Performance Eyecare is the place for children’s glasses

With the kids going back to school, it’s time to bring them in for an eye exam and pick out any necessary eyewear to help him or her succeed this school year.

We understand kids can be picky about what they want to wear, but we’re confident your child will find the perfect pair of glasses at Performance Eyecare.

Here are the five trends in children’s eyewear:

  1. Designers have taken cool and classic designs that work for adults and scaled them down for kids. Don’t be surprised if your child wants eyeglasses that look a lot like yours.
  2. Branded or licensed eyewear lines grab a child’s attention. Fisher-Price, Hush Puppies, Stride Rite, Disney and Marvel Comics appeal to kids of all ages, but especially to very young children. Lines related to extreme sports (X-Games), basketball (Nike, Converse) and other sports are very popular with slightly older kids.
  3. Spring hinges, strong and flexible frame materials and impact-resistant polycarbonate or Trivex lenses all help protect your child’s eyes — as well as your financial investment in his or her eyewear.
  4. Don’t forget about sunglasses for kids. Protecting your child’s eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays may lower the risk of adult eye problems like cataracts later in life.
  5. Photochromic lenses made of impact-resistant polycarbonate are an excellent choice for kids who spend a lot of time outdoors. Clip-on sunglasses (or newer versions that magnetically attach to eyeglasses) also are good choices.
  6. For the child who is fast becoming a teenager, eyewear fashion is increasingly important. Designer eyeglass frames from Guess?, Calvin Klein and others are very appealing to “tweens.” Also popular are frames branded with apparel and accessories names such as Esprit, Nine West and Banana Republic, as well as celebrity brands like Hilary Duff and Thalia eyewear collections.

SUNGLASSES Protection and Quality

Summer is just around the corner: protect yourself with sunglasses

Our eyes, like our skin, need protection from the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays.

According to the National Eye Institute, sunglasses protect eyes from UV rays and can lessen the incidence of the following health conditions:

  • Cataracts, a clouding of the eyes’ lens which can blur vision. (An estimated 20% of cataracts cases are caused by extended UV exposure).
  • Macular degeneration, a disease resulting from damage to the retina which destroys central vision or our ability to focus straight ahead with acute detail. (Macular degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in the United States).

Eye care protection

Sunglasses are the simplest and single-most effective method of eye protection; coupled with polarized lenses which contain reflective surfaces can offer many of the following benefits:

  • Elimination of glare
  • Neutralization and blocking of most UV rays
  • Stylish comfort and quality frames
  • Protection of sensitive eye tissue

Quality Sunglass Frames and Lenses

Sunglasses containing polarized lenses can block multiple ultraviolet rays and help shield sensitive eye tissue from the sun. At Performance Eyecare, we offer a wide selection of designer sunglass frames including Maui Jim. Maui Jim developed PolarizedPlus2®, a special lens technology which provides nearly 100% protection from harmful UV rays. We also offer waterproof, anti-reflective lenses with an option of four, color polarizing lenses that block light reflection and glare to produce a crisper, sharper view. Our sunglasses are available in prescription and non-prescription lenses as well as four, distinct lens material types to provide individuals with maximum flexibility to select lenses for high performance sports or everyday wear.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment for quality eye care services and to view our selection of frames.

PeC has the latest trends in performance sunglasses

Performance EyeCare Illinois Sport Sunglasses

The interest in performance-oriented sunglasses has surged in recent years, as well as outdoor activities such as mountain biking, snowboarding, rock climbing, kayaking, skiing, golfing and in-line skating.

The boom in outdoor sports activities like mountain biking, snowboarding, rock climbing, kayaking, skiing, golfing and in-line skating has also created a demand for sports- and performance-oriented sunglasses.

These special-purpose sunglasses are designed to be exceptionally light and comfortable, able to withstand extreme conditions and stay comfortably in place during any activity.

Lenses

Perhaps the most important aspect of effective sports sunwear is the optical quality and visual enhancement properties of the lenses. In particular, sports and performance lenses are available in a wide variety of tints to modify light in certain ways to enhance contrast. This allows you to see certain objects (a tennis ball, for example) with greater clarity to enhance your reaction time.

Polycarbonate lenses are the lens of choice for most sport sunglasses because they are lightweight, super strong and more impact-resistant than lenses made of other materials.

Polarized lenses are also in demand, because they reduce glare from light reflecting off flat surfaces such as water or a field of snow. There is, however, some debate about the advisability of polarized lenses for sports like downhill and mogul skiing, since seeing sunlight reflecting from icy patches on the slopes is often beneficial.

Frames

The frames for performance and sport sunglasses are made of lightweight and durable materials such as polyamide, which keeps its shape even under stress. Styles are typically aerodynamic, with sleek lines. No-slip temple grips and nose pads are popular features to help keep the eyewear in place despite wearer perspiration during the heat of competition.

What’s your sport?

Each sport has its own unique visual requirements, which has led to the development of sport-specific sunglasses. Frames and lenses are now available that are targeted specifically to the golfer, the cyclist, the boater, the rock climber and so on.

For example, a certain lens tint might help a golfer notice subtle changes in the direction of the blades of grass on a green that could affect the line of their putt, while a completely different tint might be better to help a hunter see the contrast of a flying bird against an overcast sky.

If you prefer to be a Jack (or Jill) of all sports, there are also multipurpose sports sunglasses that feature interchangeable lenses with different tints for different sports and lighting conditions.

For more information on prescription sunglasses, visit your local Performance Eyecare location!

Adult Sunglasses at Performance Eyecare

Performance Eyecare St. Louis

While summer is winding down, it’s important to continue to protect your eyes with UV-blocking sunglasses, such as ones that you can find at Performance Eyecare.

As noted by GetEyeSmart.org, we often spend more time in the sun during the summer which increases our chances of developing cataracts and growths in the eye, including cancer. This risk also applies to those who go to tanning beds for their bronze look.

Do you remember that brightness when the sun reflected off a fresh snowfall six months ago? Well, that can cause photokeratitis, which is responsible for snow blindness. This same effect can happen when you’re at the beach or a pool as the sun reflects off the sand or water. This is why it’s always important to wear UV-blocking glasses when you’re out in the sun.

A survey conducted by the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), only about half of people who wear sunglasses say they check the UV rating before picking out their pair. The AAO recommends the following:

1. Wear sunglasses labeled as 100% UV protection.

It’s important to wear glasses that protect both UV-A and UV-B rays and are labeled either as UV400 or 100% UV protection.

2. Wear a hat along with your glasses

This is self-explanatory as a hat can help keep the sun away from your eyes. Clouds don’t block UV light, so sunglasses are important to wear even on cloudy days.  And remember that sun rays are strong. So strong they can pass through haze and clouds. Remember: sun damage can happen at any time of year.

3. Stay inside during UV-intense times

The sun’s light is strongest mid-day to early afternoon, at higher altitudes, and when reflected off of water, ice or snow. It’s important to remember this when you leave the house.

As Performance Eyecare, we offer designer frame sunglasses that will not only look stylish on you, but more importantly protect your vision from the sun’s harmful rays.

Protect Eyes from UV Rays

Ultraviolet rays are a danger to skin and eyes year-round. They play a contributing factor to skin damage, skin cancer and eye disorders such as cataracts. It’s important to keep in mind with kids out of school and outdoor activities planned, especially during the summer months.

“The more time you spend outdoors without protecting your eyes, the greater your risk for ocular damage,” says Dr. James Winnick, an optometrist. Rather than avoid the problem entirely by seeking refuge inside, take steps to mitigate your risk in the sun.

Consider Risk Factors

While all people need to protect their eyes from UV radiation, some populations are more sensitive than others to the sun. For example, children don’t yet have the natural protection in their eyes that adults have. That means they get most of their exposure before they are 18 years old.

Experts say it doesn’t matter who you are, protecting your eyes outdoors is crucial.

Reflecting Light is a Concern

Sunlight is reflected off water, sidewalks, buildings — almost everything — and it goes in every direction. While sunglasses and photochromic lenses protect from UV light passing through the front of the lenses, a new trend in eye protection takes on the back side of lenses as well.

A special anti-reflective treatment can now be added to the back of lenses that helps prevent UV radiation from reflecting off of them and into your eyes. The great news is that some lens brands, like UNITY, offer this “backside UV” treatment at no additional cost depending on the options you choose for your new photochromic lenses.

Don’t wait for UV exposure to get the best of your eye health. Just as you use sunblock, you should have some protection for your eyes throughout the day. This May, take steps to better protect your family.

Sunglasses at Performance Eyecare

At Performance Eyecare, we carry over 700 pairs of high quality and designer eyeglasses and sunglasses in our state-of-the-art optical centers in St. Louis and the Metro East St. Louis, Illinois areas. We have eyeglasses of all price ranges, including high-end fashion frames made from the latest materials.

Some of the designer lines we carry include: Maui Jim, Fossil, X-Games, Lafont, L.A. Eyeworks, Tom Ford, Armani Exchange, Michael Kors, Callaway, Oliver Peoples, Jaguar, Silhouette, OGI and Tom Davies.

All of our eyeglasses are covered by an unconditional warranty and we always stand behind every pair of eyeglasses should you not be completely satisfied.

Click here to schedule an appointment!

Summer Fashion Trends

Performance Eyecare has the summer fashion trends in sunglasses. Looking to go to the beach or head on vaca? Stand out from the crowd with the latest summer trends in sunglasses.

There’s a style for everyone this summer from mirrored lens to rounded, extra-large frames to acetate semi-sheer frames. Those styles along with sculpture-like, ombre frames, mannish-styled, vintage inspired and edgy silhouettes are in this season.

Here’s what’s “in”:

Rounded frames

Round-shaped sunglasses have become popular recently and were highlighted at a variety of recent fashion shows.

Classic Cat Eye

These fashionable glasses are a blast from the past. The vintage-inspired are popular in women for the bold colors but mostly the cat-eye shape.

Oversized frames

Oversized frames are a quick way to make a fashion statement. The thick frame version of this style is extremely popular and offers a classy and trendy look that is bound to turn heads.

Other ‘in’ styles

  • Thick frames – Super thick frames are definitely in this season and come in a variety of fun shapes and classy looks.
  • Clear frames – White or light-colored rims is the one of the women’s fashion trends of 2014.
  • Mirrored lens – These add a splash of color and shine to any outfit.
  • Prints on frames – A classic pair of sunglasses couldn’t be trendier with printed or patterned frames.

Eyeglasses for the busy lifestyle

Man sitting at desk holding documents, side view

Do you use the same pair of glasses for everything you do, or do you own a pair of specialty eyeglasses designed for specific tasks?

“One size fits all” is true in some situations, but it’s unlikely that one pair of eyeglasses is suitable in every situation, such as when you’re sitting at the computer or driving a vehicle.

The most important reasons for purchasing specialty eyewear, according to a survey by The Vision Council, include:

  • For a specific activity such as computer use, work, hobbies, sports or driving.
  • To see better in general.
  • For safety reasons to protect the eyes from harm while playing sports.
  • For cosmetic reasons.

Computer Glasses

You are at an increased risk of developing eye strain and other symptoms with the more time you spend sitting at a computer. This is the result of focusing on a very specific area for a long period of time. The computer screen can tire the eyes more quickly than reading a book or newspaper.

Computer glasses are designed for intermediate and close-up distances and will help you avoid eye strain.

Work and Hobbies

If you wear bifocals, you may realize that you have to tip your head back to use the reading zone in the bottom of the glasses. That is unless what you’re reading is in your lap.

You can purchase special work glasses that have the reading segment placed higher in the lenses. Special bifocals and trifocals for work-related tasks are called occupational lenses.

A separate pair of reading glasses might be helpful if some of your hobbies include beading, needlepoint, crafting or anything that requires intense focus at close distances.

Then there is safety glasses that can protect your eyes while working with hand and power tools.

Sports Eyewear

You can improve your visual acuity on the golf course or tennis court by changing the lens tint of sunglasses. Sport-specific eyewear can enhance performance by improving visual clarity while protecting your eyes from injury.

Driving Glasses

There are two categories when it comes to driving glasses: sunglasses designed for driving and prescription eyeglasses.

Sunglasses for driving have polarized lenses that reduce glare and make it easier to see in bright light.

Prescription eyewear for driving includes an appropriate distance prescription and lenses with an anti-reflective coating. This coating reduces glare from light off the front and back of your lenses and allows more light to enter your eyes for better vision when driving at night.

Safety Eyewear

Many people buy specialty eyewear for increased safety, such as safety glasses, sports goggles or shooting glasses.

Safety eyewear is made of ultra-durable materials and provides more coverage than regular glasses.

You can get the latest fashionable specialty eyeglasses at Performance Eyecare. Our team will work with you to discover which prescription works best and looks best so you can see safely in your everyday tasks.

New Office Location: Alton, Illinois

Performance Eyecare is proud to announce the opening of a new office in Alton, Illinois on July 01, 2016.

With the addition of this new office to our eye care practice, Performance Eyecare can provide expert eye care services in three primary locations with a wide variety of hours to afford patients with maximum scheduling flexibility.

  • Alton, Illinois Office | 2865 Homer Adams Parkway,, Alton IL, 62002 | 618-465-1654
  • St. Louis, Missouri Office | 12536-B Olive Blvd. Creve Coeur, MO, 63141 | 314-878-1377
  • Swansea, Illinois Office | 4111 North Illinois St., Swansea, IL, 62226 | 618-234-3053

We will offer the same quality products and services at our new Alton office which are also provided in our St. Louis, Alton and Swansea offices:

High Tech Exams

Our services include high-tech exams which use digital cameras to view interior eye tissue to detect potential disease and evaluate the condition of the eye. Our doctors also use advanced glaucoma testing by instilling eye drops to determine eye pressure rather than less effective air puff examinations.

Children’s Eye Care

Performance Eyecare offers children’s eye examinations and has a wide selection of frame to select from. In addition to eye glasses, we also offer contact lens fittings for children as early as seven or eight years of age.

Vision Retainer Shaping System

One of the premier services that we offer is the Vision Retainer Shaping System, or VRSS. The VRSS consists of a procedure where near-sighted patients are fitted with a retainer which is worn at night to gently and incrementally reshape the cornea to eliminate or reduce nearsightedness or astigmatism. With consistent, nightly use, proper fitting and care patients will not require the use of contact lenses nor eyeglasses during waking hours.

Eyeglasses, Designer Frames, and Contact Lenses

We offer high quality, designer frames such as: Kate Spade, Oakley, Marc Jacobs, Michael Kors, Tom Davies, OGA, Tom Ford, Maui Jim and OGI. In addition to high quality frames, Performance Eyecare maintains a state-of-the-art laboratory to enable patients to enjoy same day service for many eyeglass frames, lenses and contact lenses.
We look forward to offering you our signature, quality products and eye care services consisting of: experience professionals at multiple locations, high-tech, eye examinations, designer frames, contact lenses, and same-day service for frames and lenses. Contact us today at a location nearest you to obtain optimum eye care services from Performance Eyecare.

March Madness 2016

Save During March Madness

We sent out special gift cards in the mail for customer’s to receive $150 off their next purchase before March 31, 2016. But, we decided that wasn’t enough madness and wanted to extend the offer it to anyone who visits our website, or Facebook Page! If you would like to save on designer computer glasses, reading glasses, sewing glasses, driving glasses or even if you are looking for a spare pair of eyeglasses then this is the deal perfect for you!

Please note that this offer is not valid on contact lenses, nor does this offer qualify for redeemable refunds on previous purchases. For questions about this promotion, or for inquiries as to inventory please call us at 314-380-4129 for our St. Louis location, or 618-223-6281 for our Swansea location.

As always, you can make an appointment online to see one of our eye care doctors, or contact us using our online form.

Missing Summer Already?

We have a sale worth seeing!

If you are already dreading the cold, snowy winter days ahead of us; and instead are dreaming of the sun-kissed afternoons that summer brought, you are in luck! We have a special going on that is sure to brighten even the coldest of winter days. Now, through December 31st all of the sunglasses at Performance Eyecare are on sale! The good news is we have several hundreds of sunglass frames to choose from in both our Swansea & St. Louis locations. Not only do we have a selection like you wouldn’t believe, we also carry top of the line name brands such as Callaway, Oakley, Maui Jim, Kate Spade, Wiley X, Nike & Tom Ford.

Performance Eye Care, Sunglasses

Keep in mind that the health of your eyes shouldn’t take a back seat because the cold months can be just as dangerous as the summer ones. Sunglasses not only help protect your eyes from the reflective rays off of the snow..but also:

  1. Decrease Dry-Eye Problems
  2. Reduce Glare
  3. Less Eyestrain From Squinting
  4. Protective Layer From Debris
  5. Visual Appeal

That being said, make an appointment today with Dr. Dirk, or Dr. Cuff and stuff your stocking with the unexpected – vision and stylish sunglasses to go with it!