensuring the frame is appropriately sized to meet the patient’s needs at the time of dispense will often overcome any discomfort and/or fitting issues. |
Rayleen Tamblyn is an optical trainer and assessor with the Australasian College of Optical Dispensing (ACOD). As well as being a qualified optical dispenser and trainer, she is a retail manager with Specsavers.
References
- Smith S. Memory metal mod cons. Mivision, Dec 2008, available at: mivision.com.au/2008/12/memory-metal-mod-cons/ [accessed Feb 2026]
- Safilo, Carrera (webpage) available at: safilogroup.com/en/product/brands/Carrera-new1[accessed Feb 2026].
- Carrera, Memory metal glasses (webpage) available at: carreraworld.com/collections/memory-metal [accessed Feb 2026].
- Flexon, About Flexon (webpage) available at: flexon.com/about-flexon.html [accessed Feb 2026]
- Abdulamier AA, Shaker LM, Al-Amiery AA. Advancements in the chemistry of contact Lenses: Innovations and applications, Results in Chemistry. 2024;12:101872. doi: 10.1016/j.rechem.2024.101872.
- Lipocoat, Contact lens coatings (webpage) available at: lipocoat.com/contact-lens-coating [accessed Feb 2026].
- Acuvue, Acuvue Oasys with Transitions (webpage) available at: acuvue.com/en-us/products/acuvue-oasys-transitions/ [accessed Feb 2026].
Flexible Frames that Retain their Form
Carrera
Carrera
Through its selection of eyewear brands, Safilo produces several frames with flexibility and shape memory characteristics. The most iconic of these materials is called ‘Ultem’ and is available within the Carrera brand.
Ultem is a high-performance thermoplastic polymer designed to be flexible, strong, and ultra-light. Ultem is ideal for modern, functional eyewear within the Carrera Ducati and Sport collections and is a feature of Safilo’s clip-on optical frames, including the Carrera 4020CS/PAT (pictured).
Visit: safilo.com.au or contact (AUS) 1800 252 016
Titanflex
Titanflex
The adage that design is never conceived without regard for functionality is shown by Titanflex in its newest collection. Beyond the obvious flexibility, toughness, and lightness, the new models inspire with even more comfort and functional smartness. Technical highlights include the slimline constructions made of the finest wire, as well as sporty-inspired New Mobility models. High-quality design also remains affordable with Titanflex’s economy concept. Designed for comfort, Titanflex is visibly aesthetic, tangibly pleasant, and masculine. Model featured is 820999-30.
Visit: vmd.com.au or contact (AUS) 1800 449 845
Ryan Adda
Ryan Adda
Experience the art of weightlessness with the One Edition. Expertly sculpted from high-grade titanium, these frames redefine ‘lightweight’ through seamless, fluid lines. More than just a beautifully crafted accessory, their minimalist architecture radiates a bold, modern personality, offering effortless sophistication for those who believe eyewear should be felt, never heavy.
Contact: Asia Contacts1 (AUS) 0413 243 782
Augie Eyewear
Augie Eyewear
Augie Eyewear’s adjustable temple tips ensure a secure, comfortable fit that grows with your paediatric patients, reducing pressure behind the ears. Flexi repairable hinges are designed to bend without breaking, absorbing everyday knocks and extending the life of the frames.
Contact: Augie Eyewear hello@augieeyewear.com.au or (AUS) 1300 391 440
Flexon
Flexon
Flexon frames feature technologically advanced memory metal in the bridge and/or temples, allowing them to be flexed, bent, or twisted before returning to their original shape. With over 30 years of design and construction experience, Flexon continues to provide quality frames that are more durable, lightweight, and resistant than conventional metals; allowing your patients to confidently embrace every challenge without disappointment.
Contact: Marchon Eyewear (AUS) 1800 251 025 or (NZ) 0800 141 444
Fila
Fila
Sleek and refined, the Fila VFI994 thin rectangular metal frame (pictured) features a flexible memory bridge that adapts to the wearer for lasting comfort and fit retention. The enamel engraved iconic F-logo adds a sophisticated signature, complemented by matching temple tips, a carbon fibre temple insert, and a classic colour palette for timeless elegance.
Contact: De Rigo (AUS) 02 9428 1500 or sales.au@derigo.com
LINDBERG
LINDBERG
Quality, comfort, and innovation. LINDBERG eyewear is the epitome of Danish design. With a highly specialised team committed to the research and development of new cutting-edge techniques, each LINDBERG frame is ultra-lightweight and constructed without any screws or rivets.
Visit: lindberg.com
Optimise Clarity with Premium Lens Coatings
Essilor Crizal
Essilor Crizal
Crizal is Essilor’s premium lens coating range, offering a combination of clarity, durability, cleanability, and UV protection. Crizal lens coatings reduce glare, scratches, smudges, dust, and water. The anti-reflection coating is composed of ultra-thin transparent layers, placed on the front and back surfaces of the lens, to reduce the amount of light that reflects on it. Oleophobic, hydrophobic, and anti-static properties help lenses stay cleaner for longer.
Extensive laboratory, wearer, and durability testing has been conducted. With scratch resistance, easy-to-clean surfaces, and back-surface UV protection (up to E-SPF 35), Crizal lens coatings offer durable, visual solutions. Crizal is available as Crizal EasyPro, Crizal Rock, Crizal Prevencia, and Crizal Sapphire HR.
Contact: Essilor Account Manager or visit essilor.com/au-en/products/crizal
CR Labs Satin+
CR Labs
CR Labs’ Satin+ range comprises a comprehensive suite of premium coatings designed to deliver tailored visual solutions. Developed and manufactured locally, the range is engineered to withstand Australia’s harsh climate while maintaining exceptional optical performance.
At the core is advanced anti-reflective technology that minimises reflections, enhances durability, and improves visual comfort. Building on this, each coating incorporates additional features to address specific visual and aesthetic needs.
From enhanced low-light performance with Satin+ Night, to improved digital comfort with Satin+ Blue, and elevated aesthetics with Satin+ Vogue, the Satin+ portfolio enables coating performance to match the unique lifestyles of every patient.
Visit: crlabs.au or contact (AUS) 03 8795 9111
ZEISS DuraVision Plus
ZEISS
Launching in May 2026, ZEISS DuraVision Plus introduces a groundbreaking upgrade to lens coatings with ZEISS CleanGuard technology.
Designed for exceptional clarity and durability, these coatings make lenses significantly faster to clean. Consumer studies highlight impressive results: users found lenses more water-repellent and reported easier fingerprint removal. With advanced smudge resistance and a patented anti-static layer to repel dust, ZEISS DuraVision Plus ensures long-lasting performance and hassle-free maintenance. Available in all current Rx coatings.
Contact: ZEISS Customer Care
HOYA Hi-Vision Meiryo Diamond
HOYA
HOYA’s Hi-Vision Meiryo Diamond is its most advanced premium anti-reflective coating, engineered to deliver exceptional clarity, durability, and long-lasting performance.
Building on HOYA’s proven coating expertise, it sets a new benchmark for reflectance, scratch resistance, and ease of maintenance.
Hi-Vision Meiryo Diamond offers 56% lower reflectance compared to competitors,¹ helping reduce distracting glare and deliver crisp, comfortable vision in all lighting conditions.
It’s advanced hydrophobic and oleophobic layers maintain easy-to-clean performance up to five times longer,² while delivering up to 2.5 times greater scratch resistance for enhanced durability.3
The coating provides 100% UV protection on the front surface, with additional UV protection on the back surface, supporting long-term eye health.
Designed for today’s visual demands, Hi-Vision Meiryo Diamond protects against scratches, smudges, glare, and UV exposure, helping wearers enjoy clear, reliable vision every day.
Hi-Vision Meiryo Diamond is available across the grind portfolio and selected single vision stock lenses, making premium protection more accessible across a wider range of prescriptions.
Contact: HOYA Account Manager
References
- HOYAdata on file. Product assessment report – Hi-Vision Meiryo 03/2023. Based on reflection values measured in the luminous reflectance Rv evaluation.
- HOYAdata on file. Product assessment report – Hi-Vision Meiryo 03/2023. Hi-Vision Meiryo Diamond maintains Hydrophobic performance up to 5X that of all competitive coatings tested.
- HOYAdata on file. Product assessment report – Hi-Vision Meiryo 03/2023. Hi-Vision Meiryo Diamond performed up to 2.5x better than major competitor’s best coating in the SWSC passing 2.5kgs.
- Claim based on internal assessment using AS/NZS 1067.1-2016 as the strictest industrial standard.
Rodenstock LayR with X-tra Clean
Rodenstock
Rodenstock LayR with X-tra Clean technology offers patients crystal-clear vision and lenses that stay cleaner for longer.
According to Rodenstock, it’s the molecules that make the difference; the X-Tra Clean coating is ultra-smooth and the dirt-repellent top layer makes it harder for dust, smudges, and water to stick, allowing lenses to be wiped clean easily and effortlessly. When Xtra Clean is combined with LayR’s premium anti-reflective and scratch-resistant properties, patients enjoy sharper, glare-free vision with minimal maintenance.
Ideal for busy, modern lifestyles, X-tra Clean ensures lenses look newer for longer and perform at their best every day. For patients, this means clearer, more comfortable vision, and less time spent cleaning their lenses.
Contact: Rodenstock Account Manager or visit rodenstock.com.au
Shamir Glacier Expression
Shamir
Shamir’s Glacier Expression is based on its latest proprietary technology, LayerCalc, which features multi-layered lens coatings – the result of extensive research and development.
Shamir Glacier Expression provides an astonishing level of clarity, devoid of disturbing reflections, for improved quality of vision. Internal comparative tests with Shamir’s standard premium anti-reflective lenses demonstrate that Shamir Glacier Expression provides 70% less reflection and 20% better contrast.1 Similarly, in a comparative survey of lens coatings conducted among over 100 eye care professionals worldwide, Shamir reported that 96% chose Glacier Expression for overall satisfaction, making it the clear winner.2 Shamir said its research shows it improves quality of personal interaction, offering a total see-better, look-better, feel-better experience.
Visit: shamir.com/au
References
- Shamir data on file.
- Shamir data on file.
Bausch and Lomb Ultra One Day
Bausch and Lomb
Bausch and Lomb’s Ultra One Day contact lens brings together two proven technologies – Advanced MoistureSeal and ComfortFeel – working in synergy to deliver exceptional comfort for up to 16 hours a day. Designed to meet the demands of contact lens wearers’ lifestyle, Ultra One Day supports ocular surface homeostasis while maintaining a stable, comfortable tear film throughout the day.
The lens material is highly breathable to promote corneal health, and has a soft, low-modulus design for enhanced on-eye comfort and easy handling. With built-in UV blocking, Ultra One Day offers a complete daily disposable solution that balances lasting comfort, eye health, and performance from insertion to removal.
Contact: Bausch and Lomb Account Manager
