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How to read SPH, CYL, AXIS, ADD, and PD before ordering glasses

How to read SPH, CYL, AXIS, ADD, and PD before ordering glasses

Best for: you have a written prescription and want to enter the numbers carefully at checkout.

A glasses prescription can look more intimidating than it is. The key is to copy each value into the matching field and not guess at missing information. A small typo in axis, sign, or PD can change how the lenses feel.

Quick fit notes

SPH is the main lens power

SPH, or sphere, is usually written with a plus or minus sign. A minus sign is commonly used for nearsighted correction; a plus sign is commonly used for farsighted correction. The sign matters. If your prescription says -2.00, do not enter +2.00.

CYL and AXIS travel together

Cylinder and axis are used for astigmatism correction. If your prescription has a CYL value, it usually needs an AXIS value as well. The axis is a number from 1 to 180. Do not add a degree symbol when entering it; just enter the number.

PD helps center the lenses

PD stands for pupillary distance. Some prescriptions show one PD number, and some show right and left PD separately. If you need help before checkout, use the prescription help page or contact support before placing the order.

At-a-glance guide

Field What it means Careful check
SPH Main focusing power Copy the plus or minus sign
CYL Astigmatism amount If present, check AXIS too
AXIS Astigmatism direction Must be between 1 and 180
ADD Near-reading addition Used for multifocal or reading needs
PD Pupil distance May be one number or two separate numbers
For general background, the National Eye Institute explains how eyeglasses correct refractive errors. Your eye care professional is still the best source for interpreting your own prescription. Read the reference.

Where to start on Framelune

If you are comparing styles, open women's eyeglasses, best sellers, and new arrivals in separate tabs. Save two or three frames that feel natural with your face, then narrow the choice by bridge comfort, frame width, and lens needs.

For prescription orders, take a minute to review your SPH, CYL, AXIS, ADD, and PD values before checkout. If anything looks unclear, use the help center or contact Framelune before placing the order.

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