What's New in Vision Care
Products
Custom-Made Eye Patches for Children With Amblyopia
PETROLIA, Ontario, Canada, March 2010 — If your child is wearing a patch each day for treatment of amblyopia or "lazy eye," consider these cute patches by Eye-Lids.
The patches are non-adhesive, reusable and hand-washable. They are reversible, too, meaning they can cover either the left or the right eye. They are designed to be worn on glasses with a nose piece. Pirate-style patches are available as well.
Eye-Lids come in a variety of pretty and fun fabrics, including patterns with cartoon characters, polka dots, animals and more. Please click here for closeups.
The company can take custom orders, too, if your child likes a particular color or character.
The fabric is cotton/polyester flannel, with a soft batten between the two layers.
Eye-Lids are available in three sizes: small (children under 3), medium (4-6 years old) and large (7-10 years old). For information on ordering, visit the Eye-Lids website.
Chic Eyewear Necklaces by Cinzia Designs
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., February 2010 — Cinzia Designs has debuted a new line of trendy eyewear necklaces called the ZIAs Collection. The handmade necklaces have an open pendant to hold readers or glasses when not in use.
The ZIAs Collection has unique and artistic necklace designs in colors ranging from bold to earthy.
Cinzia Designs released the collection to complement the company's spring Trendies collection of reading glasses.
More than 40 eyewear necklaces are available in the collection. Shown here are Red Velvet, Silhouette and Sloop Lime.
ZIAs can be purchased internationally at select retail stores and online.
Please click here for photos of these styles and others.
For Closeup Vision at Varying Distances, Reading Glasses
With Progressive Lenses
RIDGEFIELD, Conn., January 2010 — Here's an interesting new solution for people with near vision problems (which is pretty much all of us who are over 40): progressive reading glasses from Eschenbach Optik.
You may have noticed, especially when working at the computer, that the vision correction you need to see your keyboard isn't the same as the correction you need to see your monitor. It's because the keyboard and monitor are at two different distances from your eyes.
Eschenbach Optik addresses this problem with the MiniFrame 2, a progressive reader that increases in power by a full diopter from the top of the lens to the bottom.
So, for example, the 2.00 diopter pair has 1.00 diopter of magnification at the top of the lens, but increases gradually to 2.00 diopters at the bottom.
Other uses include viewing a monitor, keyboard and objects next to the computer, such as a printed document, as well as reading both regular and fine print in a newspaper or book.
The MiniFrame 2 comes in five different powers (1.00, 1.50, 2.00, 2.50 and 3.00 diopters) and two frame colors (gold and gunmetal). It's available from eye care practitioners nationwide.
Please click here for a closeup photo of the gunmetal style.
It's All Downhill for This New Fashion Statement From Gucci
PARSIPPANY, N.J., January 2010 — Gucci's new Eyeweb collection of sunglasses now includes fabulous ski goggles for the fashion-forward.
The goggles are unisex and come in either black or white, with the iconic Gucci green-red-green stripe on the stretch headband.
The lenses are anti-fog, with what the company calls its "Seal Ring" technology that maintains enough rigidity in the mask to keep cold out and warmth in, while preventing distortion of the visual field.
The goggles also offer complete UV protection and have a soft inner lining for comfort. They come with a soft carrying pouch.
You'll find Gucci ski goggles at Gucci stores, select optical retailers and online.
Please click here for closeup photos of both the black and the white versions.
LightGuard Wrap Post-Operative Eyewear Offers
High-Quality Protection for a Low Price
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif., December 2009 — Eye doctors recommend that after LASIK, cataract surgery or other eye procedures you protect your eyes from visible light, UV light and the elements until they heal.
LightGuard Wrap is a new product that does this at a price the manufacturer says is lower than that of similar products.
The eyewear reduces glare and provides maximum protection from harmful ultraviolet light. And its wraparound design minimizes air flow that can irritate sensitive eyes after surgery.
LightGuard Wrap lenses are treated for scratch resistance and anti-fogging. They have a smoke tint to reduce light intensity, great for eyes that are sensitive to light. The eyewear carries a lifetime limited warranty.
Please click here for a closeup photo.
FogShield Sport Towelettes Prevent Fogging for Eight Hours or More
ROCHESTER, N.Y., December 2009 — With just one application, FogShield Sport pre-moistened towelettes keep fog from forming on goggles and face shields all day, according to manufacturer Bausch & Lomb.
FogShield Sport wipes come in handy foil pouches and cost about $2 per application.
They work in extreme cold or heat and can be used for both glass and plastic lenses.
The proprietary formula was originally designed to work in harsh industrial settings and has been tested on firefighters, hazmat technicians and others.
In fact, the International Association of Hazardous Materials Technicians previously named it the Hazardous Materials Response Product of the Year.
Please click here for a closeup photo.
New Trendies Reading Glasses by Cinzia Designs
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz., December 2009 — Iced and Freeze are two of the newest styles in the Trendies Collection of reading glasses.
Trendies are affordable readers with plastic or metal frames and high-quality lenses in several powers. They come with color-coordinated triangular cases.
Iced is shown here in bronze/plum, while Freeze is shown in black/wine. Both come in other color combinations as well.
Cinzia Designs also offers cases, sunglasses, chains and other eyewear accessories, as well as cashmere wraps, bracelets and mini-handbags. You'll find the reading glasses in optical and other stores nationwide.
Please click here for a closeup photo.
FDA Approves Bepreve, a New Allergic Conjunctivitis Treatment
IRVINE, Calif., November 2009 — The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently approved a new prescription eye drop called Bepreve for treating ocular itching from allergic conjunctivitis. The eye drop is a non-sedating antihistamine used twice a day in patients as young as two years.
The FDA approval follows the completion of multiple clinical studies conducted by ISTA Pharmaceuticals, Inc. to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of Bepreve. The studies found that Bepreve provides quick and significant relief from itchy eyes, which affect more than 75 percent of allergy patients.
Bepreve is expected to be available by the end of 2009.
With Interchangeable Lenses, Wiley X Romer II Advanced Provides Ballistic Protection in All Light Conditions
LIVERMORE, Calif., October 2009 — Wiley X Romer II Advanced eyewear is for hunters and shooting sports enthusiasts who want a high level of eye protection and distortion-free vision in a comfortable and heat-resistant frame.
The frame is designed for easy switching between clear, smoke and light rust-colored lenses, so you can always choose the lens that's just right, even in changing light conditions. Yet the lenses stay securely in place to provide advanced protection when needed.
The lenses are made of shatterproof 2.00mm Selenite polycarbonate and have both scratch resistance and anti-fog coatings.
The eyewear is certified to withstand the impact of a .15 caliber steel fragment fired at 640-660 feet per second, meeting ANSI Z87.1-2003 High Velocity Impact, VO Ballistic Impact Test MIL-PRF-31013 standards.
The lenses also provide 100 percent UVA/UVB protection.
Wiley X Romer II Advanced eyewear comes with three sets of lenses, a zipper top nylon carrying case and a cleaning cloth. Wiley X makes a complete line of protective eyewear for outdoor activities such as hunting and motorcycling, as well as on-the-job safety.
Please click here for a closeup photo.
New Claritin Eye Soothes Allergy Eyes
KENILWORTH, N.J., October 2009 — The makers of Claritin have released an antihistamine eye drop called Claritin Eye to relieve itchy eyes caused by allergies.
The eye drops block the histamine that causes itchy eyes and can control the itch for up to 12 hours. Only one drop is needed in each eye. The drops are safe for children as young as 3 years old.
Itchy eyes are a bothersome symptom for many allergy sufferers and can be caused by both indoor and outdoor allergens, such as dust, mold, pollen, animal hair and dander.
The company, Schering-Plough Corporation, also launched a Facebook page with resources for allergy sufferers. On Facebook, users can upload photos and clear red eye in their pictures using the "Claritin Eye Makeover" application.
Claritin Eye is available without a prescription and can be purchased from most food and drug retailers in the eye care aisle.
Green View Reading Glasses Have Eco-Friendly Frames
SMITHFIELD, R.I., September 2009 — Green View over-the-counter reading glasses have 100 percent recycled materials in the plastic frames, with high-quality lenses and a renewable fiber case.
The new collection includes styles for men and women, with some unisex frames suitable for both.
The lenses are hard-coated, thin, scratch-resistant and designed to reduce distortion, according to the manufacturer. Most styles also have spring hinges for a comfortable fit.
You can find Green View reading glasses in various optical powers to suit your needs, in stores nationwide. Please click here for a closeup photo.
New Safety Goggle Fits Over Your Prescription Eyeglasses
SMITHFIELD, R.I., July 2009 — Uvex Stealth Over-the-Glass safety goggles protect your eyes — and your prescription eyeglasses — against impact, airborne particles, chemical splash and more.
You can use them at work or at home, and since they fit comfortably over your glasses, you don't need them custom made with a prescription.
Uvex Stealth OTG goggles have a flexible, elastomer body that conforms to facial contours for a gap-free fit. The lenses are wraparound, for good coverage and peripheral vision. The adjustable headband lets the goggles fit even with hard hats.
Lenses are available in clear, amber, standard gray and shade 3.0 and 5.0 welding tints with a dual coating called Dura-streme to protect against both fog and scratches. Lenses can be changed and replaced easily.
Please click here for a closeup photo.
Interactive Data Glasses: No Longer a Dream for the Future
DRESDEN, Germany, June 2009 — Scientists at the Fraunhofer Institute for Photonic Microsystems are developing a device for new interactive data glasses that would be the first to allow the wearer to open applications as well as view information or images. The device will enable eye tracking so that wearers can control content simply by moving their eyes.
Interactive Data Glasses by Fraunhofer IPMS.
Conventional data glasses (also called head-mounted displays) have been tested but typically are expensive, heavy and bulky. In this case, the researchers are using a computer chip that is inexpensive, small and light, as well as easy to produce.
The chip is placed behind the hinge of the eyeglass frame's temple. From the temple, the chip's microdisplay projects images onto the retina. To the eyeglass wearer, the image appears to be about a meter away. The device uses organic light-emitting diodes to produce enough luminosity so that images can be seen against contrasting backgrounds.
The researchers believe the interactive data glasses could increase efficiency for many industries, such as medical fields, because users would be able to consult information hands-free. For instance, operating surgeons could open and view patients' vital functions and X-ray images. Engineers could see construction drawings, and technicians could read installation instructions.
The scientists stated they are already working on the next developmental stage for the glasses.
New Pink Eye Treatment Launches
ROCHESTER, N.Y., June 2009 — Bausch & Lomb has launched Besivance, a topical eye drop treatment for bacterial conjunctivitis that is available by prescription.
Bacterial conjunctivitis symptoms include red eyes, swelling, itching, watering and a sticky discharge from the eyes. The condition often lasts one or two weeks, but it can easily come back, expecially among schoolchildren who don't take extra precautions during the infection.
In clinical trials, people using Besivance saw their infection disappear faster than those treated with a solution containing only a preservative.
According to Bausch & Lomb, the treatment is well tolerated in people 1 year old and older. Adverse reactions in fewer than 3 percent of clinical trial patients included eye redness, blurred vision, eye pain, irritation, itching and headache.
Advanced Vision Research Launches MacuTrition
WOBURN, Mass., March 2009 — MacuTrition is a new eye vitamin and mineral supplement formulated for potential benefits especially related to age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.
Based on scientific studies, the supplement includes AREDS formula antioxidants, fish-oil omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, green tea extract and tocotrienols (a form of vitamin E).
"By targeting oxidation, inflammation and angiogenesis, we take a multi-pronged approach to maintaining eye health, especially in those with diabetes and macular degeneration, including those at risk — i.e., family members," said Jeffrey P. Gilbard, MD, founder and CEO of Advanced Vision Research and clinical assistant professor at Harvard Medical School.
According to the company, each daily dose of MacuTrition has certain nutritional content similar to that found in a 2.8 oz. serving of wild coho salmon and three cups of green tea. The vitamin D content of MacuTrition is the same as the health benefit of spending 12 minutes a day in the sun.
Heat Therapy Goggles Included in Alodox Eye Care Kit
RICHMOND, Tex., January 2009 — Purchase of Alodox, an antibiotic and anti-inflammatory treatment for eye disease, now includes a free pair of moist heat therapy goggles and reusable heat packs from Eye Eco Inc. The heat therapy goggles used with warm water increase humidity and stimulate tear production to relieve dry eyes that can occur with inflammation.
The goggles also help prevent tear evaporation, which in turn maintains soothing moisture on the eye's surface. Accompanying heat packs, which first are boiled in water, are snapped inside the goggles to help provide moist heat for about 30 minutes at a time.
Alodox, available by prescription only, is taken orally as an antibiotic to help control bacteria associated with inflammatory eye disease.
Because the drug is used in low doses, the manufacturer (OcuSoft) says it typically has fewer side effects.
The drug may be used in treatment of conditions such as blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction that can lead to dry eye.
The convenience kit also includes pre-moistened antibacterial pads, eyelid cleanser and eyelid scrub, used for controlling bacteria that contribute to eye irritation.
New Stye Care Kit Provides Relief
TEMECULA, Calif., November 2008 — Stye pain and irritation can be relieved with this kit that includes a foam-lined eye cushion holding a warm, moistened pad in place against the closed eye.
An elastic band attachment helps free hands for other activities.
Other items in the kit by Eye Eco Inc. include reusable heat packs, wash bag and a sample of OcuSoft Lid Scrub Plus.
To use the kit, first you need to soak the moisture pad in a hot water bottle, squeeze and then place in the eye cushion.
Insert an activated heat pack, and then attach the cushion around the eye with the elastic band. Wear for at least 10 minutes.
Available at various partner outlets and from the company's Web site, the stye care kit can be used twice daily or as directed. Click here for close-up photo.
Blink Tears Treat Dry Eye Without Blurring Vision
SANTA ANA, Calif., April 2008 — Abbott Medical Optics (formerly Advanced Medical Optics) has introduced a new type of eye drop, Blink Tears, which treats dry eyes without accompanying blurring of vision.
Made of ingredients naturally found in the eye, Blink Tears stabilizes the eye's natural tear film and helps the eye retain moisture for up to 60 minutes following use.
AMO officials say the product thickens when the eye is open, to provide extra protection, and thins when the eyelid is shut.
Blink Tears eye drops are sold over-the-counter.
AMO says the dry eye formula differs from other treatments because of its ability to preserve vision clarity while providing longer lasting relief.
Click here for close-up photo.
Nutritional Formula May Help People With
"Dry" Macular Degeneration
ATLANTA, March 2008 — A special nutritional formula known as Tozal, aimed at preventing vision loss associated with early stage or "dry" macular degeneration, was introduced at the annual SECO International meeting hosted by the Southern Council of Optometrists.
The Tozal name (AmeriSciences, Houston) is derived from key ingredients of the nutritional formula, including taurine (amino acid), omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, antioxidants and lutein.
A small clinical study conducted at five different U.S. sites found that the nutritional formula helped maintain or improve vision in more than 75 percent of 37 individuals diagnosed with dry macular degeneration, an eye disease that can cause central vision loss. If macular degeneration progresses to the more advanced or "wet" form, central vision loss can be severe.
Study results were published in the February issue of the British journal BMC Ophthalmology. Click here for close-up photo.
Bausch & Lomb Acquires Soothe Lubricant Eye Drops
ROCHESTER, N.Y., August 2007 — Bausch & Lomb has announced its acquisition of the Soothe lubricant eye drop brand for dry eye from Alimera Sciences.
This includes the Soothe XP formula for over-the-counter sales.
The Soothe XP formula is designed to help re-establish the eye's protective oily or lipid layer by sealing in moisture and preventing evaporation.
Bausch & Lomb officials also said shipments have begun for a new, preservative-free Soothe formula, which rebuilds the tear film by retaining moisture on the eye's surface.
Click here for close-up photo.
Bausch & Lomb Introduces Ocuvite DF Eye Vitamin for Diabetics
BOSTON, July 2007 — Bausch & Lomb has introduced the Ocuvite DF eye vitamin supplement, which includes antioxidants to aid diabetics who must manage potentially high blood sugar levels.
The vitamin formula is designed to help reduce damage to the eye's blood vessels in diabetic retinopathy, associated with high blood sugar levels.
Genistein and alpha-lipoic acid are among antioxidants found in the new Ocuvite DF eye vitamin formula.
Click here for close-up photo.
Tandem's Dual Compartments Hold Sunglasses
and Prescription Eyewear
SAN LUIS OBISPO, Calif., March 2007 — Live Eyewear, which designed OveRx sunglasses to be worn over regular glasses, has introduced a convenient carrying case, the Tandem, with two compartments.
Prescription eyeglasses can be slid into one compartment lined with an internal hard shell for extra protection. OveRx sunglasses then can be placed in an oversized compartment on the reverse side.
Other items, including cleaning cloths or valuables, can be stored in the Tandem, which also has a belt clip. Click here for close-up photo.
Eyeglass Case Designed To Help Fund Foundation for Animal Rescue
PORTLAND, Ore., January 2007 — Half of proceeds from a newly introduced eyeglass case created by Amy Sacks Eyewear and Accessories will be donated for animal rescue and to help fund spaying and neutering for pets belonging to low income families.
The colorful eyeglass case depicting a love of animals was created to help commemorate the launch of a non-profit foundation for animal rescue, known as The Pixie Project. Pixie is the name of an abused mixed terrier once rescued by company founder Amy Sacks. Click here for close-up photo.
SteriLid Eyelid Cleanser Is Now Available Over the Counter
WOBURN, Mass., January 2007 — Advanced Vision Research Inc. announced in late 2006 that an antibacterial foam designed for maintaining eyelid hygiene, known as SteriLid Eyelid Cleanser, now can be sold over the counter without need of a prescription.
SteriLid is used to keep bacteria counts under control in the presence of eye conditions such as dry eye syndrome and blepharitis.
SteriLid also may be recommended as an advance treatment for patients scheduled to undergo eye surgery.
Click here for close-up photo.
Keep Track of Reading Glasses With Classy Amy Sacks Necklaces
PORTLAND, Ore., November 2006 — Beaded and glass necklaces newly added to the Amy Sacks Eyewear and Accessories line are a classy way to keep track of reading glasses, sunglasses, and frames.
In the beaded style, tiny seed beads are hand-stitched together to form larger beads suspended from 16-inch sterling silver chains. Beaded styles have turquoise, black, gray, khaki, blue, green, cream, brown, and olive color schemes to match any season.
Another handcrafted style features opaque glass rings formed into asymmetrical circles, available in colors of frost, slate, or avocado.
Click here for close-up photos of several styles.
Zaditor: Treatment for Itchy Eyes To Be Available Over the Counter
EAST HANOVER, N.J., October 2006 — A treatment for itchy eyes, known as Zaditor (ketotifen fumarate ophthalmic solution 0.025%), received FDA approval for sale over the counter.
Previously available only by prescription, the treatment from Novartis Pharmaceuticals is indicated for temporary relief of eye allergies caused by irritants including pollen, ragweed, and animal hair.
Novartis company officials say this product is longer lasting than others and can soothe eyes for up to 12 hours. The over-the-counter drops will be in stores in January 2007.
Click here for close-up photo of the Zaditor packaging.
Fat Cat 3-Way Eyewear Straps
If you're active and worried about losing expensive eyewear, consider the new Fat Cat strap from EK Ekcessories that hooks on at the temples of eyeglasses and sunglasses.
The Fat Cat strap for thicker eyeglass frames has a 3 mm cord and can be attached in three different ways. EK Ekcessories products are sold in many U.S. optical shops and sporting goods stores.
Click here for closeup photos of the three ways to attach the Fat Cat 3-Way strap.
Corinne McCormack Brings Out the Animal in Eyewear Cases
The 2005-2006 collection of eyeglass cases by Corinne McCormack walks on the wild side, with gorgeous croc leather looks, snake patterns, and colors fresh from the jungle. Shown below is a leopard-print slim hard case that fits easily in a handbag or pocket. The crocodile-look snap purse style comes in several colors, as does the triangular flap purse in a textured leather with a quilting pattern on the flap, shown here in bronze and a luscious sunset pink.
Corinne McCormack also creates stylish reading glasses you actually want to wear, plus eyeglass chains and other accessories that make great gifts. Look for her collection in better department stores and optical stores nationwide. Click here for closeups of these and other cases.
Rohto V. Eye Drops for a Refreshingly Cool Sensation
These eye drops were formulated to lubricate and whiten red, irritated eyes. And they deliver a cooling sensation, comparable to the way a mint tastes in the mouth.
Manufactured by The Mentholatum Company, a subsidiary of Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., one of the largest pharmaceutical companies in Japan, Rohto V. eye drops include the active ingredients Naphazoline hydrochloride (a redness reliever) and Polysorbate 80 (a lubricant). The drops are available at major retailers such as Wal-Mart.
The la LOOP Collection Holds Your Eyewear and Sunglasses in Style
la LOOP is a fashion-forward collection of jewelry-inspired chains and loops that hold your glasses, reading glasses, or sunglasses for you. You don't need a case, and you don't need to use your eyewear as a headband: just hang them on one of these fabulous necklaces, and they're always close by.
Choose from necklaces made of silk cord, leather cord, pearls, and beads of silver and semi-precious stones. There's even a chain version with links made of colorful acetate resin. You'll love the colors and styles.
Look for la LOOP eyewear necklaces at stores everywhere, or order them online from the la LOOP website. Click here for close-ups.
PreserVision Now in Easy-to-Swallow Soft Gels
PreserVision eye health nutritional supplement is now available in two easy-to-swallow soft gel versions. PreserVision Soft Gels AREDS Formula is taken twice a day (vs. the original tablet formula, taken four times a day) and provides the vitamins and minerals that were used in the supplement in the Age-Related Eye Disease Study. The study showed that those who were at the highest risk for developing advanced age-related macular degeneration lowered their risk by 25 percent when taking the supplement. According to manufacturer Bausch & Lomb, PreserVision AREDS Formula is the number one eye vitamin recommended by vitreoretinal ophthalmologists.
PreserVision Soft Gels Lutein Formula is also taken twice a day and replaces the beta-carotene in the original formula with lutein for general eye health. Both products are available nationwide. Click here for close-up.
Soothe Eye Drops: Multi-Dose Artificial Tears for Your Dry Eyes
Alimera Sciences has released Soothe Emollient Eye Drops, a multi-dose artificial tear product for dry eyes. The drops contain Restoryl, designed to re-establish the eye's protective lipid layer to reduce tear evaporation and seal in moisture.
According to the company, Soothe eye drops provide up to eight hours of comfort.
You can find Soothe lubricant eye drops in optical and other retail stores across the country. Click here for close-up.
Doggles: Great Eyewear Styles for Your Canine Friend
Does your pooch have Doggles? This specially designed eyewear for dogs is more than just fashionable: it protects dogs' eyes from airborne debris, ultraviolet light, and drying wind. It's great for dogs that can't resist poking their head out the car window, and also for those whose eyes tend to be dry.
New is this "racing flames" frame, available with the Interchangeable Lens System (ILS), which allows you to buy lenses in various colors, then change them for different lighting conditions (or fashion needs). Lenses are anti-fog, in shatter-resistant polycarbonate.
You can find Doggles frames in sizes to fit most dogs either online or in pet stores around the world. Click here for closeup photo.
Stylish Eyeglass Purses from Sax
You know the Sax brand of totes, purses, and other accessories. The company also makes sunglasses, reading glasses, eyewear chains, cases, and these specially designed clutches and purses.
The Eyeclutch has compact styling with a detachable leather strap. You can fit eyewear plus a cell phone and makeup. It comes in a ladybug print or solid colors. The Designer Eyeglass Purse comes in a vast array of solids and prints, has a detachable shoulder strap, small keychain and metal feet. Many Sax models are available in optical stores and many other retail stores across the nation. Click here for close-ups: Eyeclutch and Designer Eyeglass Purse.
Keep All Your Eyewear in the Eyewear Valet
The Eyewear Valet is a unique way to carry four pairs of eyeglasses, sunglasses, and reading glasses in one handy case. It's great for travelers or for people who just like to stay organized. You can also use the Eyewear Valet for jewelry, cosmetics, or other necessary objects. Made by optical accessories company Corinne McCormack, it is available in optical stores nationwide. Click here for close-ups of the Eyewear Valet: unfolded and folded.
Eyetop Centra: High-Tech Sunglasses for Multimedia Viewing
With a 24-bit color LCD screen in the lower center of one lens, these are not your usual sunglasses. Eyetop Centra sunglasses by Ingineo let you view a video, TV, photos from a camera or camcorder, and more. Integrated earplugs are attached to each temple so you can hear the sound with disturbing others and without having to use a separate headset.
To use, attach the sunglasses to the control unit that you can wear on a belt. Then plug them into most any device that has a video output, such as a DVD player, computer, or camera. Eyetop Centra sunglasses can be used in both dark and daylit environments, and they have adjustable nosepads, brightness, contrast, hue, and saturation. You can even rotate the optics assembly to place it over the center of your eye for the most comfort. Eyetop Centra is available online and in electronics stores. Click here for close-up view.
EK Ekcessories Offers Three-Way Retainers
to Keep Your Eyewear Safe
The Elite Three-Way Retainer lets you secure your eyeglasses or sunglasses in three different ways, using strong, 3mm cording. It comes with a hand-finished antique brass or pewter EK slider and is available in 18 different colors.
For boating, swimming, and other water sports, consider the new Three-Way Barrel Float Cat to prevent eyewear loss. It works for both adults and children, and the retainer has unique tubing that works great for straight-temple frames. The nylon 3mm cording comes in 16 color patterns, with barrel floats in black, blue, or yellow. EK Ekcessories products are available at optical shops and sporting goods stores across the country. Click here for close-up views.
Pretty Trays Keep Your Eyewear at Hand
If you're always losing your eyeglasses, reading glasses, or sunglasses, try placing them on these charming, hard-to-miss trays. Called Vision Things, they are made by a company called Decorative Things that uses a variety of fabric prints to adorn trays, bowls, and other tableware, plus office accessories and bath items such as soap dishes and wastebaskets. Patterns range from traditional (the company is a licensee of Colonial Williamsburg) to whimsical, mod to modern.
In addition to the eyeglass trays, new vision items include magnifying glasses, glasses hankies, eye pads, and eyeglass pouches. A "Pink Things" program uses proceeds from sales of pink-patterned items to give money to breast cancer research. Vision Things are available in optical and other stores.
Click here for close-up and more patterns.
SmartPLUG for Dry Eyes
One way of treating dry eyes is by inserting a small punctal plug into the tear duct, to reduce tear drainage from the eyes. Most plugs are made of rigid silicone, but recently approved by the FDA is a new type of plug made of acrylic. The SmartPLUG by Medennium is a rigid rod that, once inserted into the punctum, becomes soft and gel-like due to body heat. The plug molds itself to fit anyone's punctum, so measurement is unnecessary.
Nothing protrudes from the punctum, so you won't see the plug, rub it out, or experience irritation. Ask your eye doctor if the SmartPLUG is a good choice for your dry eyes. Read more about punctal plugs and dry eyes.
Multivitamin Designed to Protect the Optic Nerve
Since the optic nerve is vulnerable to several eye diseases, including glaucoma, ScienceBased Health has designed a nutraceutical to protect it by promoting ocular blood flow and boosting the eye's defenses.
Called Optic Nerve Formula, it contains antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, B-vitamins, Ginkgo biloba, and other ingredients that recent research indicates can play a role in good eye health.
It is available through eye care practitioners.
FogTech: Anti-Fogging with Staying Power
A new anti-fogging product gives lenses an especially long-lasting layer that the manufacturer says soaks up fog instantly before it can obscure vision. FogTech was designed to safely coat today's high-tech plastics and glass used in goggles, eyeglasses, sunglasses, and face shields.
FogTech is available from MotoSolutions and comes in a drop bottle or handy, single-use packets — great for when you're on the trail or the slopes.
Two New TheraTears Products for Dry Eyes
TheraTears Liquid Gel is the first preservative-free, electrolyte-balanced lubricant eye gel for nighttime use or for dry eye sufferers who need a longer-lasting protective film during the day. The company says the gel helps patients avoid the crusting and significant blurring sometimes experienced with other brands.
TheraTears Nutrition for Dry Eyes is a nutritional supplement designed for dry eyes. Containing EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA-enriched flaxseed oil, the softgel capsule is also fortified with vitamin E.
According to the company, the formula reduces eye surface inflammation, improves oil layer quality and increases aqueous tear quantity. Both products are available at eye care practitioner locations. Get more info. 
More New Products for the Eyes
Please click here for other new products:
[Page updated March 3, 2010]
- Similasan eye drops relieve and soothe dry eyes, pink eye and allergy eyes
- The patented electrolyte balance of TheraTears precisely matches the human tear film for dry eye relief. Save $2.00!
- Tears Again advanced Liposome Eyelid Spray is ideal for patients who have trouble using eye drops
- Tears Again Hydrate gels contain omega-3 fatty acids to treat dry eyes
Clinical Trials Related to Eye Diseases |
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