Essilor Stellest Lenses Recognized Among TIME's Best Inventions of 2026
Essilor has announced a significant achievement as its innovative
Stellest lenses have been included in TIME's prestigious list of the
Best Inventions of 2026, specifically within the
Health & Wellness category. This accolade not only marks a remarkable milestone for these lenses but also underscores Essilor's long-standing commitment to advancing eye care solutions tailored towards managing childhood myopia.
A Breakthrough in Myopia Management
The recognition comes as a testament to Stellest lenses, designed to slow the progression of myopia in children, a condition that is becoming increasingly prevalent globally. As we approach 2050, studies suggest that nearly
5 billion people will be myopic, highlighting an urgent need for effective early interventions. Childhood myopia presents a dual challenge: ensuring clear vision during formative years and mitigating potential long-term health implications associated with progressive myopia.
Essilor's Stellest lenses are the first spectacle lenses in the U.S. authorized by the
FDA to slow myopia progression in children. They received this vital market authorization in September 2025 following rigorous clinical trials, which demonstrated their effectiveness compared to traditional single-vision lenses. Additionally, they held a
Breakthrough Device designation from the FDA prior to this approval, marking them as a novel approach in myopia management.
Industry Leadership and Commitment
Arnaud Ribadeau Dumas, head of Product Marketing for Optical Categories at EssilorLuxottica, praised the recognition from TIME, stating, "Being recognized by TIME as one of the Best Inventions of 2026 reinforces Essilor's innovation capabilities, as embodied by the Essilor Stellest lenses." He emphasized how this commitment to innovation is not merely about creating products; it’s about transforming families' approach to childhood myopia through evidence-based solutions.
For over 175 years, Essilor has dedicated itself to improving vision through extensive research and collaboration with eye care professionals around the world. The launch of the Stellest lenses exemplifies their ongoing mission to harness innovative technologies that positively impact visual health.
The Growing Challenge of Myopia
Myopia is among the fastest-growing visual challenges faced by children today, contributing to a cycle of reliance on corrective lenses without addressing the underlying progression. Regular eye examinations and early interventions are crucial, as untreated myopia can lead to more severe eye health issues in the future.
The
TIME recognition occurs against a backdrop of increasing attention to childhood eye health and the eye care industry's critical role in enabling families to make proactive decisions regarding their children’s vision. With Essilor Stellest lenses, families are equipped with a reliable solution to manage myopia effectively.
About Essilor
Essilor operates as a part of
EssilorLuxottica, and stands as a leader in spectacle lenses on a global scale. Recognized for providing a robust portfolio that caters to diverse vision and lifestyle needs, they continuously incorporate cutting-edge technologies across their lens offerings, including notable brands such as
Eyezen,
Varilux, and
Crizal. By prioritizing cooperation with eye care professionals, Essilor reinforces its commitment to delivering innovative and dependable products that meet evolving market needs.
For more information about
Essilor Stellest lenses, visit their
official site.