Do HAL spectacle lenses reduce myopia progression in Indian children?

HAL (Highly Aspherical Lenslets) spectacle lenses are a non-invasive option to slow myopia progression in children. A recent real-world study conducted across multiple centers in India found that Indian children and adolescents wearing HAL lenses had much slower myopia progression compared to their untreated year ⁵. This adds to evidence from earlier trials in China showing similar benefits ⁹¹⁰.

What the research says

A 2025 multicenter retrospective study in India included 372 myopic children aged 4 to 16 years who wore HAL spectacles (Essilor Stellest). During the untreated year before wearing HAL, their myopia progressed by an average of -0.72 diopters per year. After starting HAL wear, progression slowed to -0.11 D/year — an 85% reduction ⁵. Axial length elongation also decreased significantly ⁵. These results are consistent with a 2-year randomized trial in China that found HAL reduced myopia progression by 0.80 D compared to single-vision lenses ⁹. A 5-year follow-up of that trial showed sustained efficacy, with HAL wearers progressing -1.27 D over 5 years versus an estimated -3.03 D with single-vision lenses ¹⁰. A systematic review of 12 randomized trials confirmed HAL as one of the most effective myopia control interventions, with a mean difference of 0.80 D and -0.35 mm axial length reduction compared to controls ¹¹. While the Indian study is retrospective, it provides direct evidence in the Indian population, supporting the use of HAL lenses in this group ⁵.

What to ask your doctor

• Is my child a good candidate for HAL spectacle lenses based on their age and degree of myopia?
• How often should my child's eyes be checked to monitor the effectiveness of HAL lenses?
• Are there any side effects or adjustments needed when starting HAL lenses?
• How do HAL lenses compare with other options like atropine drops or orthokeratology for my child?
• Will the cost of HAL lenses be covered by our insurance or health plan?