On a sunny day in the scorching summer, have you ever been troubled by not finding the right sunglasses? At this moment, a pair of magical glasses will become your powerful assistant – transition lenses! Without the need to deliberately switch to sunglasses, they intelligently adjust their color with the changes in sunlight, allowing you to maintain a clear vision and enjoy the joy brought by the sun. Don’t worry about not finding the right glasses anymore, transition lenses will be your excellent choice!
What Are Transition Lenses?
Transition lenses are eyeglass lenses that stay transparent indoors or in low light conditions and turn dark in the presence of UV light. They made by using photochromic molecules that undergo a chemical reaction when exposed to UV radiation, causing them to darken. That being said, the terms of transition lens and photochromic lens can typically be used interchangeably to describe a lens that transitions from clear to tinted based on the lighting in your environment. Additionally, light responsive lenses and light-adaptive lenses all used to describe them. Sometimes you may see Transitions®, that’s a brand of photochromic lenses. With the increasing popularity of transition lens, Transitions® is frequently referred to as “transition lenses” because people also commonly omit the “s” from the end.
How Do Transition Lenses Work?
Transition lenses contain light-sensitive molecules, such as silver halide or organic compounds, that are embedded in the lens material or applied as a spin coating. When exposed to UV light, these molecules undergo a reversible chemical reaction that causes them to change shape and absorb more light, darkening the lenses. When the UV light diminishes, such as when you go indoors or when it’s cloudy, the molecules revert to their original state, and the lenses become clear again.
Do transition lenses block uv?
Yes, transition lenses can block UV (ultraviolet) light. Photochromic lenses contain special light-sensitive molecules that react to UV light by darkening, and they also absorb harmful UV rays in the process. As a result, transition lenses can block 100% of UVA and UVB rays and provide UV protection to the eyes when they are fully activated. This UV protection helps to reduce the risk of eye damage caused by exposure to sunlight, including conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration, and photokeratitis (sunburn of the cornea). Therefore, wearing transition lenses not only provides visual comfort in changing light conditions but also helps to safeguard the long-term health of your eyes.
Do transition lenses work in the car?
Transition lenses can work in the car, but they do not work as effectively as they do outdoors. This is because most car windshields are treated to block UV rays, which are necessary to activate the photochromic technology in transition lenses. As a result, the lenses may not darken significantly while driving. However, some transition lenses are designed to activate behind the windshield of a car, but the level of darkening may be less than what you experience outdoors. If you frequently drive and want sunglasses that work well in the car, you may consider getting a separate pair of polarized sunglasses.
How to activate transition lenses without sun/at home?
Transition lenses are primarily activated by UV light from the sun, so it’s challenging to fully activate them without sunlight. However, there are a few methods you can try to simulate UV light indoors, such as using a UV lamp or flashlight, these methods may not fully activate the lenses or achieve the same level of darkening as outdoor sunlight.
How long does it take for transition lenses to change color?
The time it takes for transition lenses to change color depends on various factors, including the intensity of UV light, temperature, and the specific type of lenses. In general, transition lenses begin to darken to about 80% within 30 seconds of exposure to UV light. They typically reach their maximum tint within 1~2 minutes when exposed to bright sunlight. However, the transition back to clear lenses when moving indoors or out of direct sunlight can vary. Transition lenses usually begin to lighten within a few minutes once UV exposure diminishes. They may fade back to their clear state within 3~5 minutes, depending on the environmental conditions.
Should I Get Transition Lenses?
Transitions can take the place of having to carry about an additional pair of sunglasses to protect yourself from UV rays and bright weather. While prescription sunglasses are not dynamic and only offer one tint color, in that case, it might not be suitable for every condition. Transitions automatically change to the right tint to protect your eyes in any lighting condition. Transitional lenses may also be an excellent choice for people with extreme light sensitivity. They will shield you from most lighting conditions and spare you from squinting when performing tasks in bright outdoor environments.
Transition Lenses Respond to Light to Fit Your Lifestyle
Transition lenses offer a convenient and effective solution for individuals who require prescription eyewear and sunglasses. By understanding the science behind how transition lenses work and how to use them effectively in sunlight, you can make an informed decision about whether they are the right choice for you. Whether for everyday use or specific activities, transition lenses provide a versatile and protective eyewear option.
