Wondering how to activate transition lenses? These light-adaptive photochromic lenses automatically adjust to changing light conditions — staying clear indoors and darkening outdoors to shield your eyes from UVA and UVB rays. They’re ideal for anyone who wants the comfort of a pair of glasses and the protection of sunglasses in one.
If this is your first time wearing transition eyewear, you may be curious about how they work. In this guide, we’ll explain the science behind photochromic lenses, how to activate them, and what to expect.
How do transition lenses work?
Transitions® Light Intelligent Lenses™ are a type of photochromic lens designed for vision correction. They contain microscopic photochromic dyes that respond to UV exposure, specifically UVA and UVB light.
When exposed to ultraviolet light, the photochromic molecules in the lens change shape and absorb light, a chemical reaction which causes the lenses to darken — transforming them from clear lenses indoors to a subtle sun lens tint outdoors in bright light. Once you step back inside, the molecules return to how they were before, and your lenses gradually return to a clear state again.
Although this reaction happens quickly, it can take a short time for lenses to return fully clear, especially in dim environments. Remember to give your eyes a moment to adjust when moving between bright and low-light areas.
How to activate transition lenses
There are two main ways to activate your transition lenses; naturally with sunlight or artificially using UV light.
1. Expose your lenses to bright sunlight
The simplest and most effective way to activate transition lenses is by exposing them to natural UV light. Their level of darkness depends on the amount of UV light present. The more UV exposure there is, the darker the lenses become. In low-light or overcast conditions, they may appear lightly tinted rather than fully dark, as they would in direct sunlight.
Transition glasses are perfect for people who love spending time outdoors or lead active lifestyles. They adapt seamlessly to all weather conditions, even on cloudy days, offering continuous eye protection against harmful UV rays and glare. With these versatile lenses, there’s no need to switch between separate eyeglasses and sunglasses.
2. Use artificial UV light from a torch
If you’re keen to know how to activate transition lenses without sun, try shining a torch on them. These are easy to find online or at hardware stores. Simply shine the UV light on the lenses and you’ll see them darken within seconds.
That said, the best way to experience your photochromic lenses is outdoors under natural sunlight — where they perform most effectively and deliver the smoothest transition.
Do transition lenses work through windows?
Most modern windows block UV rays, which means standard transition lenses won’t darken indoors or inside a car. This is actually an advantage for many wearers, as it prevents your glasses from reacting unnecessarily when you’re indoors or working by a window.
If you spend long hours on digital devices, consider adding an anti-reflective coating to your photochromic lenses. This extra feature will reduce glare, ease eye strain, and help keep your vision sharp throughout the day, especially if you work in a bright indoor environment.
Are transition lenses suitable for driving?
Standard light-adaptive lenses like Transitions® Signature® GEN S™ are designed for general use and will not activate behind a car’s windscreen, as it blocks most UV light.
For drivers, we recommend Transitions® Drivewear® or the new generation Transitions® XTRActive® lenses:
- Transitions® XTRActive® lenses react to both UV and visible light, allowing them to darken even behind a car windshield. They’re ideal for light-sensitive wearers and are safe for night driving.
- Transitions® Drivewear® lenses combine photochromic technology with fixed polarisation. They reduce glare, enhance contrast, and adapt their tint according to surrounding light conditions — providing clearer, more comfortable vision when driving during the day.
Frequently asked questions
Q: Can I get transition lenses with my prescription?
A: Absolutely! Prescription glasses with photochromic lenses are available with various lens types and coatings. Your optician can recommend the best combination for your needs and lifestyle.
Q: Can transition lenses replace regular prescription sunglasses?
A: Yes. They provide full UVA and UVB protection, though polarised sunglasses may offer extra glare reduction for long periods in bright sunlight.
Q: Do transition lenses block blue light?
A: All of the transition lenses at Glasses Direct include blue light filtering — ideal for anyone who spends time on screens.
