0

Why Photochromic Lenses?

While many of us eagerly welcome taking in some additional vitamin D, healthcare professionals everywhere are urging us to be mindful of protecting ourselves against harmful UV rays. Whether you are mountain biking, running or fishing, moving in constantly changing ultraviolet light conditions, it’s difficult to take your eyewear off and on during your activities. By fitting your favorite prescription glasses frames with photochromic lenses, you’ll never again find yourself searching for your shades while effortlessly keeping your eyes safe.

Gif of lens transitioning from dark to light

What are Photochromic Lenses?

Often known by their trademarked names Adapt and Transitions lenses, a photochromic lens, or transition lens, is a progressive lens that darkens when exposed to sunlight and lightens when indoors. Photochromic lenses are ideal for protecting your eyes from UV light or UV radiation outdoors and seamlessly transition optical view from sunglasses to eyeglasses when you step inside. These lenses can be fitted into sunglasses for any face shape and are a convenient alternative to carrying around two pairs of glasses. However, there are advantages and disadvantages associated with photochromic lenses that should be weighed against their potential drawbacks depending on your needs.

View through of a photochromic lens when activated and deactivated 

Pros:

  • Immediately the ideal pair for any setting, photochromic lenses adapt to environmental changes with you.
  • Enhanced comfort and eye health with reduced eye strain and glare.
  • Available in most eyeglass prescriptions.
  • Photochromic lenses provide no-hassle daily protection against harmful UV rays, by absorbing 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
  • Eliminates the need for carrying two pairs of glasses. 
  • Cost-effective! Many transition lens wearers may not need to buy prescription eyeglasses and prescription sunglasses as well to block out bright sunlight.
  • Available in several colors and styles to suit your look.

    Cons:

    • Environmental conditions affect how they darken. It can take longer for the eyeglass lenses to change color in cold weather. Most automotive glass also offers some degree of UV protection which will in turn cause your photochromic lenses to not darken well inside your car.
    • Depending on the brand, it may take several minutes for your photochromic lenses to transition back to normal when going indoors after a sunny commute.

      So are photochromic lenses worth it?

      Absolutely! There are many benefits to owning a pair of photochromic glasses and many styles and tints that suit your needs in any environment, whether you’re on the slopes, on the water, or indoors. However, if you spend a good chunk of your day on the road, you might want to invest in a conventional protective tint for driving lenses or standard sunglasses tint with our selection of replacement lenses. Ensure full UV protection no matter where you are and outfit your favorite glasses today.