What are anti-fatigue lenses?

What are anti fatigue lenses?

If your eyes feel tired after a long day of screen time, you’re not alone. Digital eye strain is one of the most common complaints among people who spend extended hours looking at computers, tablets, or phones. If you’ve noticed blurry vision, dry eyes or mild headaches after work, you might benefit from anti-fatigue lenses.

Anti-fatigue lenses are basically enhanced single vision lenses with a small boost of magnification in the lower portion. This ‘boost zone’ helps reduce the effort your eyes need to maintain focus during close-up tasks like reading or using a phone. Think of them as a subtle helping hand for your eyes, especially if you’re not yet ready for varifocals (progressive) lenses.

At Banton Frameworks, we now offer Essilor’s Eyezen™ lenses, one of the most advanced types of anti-fatigue lenses available.

Let’s take a closer look at anti-fatigue lenses and how they can help more than just your single visions.

Illustration of how anti fatigue lenses work

 

Are anti-fatigue lenses for me?

Essilor Eyezen™ lenses are designed for everyday wear, but with enhanced support for screen and close-up work. They help reduce eye strain, support your eye’s natural focusing effort, and protect against harmful blue-violet light.

They’re particularly well-suited for:

  • People aged 20–45 experiencing digital eye strain
  • Those with mild ADD values who don’t yet need varifocals
  • Glasses wearers who want sharper, more comfortable near-vision

Learn more via Essilor’s official Eyezen™ page

 

Example of ADD on prescription paper

How do I know if I need anti-fatigue lenses?

If your eyes often feel strained after a full day of reading, writing or screen use, you might benefit from anti-fatigue lenses. Common signs include tired eyes, blurred vision, difficulty focusing up close, or mild headaches — especially towards the end of the day.

Another clear indicator is if your prescription includes a small ADD value (often listed in a separate 'near' box on your prescription slip). While a low ADD typically means you're not quite ready for varifocals, it suggests your eyes are starting to need support for near-vision tasks — exactly what anti-fatigue lenses are designed to help with.

 

Do anti-fatigue lenses make a difference?

Yes, especially if you spend hours a day looking at screens. Eyezen™ lenses are clinically proven to reduce signs of visual fatigue such as tired eyes, difficulty focusing and minor headaches. If you’ve been using standard single vision lenses but find yourself struggling by the end of the day, this small change can make a big difference.

 

Illustration of anti-fatigue vs progressive lenses

Anti-fatigue vs progressive lenses: What’s the difference?

Anti-fatigue lenses like Eyezen™ are designed for single vision correction (usually distance), with a subtle boost in the lower lens for near vision. They’re ideal for screen-heavy days and occasional reading.

Progressive lenses (also called varifocals in the UK) are different. These provide three distinct vision zones: distance, intermediate and near (all in one lens) for people with more advanced presbyopia.

If you're under 45 and not quite ready for progressives, Eyezen™ lenses can offer a perfect in-between. But if you fancy reading more about the differences between these lens types, head over to this blog post.

 

Are anti-fatigue lenses the same as blue light lenses?

Not quite. Anti-fatigue lenses provide dual-purpose correction (distance + near boost), while blue light lenses filter out high-energy visible (HEV) light from screens.

The good news? Essilor Eyezen™ lenses do both.

They include built-in blue-violet light protection with Light Scan™ technology, helping reduce digital strain while supporting your eye muscles.

 

Thick eyeglasses frame lying folded on textured woven fabric

Can I wear anti-fatigue lenses all day?

Yes, Eyezen™ lenses are made for full-time wear. The upper portion supports your regular vision, while the lower portion helps during periods of close-up focus. You can drive, walk, read, work, and relax in them with no need to switch pairs.

 

Can I drive with anti-fatigue lenses?

Absolutely. The distance zone of Eyezen™ lenses is optimised for clear far vision, so they’re perfectly suitable for driving, even in low-light conditions. If you require vision correction for driving, these lenses will do the job - with the added benefit of screen support during your working day.

 

How long does it take to adjust to anti-fatigue lenses?

Most people adjust to Eyezen™ lenses very quickly. The change in magnification is mild and gradual, so there’s no sharp jump between zones like with bifocals or some progressive lenses. That said, it's reccomended that you wear them consistently for a few days to let your eyes naturally adapt.

 

Close view of thick eyeglasses frame lying folded on textured fabric

Are anti-fatigue lenses expensive?

Yes, anti-fatigue lenses typically cost more than standard single vision lenses. This is due to their more advanced design and manufacturing process, which incorporates both your usual distance correction and a subtle magnifying boost in the lower part of the lens to ease near-vision strain.

This additional complexity is what makes them more effective for screen-heavy or close-up tasks and why they come at a slightly higher price point.

To see the most up-to-date pricing for Essilor’s Eyezen™ lenses, you can browse our lens menu here.

 

Are anti-fatigue lenses worth it?

Yes, if you’re experiencing tired eyes, screen fatigue or early signs of presbyopia, then absolutely. Eyezen™ lenses offer a smart, subtle solution before you need to transition into progressive lenses. They’re especially valuable if your day-to-day includes heavy screen use or long periods of near-vision focus.

 

Crizal® Coatings

To further enhance performance, your Eyezen™ lenses can be paired with one of Essilor’s premium Crizal® coatings.

Crizal® EasyPro is a practical everyday coating that resists smudging, repels dust and water, and makes your lenses easier to clean.

Crizal® Sapphire™ HR offers superior anti-reflective performance from all angles. Especially helpful for bright lighting, digital screens, and night driving.

Crizal® Prevencia is designed to reduce exposure to harmful blue-violet light while letting through beneficial light — ideal if you spend long hours on screens.

 

Still deciding?

If you’re unsure whether anti-fatigue lenses are right for you, or you’d like to explore all your lens options check out our handy lens menu.

You’ll find a clear breakdown of lens types, upgrades and coatings — including Essilor’s Eyezen™ lenses — so you can make an informed choice ahead of our next release of handmade frames.

Thanks for stopping by.

 


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