It can be a difficult decision for you when it comes to choosing transition lenses or sunglass lenses. What may be right for you, may not be for someone else. This article will inform you about the history of both types along with pro’s and con’s of both!
History Of Transitional Photochromic Lenses
Photochromic lenses were introduced for glass lenses in the late 60’s by Corning. When they were exposed to UV light they would darken. These early photochromic lenses were plagued with problems. Since then over the last 40 years they have definitely improved.
Branding And Which Is The Best
Photochromic lenses have evolved and there has been a growing demand for these lenses. People on-the-go want to be able to wear one pair of glasses whether inside or outside.
Lens manufactures such as Zeiss, Essilor and Hoya have introduced their own versions and colors. Essilor has spent countless millions promoting their brand of Transitions. Does this mean the Essilor brand is the best? If a company is spending millions in advertising it is the consumer paying for it.
How Do Photochromic Lenses Work?
Photochromic lenses get activated when exposed to UV light even on a cloudy day. The molecules on the photochromic portion change and absorb more visible light. This causes the lenses to darken. These lenses are variable tinted lenses. They vary due to the conditions outdoors. They are temperature sensitive too. When it is extremely hot they get darker but not to their full potential. When it is cooler 85 degrees F and below they perform better.
Photochromic Lenses Or Sunglass Lenses?
Whether you should get a photochromic lens or sunglasses lenses depends on your personal preference and lifestyle. If you are inside more often than outside then they just might be a perfect solution for you! If you are very light sensitive you still can get a photochromic lens with a flash or style mirror on the outside. When they darken the mirror coating helps to reflect the sun rays and glare of objects. The newest versions of these lenses will darken to a degree when driving behind the wheel of a car.
If you have a more active lifestyle and want to depend on a lens that does not change then sunglass lenses are great. Sunglass lenses come in tinted or polarized tinted versions. You can also get them with a mirror coating for maximum protection.
The Pro’s And The Con’s
For general everyday use, photochromic lenses provide great visual comfort. They will give you adequate glare protection, protection from UV radiation and from potentially harmful blue light. However, behind a windshield, the UV radiation is often not enough to darken the lens completely. For this reason, it is advisable to wear a suitable pair of sunglasses on long car journeys!
Sunglasses are great and are available in varying permanent tints. They can be quite fashionable along with the frame they are installed in. Outside in darker situations they are not good and in some case be dangerous to wear.
If you are not light sensitive, Zeiss lenses are a great choice as they offer 100 percent UVA and UVB protection in a clear lens!
If you have any questions you are encouraged to contact us. We are happy to consult with you over the phone, email or by text to help you decide what might be best for you!
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