Sunglasses & Prescription Sun Lenses
Sunglasses & Prescription Sun Lenses in Singapore
Sunglasses do more than complete a look — in Singapore's bright, year-round sun, they are part of looking after your long-term eye health. At EMME Visioncare, an independent optometry practice in Singapore, we fit prescription and non-prescription sunglasses, from polarised and UV-protective lenses to designer frames, so you can see comfortably outdoors without compromising on style or vision. If you wear glasses, your sunglasses can carry your full prescription too, so there's no need to choose between clear sight and sun protection.
Why Sun Protection Matters for Your Eyes
Ultraviolet (UV) exposure builds up over a lifetime, and the eyes are as vulnerable to it as the skin. The American Optometric Association notes that the longer your eyes are exposed to solar radiation, the greater the risk of developing conditions such as cataracts, pterygium (a growth on the surface of the eye, sometimes called "surfer's eye"), and macular degeneration later in life. Because UV damage is cumulative and often causes no discomfort at the time, daily protection matters more than most people realise — and it matters on cloudy days too. You can read more in our guide to how ultraviolet rays can damage your eyes.
The most important feature in any pair of sunglasses is not the tint but the UV filter. We recommend lenses designed to block 100% of both UVA and UVB rays. A darker tint without proper UV protection can actually be counter-productive, because it relaxes the pupil and lets more unfiltered light reach the retina. Every pair of sunglasses we fit is chosen with that protection in mind.
Prescription Sunglasses
If you rely on glasses for clear vision, prescription sunglasses let you see sharply and shield your eyes at the same time. We can put your current prescription into sun-tinted lenses across single-vision, bifocal and progressive designs, so drivers, readers and outdoor wearers are all covered. The starting point is always an up-to-date prescription from a proper eye examination, so your sun lenses are matched to your current vision rather than an old pair.
We fit sun lenses from established manufacturers including Essilor of France and Carl Zeiss of Germany, with a range of tints, coatings and materials. Our optometrist will talk through which lens type suits your prescription, your daily tasks and your budget — you can also explore the full range on our eyewear lenses page.
Polarised, Tinted & Photochromic Options
Beyond a standard tint, there are sun-lens options designed for specific needs:
- Polarised lenses are designed to cut reflected glare from roads, water and other flat surfaces, which can make driving and time near the sea or pool more comfortable. Our blog on reducing glare with polarised sunglasses explains how they work.
- Photochromic (light-adaptive) lenses darken in bright sunlight and clear indoors, giving you one pair that adjusts to changing light. See our guide to light-adaptive Transitions lenses for more.
- Tinted lenses in different colours and densities can suit particular activities and personal comfort, while still carrying full UV protection.
Our optometrist will recommend the options that match how you actually spend your time outdoors, without adding features you do not need.
Designer Sunglasses & Frames
Sunglasses are also an expression of personal style, and our collection ranges from distinctive designer pieces to dependable everyday frames. We carry sports-oriented and lifestyle sunglasses such as Oakley, alongside the wider designer eyewear in our main collection. Many frames feature an "Asian Fit" design with adjusted nose bridges and proportions for a more comfortable, stable fit. To see our full frame range, visit our eyewear collection, where our optometrist and optician can help you find a pair that fits well and suits your face.
Sunglasses for Children
Children's eyes let in more UV than adults', and much of a lifetime's sun exposure happens during childhood — so good sunglasses are a sensible habit to start early. We carry durable, well-fitting children's sunglasses built for everyday wear. Our blog on whether your child needs sunglasses covers what to look for and when to start.
Our Sunglasses & Eyewear Services
- Eyewear Lenses — lens types, tints, materials and coatings explained
- Designer Eyewear — our full frame collection for adults and children
- Express Service — for when you need new glasses or sunglasses without a long wait
Frequently Asked Questions
Do my sunglasses really need UV protection in Singapore?
Yes. Singapore sits close to the equator with strong year-round sun, and UV is present even on overcast days. We recommend sunglasses with lenses designed to block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, as the UV filter — not the darkness of the tint — is what protects your eyes.
Can I get my prescription in sunglasses?
Yes. We can fit your current prescription into sun-tinted lenses across single-vision, bifocal and progressive designs. You'll need an up-to-date prescription, so it's best to book an eye check first.
What's the difference between polarised and ordinary tinted lenses?
A standard tint reduces overall brightness, while polarised lenses are designed specifically to cut reflected glare from surfaces like roads and water. Many people find polarised lenses more comfortable for driving and outdoor activities.
Are photochromic lenses a good alternative to a separate pair of sunglasses?
They can be, if you want one pair that adapts between indoors and outdoors. They darken in sunlight and clear indoors. They may not darken as much inside a car, so dedicated sunglasses can still suit frequent drivers — our optometrist can advise based on your needs.
Ready for sunglasses that protect and suit you? Book an appointment for an eye check, and let our team help you choose prescription or non-prescription sunglasses that fit your life.