We’ve all been there – spent too much in December only to be left scrambling for the essentials come January. Since we understand how important eye-health is, we want to take away one stress…by offering our customers a New Year Savings Club!
It’s easy – simply pick the glasses you’d like and break the payments up into 5, 10 or even 15 weeks instalments.
Take breaks when you need or pay in full at any time so you’re always in control.. This takes you right through the festive period and ensures that, when January comes, you can continue to enjoy great eye-care without the stress of paying for it!
Joining couldn't be easier - in fact, there's just three simple steps:
1.Set up an account with a member of the IntelliSight team
2.Make regular deposits for the remainder of the year
3.In January spend your saved cash on new glasses, contact lenses, check-ups or anything else in-store!
Check out the table below to find out what you need to save!
Terms and conditions
Any products or services must be paid for in full, either through savings club contributions, online or in-store, before they can be
accessed. The January Savings Club is not a regulated investment or interest bearing account; it can be used to build up a sum of money over time for the purpose of purchasing glasses or contact lenses from IntelliSight Opticians in the future. You will not be rewarded with any form of interest on the balance of contributions in the savings club. It is recommended that you keep track of contributions into the savings club and that remain aware of the ongoing balance to ensure that you are on target to accumulate the intended amount. The Financial Services Compensation Scheme (FSCS) does not apply to this savings club product. Money paid into the savings club across one year is intended to be redeemed in January of the following year. Any customers with money still in savings accounts after January 30th will be contacted to redeem their savings against a purchase. Savings must be used no later than 12 months after the date on which the original deposit was made.
This offer may be withdrawn at manager's discretion without prior notice. Terms and conditions apply.
As the dark nights draw in and thoughts turn to cosy jumpers, leaves falling and pumpkin-spiced everything, we’re here with our latest Facebook Live video, featuring a random background extra, and some top tips to help everyone ensure they are being eye-safe in autumn and winter.
First up – do you suffer from headaches going to the cinema? Of course, it could be down to the special effects or increasingly complicated plots, but for the most part those headaches are down to the severe contrast between the light of the screen and the dark of the theatre. The same can apply to TV screens and tablets in the darker nights as the difference between the room and the big-screen TVs can increase what is commonly known as ‘contrast glare’ and is a leading contributor to bad heads.
Luckily the solution is fairly easy, simply ensure the room is lit up (don’t worry we’re not talking our testing room levels of light!) The closer you can get the light in the room to resemble the brightness of the TV the less you run the risk of headaches happening.
Of course, if headaches are happening on a regular basis it is always worth getting checked with a medical professional.
Noticed your eyes are generally worse in winter? There’s nothing to worry about, in fact it’s simply your eyes reacting to the natural light changes and could be an indication that you require some form of reading glasses. If this sounds a bit like you feel free to pop in-store and we’ll help you get to the bottom of it.
Finally, we also talked driving in the dark, anti-reflection treatments and the best sunglasses for ski-ing and why they matter come winter!
As you can see another jam-packed video. If you have a topic you’d like us to cover in future, please feel free to drop us a line or follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or now YouTube – thanks as always to all our viewers and we always look forward to seeing you, just look for the black and orange store 😊
If you’re anything like our team here at IntelliSight you’ll love any excuse to dress-up, especially Halloween!
Scary make-up, witches’ hats and, increasingly, fake contact lenses that can give any costume an extra oomph. The problem is, while these contacts may be fun for a few hours at a party, they can cause problems that can last a lifetime.
Unless purchased from a registered optometrist the chances are your contact lenses will be uncomfortable, as they’re not allowing oxygen to flow to your eye, could be full of germs – a massive 26% house bacteria – and any contact lens professional worth their salt will not provide you with any solutions or aids for such contacts as they will then assume legal responsibility.
The good news is we can still help you look creepy!
IntelliSight, or almost all registered opticians, can obtain cosmetic contact lenses that are safe, bacteria-free and we will help you to handle and care for them, leaving you safe to enjoy a spooky but safe Halloween.
Cosmetic contact lenses, and the damage they can cause, was just one of the topics covered in our last live cast – broadcast simultaneously on Twitter and Facebook! Also included, if you want a creepy tale to tell at your Halloween story why not also check out the true story of the 27 lenses at the start of the cast….
And don’t forget to visit us at Facebook or Twitter for a live broadcast on Friday at 1.30pm to find out all about looking after your eyes in autumn and winter!
As anyone who follows us on social media (Twitter, Facebook and Instagram!) will know, last week was National Eye Health Week, bringing with it a fab week full of updates, games and information all aimed at helping people keep their eyes in tip top shape!
In case you missed out on any, please check out our quick catch-up guide to help keep your eyes happy and healthy!
Monday – Importance of eye tests
You may think sight tests are simply a pre-cursor to glasses and contact lenses but they serve a much bigger purpose. Eye tests can detect a wide range of common eye conditions; from high blood pressure to raised cholesterol to diabetes and stroke risks.
On average, most people will need their eyes checking every two years but in some cases we may need you to come in more frequently, particularly if you are diabetic, over 70 or have a family history of glaucoma.
From keeping children’s eyes healthy with regular checks and plenty of fresh air (guidelines recommend at least an hour outside a day) to check-ups for the over-60s to help maintain healthy eyes.
Leading on nicely from eye care for all ages was a theme related to one of the most common eye complaints for over-60s. Glaucoma is a condition that affects peripheral vision, increasing pressure inside the eye and on the optical nerve.
Although it can strike at any age, it is most common in the over-70s and can lead to sight loss if left untreated. Early warning symptoms can be mild so it is very important to get regular check-ups. Find out more at http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Glaucoma/Pages/Introduction.aspx
Thursday – Being screen smart
From office life to smart phones and tablets, many of us are spending large portions of our day sat in front of a screen. Whilst screen time might be a necessary part of life, it is important to recognise the toll all this time can take on your eye health.
Itchy, sore eyes, blurring, headaches and trouble accurately perceiving colours are all issues that can be caused by not taking regular breaks. To be ‘screen smart’ try following the 20-20-20 rule – look away from your screen every 20 minutes, for at least 20 seconds, at an object 20 feet away!
With summer over it’s time to put away the sunnies and forget about UV protection for another 6 months yes? Well…Not exactly!
Whilst it may feel weaker and be less frequent, autumnal sun can expose you to just as much danger of cataracts and AMD as any day summer can throw at you, if not more, thanks for the trajectory of the rays when the sun is down low.
To check if you need to be UV aware simply take the shadow test! If your shadow is shorter than you, you need to take steps to protect yourself – hats, glasses and, of course, UV protective lenses! Find out more at http://www.visionmatters.org.uk/looking-after-your-eyes/autumnal-uv-advice and check out our in-store sale for 40% off sunglasses suitable for anything Autumn can throw at you.
Saturday – Nutrition and the eye
Aha – remember our sneaky live Friday Facebook video on this topic? If you missed it, including the infamous carrot toss, check it out here!
While we hate to burst the bubbles about eating carrots to see in the dark (although they are very healthy, it’s a myth) there are a number of yummy foods that can aid eye health; they include oranges, oily fish, any leafy greens such as spinach or kale, eggs and tomatoes – which are even better when tinned or turned to puree due to the increase in lycopene!
It is estimated that 1 in 7 adults in the UK still smoke, with each of them breathing in over 4,000 chemicals that can damage blood vessels, interfere with tear production and affect your cornea’s health.
Smoking can also make you four times more likely to suffer Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) and put you at risk of developing cataracts, thyroid eye disease and colour vision defects…In other words, smoking and eyes go together as well as fish and mint ice-cream!
Clothes, fridge freezers, even new cars – you can now shop online for almost everything, including glasses. However, when it comes to purchasing eyewear, from bespoke designer frames to children’s glasses, it can leave a lot of people nervous. In our latest post we look at some of the most common queries around buying glasses online and how IntelliSight can help.
What’s the biggest difference between buying online and buying in-store?
There are, of course, some key differences between buying online and in-store; From finding styles that suit you to having glasses resized to fit to ensuring they arrive safely through the post. We aim to make the process as smooth as possible, from our handy filters to narrow down the perfect pair and our refund policy. Our experts are always available via phone, email and social media and any glasses purchased online can be brought in-store to be fitted and adjusted as needed.
How do I know if the style will suit me?
As anyone who sports spectacles knows, they can have a dramatic impact on the way you look and it’s important to get the right frame. There are countless sites online offering style advice for different face shapes and once you know the style that suits you can use our style filter to find the frames that fit.
You’ll also have a huge choice of different colours, patterns and even materials(!) to choose from in IntelliSight’s bespoke frames selections; From Christian Lacroix cat-eye frames to frames made of wood or leather, frames on springs with instant snapback and, of course, our sporty Julbo range.
What if I change my mind?
All of glasses on the IntelliSight website can be returned and refunded within 14 days, and with free delivery on order over £50 you are free to play around with different options.
I have a very specific prescription from another opticians, can I still order via IntelliSight?
Of course! The IntelliSight website features a number of unique designer frames and brands that can’t be found at big high-street chains (including our new Dennis Taylor range!) so customers will often visit us who have prescriptions from elsewhere (although we do eye-tests too 😉 )
All we ask to complete such an order is that you have a written prescription that has been given to you by a suitably qualified optometrist within the last 24 months, within the expiry period of the prescription, or within the last 12 months if you are aged 70+.
In exceptional circumstances, we may need to arrange a free face-to-face consultation with you or request you post a copy of your written prescription. To ensure the glasses are suitable we may also ask you to obtain a pupillary distance measurement, although we do have assumed values as part of our online service.
I don’t have a prescription but I love some of the styles online – can I order them still?
The trend for wearing glasses minus prescription lenses shows no signs of slowing down and, with such funky styles available, we don’t blame you for wanting to try them out. Whether you’re keen on a new look, completing a cosplay costume or heading to a fancy dress event and want the edge on your look - all of our frames are available with clear glass, giving you all of the style with none of the hassle.
Be sure to check out our huge range of sunglasses too, all available in non-prescription options too!
So there you have it, hopefully we’ve answered your questions about purchasing glasses online, take a look at our online range or, if you’d like to know more get in contact with our team today!
Glaucoma is a treatable disease but early detection is key! A huge thanks to our friends at Zetland FM, right here in Redcar, for helping us spread the word about the benefits of regular eye tests. We have walk-in appointments available so if you could do with a check-in come and pay us a visit - just look for the orange and black store!
Check out the full interview with Julie and Julie (!) here:
In my Teesside practice I hear a lot about varifocals. I hear a great deal about what varifocals are like from those who don't wear them. And if I wasn't a varifocalglasses wearermyself I'd definitely be reluctant to try them out if I went by the horror stories that are out there.
The truth, thankfully, is a lot less horrific and a lot more useful than the urban myths would have us believe.
What are varifocals?
They're basically your distance glasses prescription (if you need one) in the top of the lens and your reading glasses prescription in the bottom of the lens. And in between the focus moves gradually from top to bottom, distance to reading. So in practical everyday use, the top half is clear for watching TV and the focus gradually comes in so that halfway down the lens you can see a PC screen and the bottom of the lens is for book reading distance. Pretty simple. Pretty useful.
Keep losing your glasses?
If you wear reading glasses, think about how much time you waste in the day looking for them. You're in the kitchen and you need to read some cooking instructions and your reading glasses are upstairs in the bedroom so you have to go and get them....or you snuggle up for the evening in bed to read your book and you've left your darned glasses by the chair in the living room....or you spend an hour looking for them because you just need to see and they were on your head all the time!!!!!
Now imagine how much easier things would be and how much time you would save if you were able to see long distance, close and in between all the time. Varifocals can make that happen.
Varifocals provide totally seamless, comfortable vision
Varifocals have changed a great deal in the past ten years or so; the horror stories no longer apply. They are now easier to wear than they have ever been with digital technology controlling the power at every precise point on the lens.
They give the vast majority of people totally seamless, comfortable vision. You just basically put them on and see! It just becomes another thing you don't have to worry about. And I don't know about you, but I have tons of other things on my mind, and not having to worry and waste time looking for glasses is amazing.
See for yourself
At IntelliSight Opticians, we are SO confident about how easy varifocals are to wear that we give a 'no quibble, no fuss' 30 day guarantee. If you try them and you aren't happy with them we'll refund your money. Simple as that.
So what are you waiting for – contact us now to arrange a consultation with one of our varifocals glasses specialists.
About Us
As a leading Teesside opticians, IntelliSight always strives for that alternative perspective.
With over 40 years of combined optical experience in the team, we are passionate about providing a first-class customer service - a willingness to go that extra mile. Not because the business expects it, and the service is delivered begrudgingly; but because there is a genuine empathy with every single person that comes through the door, an empathy that really shows.
Varifocals are just one of a wide range of products and services we offer. For a free no obligation consultation, please call 01642 450982 now or email info@intellisightopticians.co.uk.
Ouch! Nobody wants to injure their eyes, but unfortunately, sometimes it happens. Eye injuries occur in many different settings, including at work, at home or while playing sports.
Some common kinds of eye injuries include:
•Blows to the eye – i.e. getting hit with a fist, elbow or ball
•Foreign bodies – i.e. small pieces of grit, sawdust or metal entering the eye
•Scratches and abrasions – i.e. from fingernails, tree branches or bushes
•Chemical burns – i.e. exposure to cleaning products like bleach
•Radiation exposure – i.e. ultraviolet (UV) light from the sun
•Penetration or cutting – i.e. cuts from glass or projectiles from tools or machinery
Wearing contact lenses incorrectly can also cause injury to the eyes, especially if they’re dirty or not sterile, don’t fit you properly or you have worn them for too long.
So what can you do if you’re suffered an injury to your eye? Thankfully, the majority of eye injuries don’t usually require medical treatment and can clear up within 24 hours with appropriate self-care at home. If you experience any discomfort, taking painkillers like ibuprofen or paracetamol may be of help. If you are concerned, or still experience symptoms after 24 hours, please contact your GP or optician.
If you have loose particles or irritants in your eyes, flushing it with an eyewash or clean water for 10 to 15 minutes is recommended. If you wear contact lenses, remove them before you begin flushing your eye(s).
To flush your eyes:
•Sit down and slant your head so your injured eye is lower than the other eye, ideally over a sink or bathtub
•Use a glass or cupped handed to repeatedly pour water across the injured eye from the bridge of your nose
•If both of your eyes are affected, tile your head back, keeping both eyes level with each other and use the technique above to flush both eyes
•If you have access to a shower, aim a gentle stream of warm water just above the affected eye (or at your forehead if both eyes are affected) and hold your eyes open while you flush them
•If you were working outside, you can also use a garden hose on a low setting to flush your eyes
All eye injuries caused by exposure to chemicals should be seen by an eye doctor as soon as possible after you’ve flushed it out. You should also seek medical advice if any foreign bodies remain in the eye following flushing. Do not try to remove objects stuck in your eye yourself; as you may unintentionally cause further damage.
You should immediately visit your local A&E department if you have:
•Persistent or severe pain in your eye(s)
•A decrease in your vision or double vision
•Visible blood in your eye
•Deep cuts around your eye
•Pain when you’re exposed to a bright light
•Flashes, spots, halos or shadows in your field of vision
•Foreign particles that cannot be washed out
•An irregularly shaped pupil
•Your eyeball is protruding from your eye socket
As with many things though, prevention is the best precaution – where possible, you should always wear appropriate eye protection, for example wearing safety glasses if you work with machinery or power tools or wearing a protective mask during contact sports. You should also follow all instructions to ensure you use contact lenses in a safe and hygienic manner.
Dry eye syndrome (also known as keratoconjunctivitis) is a common condition that occurs when the eyes don’t produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly; causing swollen, red and irritated eyes.
The symptoms of dry eye syndrome tend to be mild for most people, however more severe cases can be painful and lead to many complications. These symptoms usually affect both of the eyes and can include:
•Burning and/or red eyes
•Eyelids that are stuck together upon waking up
•Temporarily blurred vision which can be improved by blinking
•Feelings of dryness, soreness or grittiness which can worsen throughout the day
•Watering eyes – which occurs if the eye tries to relieve the irritation by producing more tears
You should see your high-street optician if you have mild but persistent symptoms of dry eye symptoms. We can examine your eyes to determine if your dry eye is caused by an underlying condition or was caused by external factors. In cases of severe dry eye, we can refer you to an eye specialist at your local hospital.
Mild symptoms can be relieved via the use of lubricating eye drops. We stock a range of different Hycosan eye drops both in-store and in our online shop – including Hycosan, Hycosan Fresh and Hycosan Extra. These eye drops are commonly known as artificial tears; as they are applied to the eye in order to replace the missing water in the tear film and thus helps to make your eyes feel less dry and reduce irritation.
So what causes dry eye syndrome? There are many external factors as well as underlying medical conditions that can interrupt the complex tear production process. Some common causes include:
•Wearing contact lenses
•Following laser eye surgery
•Getting older – as you produce fewer tears as you age
•Hot and/or windy climates
•High altitudes
•Working for extended periods of time using a computer, reading or writing
•Hormonal changes in women (i.e. menopause, pregnancy or while using a contraceptive pill)
•Side effects of certain medications (i.e. antidepressants, antihistamines, beta-blockers and diuretics)
•Underlying medical conditions such as blepharitis, contact dermatitis and rheumatoid arthritis
In addition to treatments such as lubricating eye drops, there are precautions you can take to reduce your risk of experiencing symptoms of dry eye syndrome. These include eating a healthy diet that is rich in omega-3 and omega-7 (foods such as oily fish), using your computer or laptop correctly to minimise eye strain, using a humidifier to moisten the air and keeping your eyes and eyelids clean and protecting them from dry, windy, smoky or dusty environments.
67 High Street • Redcar • TS10 3DD
