Photochromic lenses
Convenient light adaptive technology
Have you ever gone outdoors in your prescription glasses and noticed you forgot to bring a pair of sunglasses with you? It's a common mistake to make. Well, photochromic lenses might just be the solution you need. They go from light to dark when you move inside to outdoors.
What are photochromic lenses?
Photochromic lenses, otherwise known as transition lenses, are extremely convenient and adapt to changing light conditions, remaining clear indoors and darkening outside. They block 100% of UVA/B rays when exposed to bright sunlight, functioning as both fully clear glasses inside and a pair of fashionable sunglasses when you go outdoors.
How do photochromic lenses work?
Small molecules are fixed into a photochromic lens. The lens is completely clear until it is exposed to bright sunlight outdoors. The molecules shift, change shape and absorb the light. This chemical process changes the molecules and they darken to a sunglasses tint. The photochromic lens will remain dark whilst it is exposed to UV rays and then the molecules will revert the lens back to its original clear state when taken away from the bright light.
Benefits of photochromic lenses
Dual purpose and convenient, functioning as both fully clear glasses and sunglasses so there's no need to carry two pairs.
Complete protection from the sun’s harmful UVA/B rays.
A cost-effective solution to buying both a pair of sunglasses and glasses.
Reducing your exposure to harmful UV rays can lower the risk of cataracts or other diseases.
Potential disadvantages of photochromic lenses
- Standard photochromic lenses are not optimised for driving. This is because the windscreen will likely block any UV rays which are required to activate the chemical process that makes the lenses darken. However, Transitions®Drivewear® lenses are specially designed for driving and combine light intelligent technology with polarisation to reduce glare. They are always tinted, reacting behind the car windscreen and also outdoors, blocking 100% UV light. Please be aware, Transitions®Drivewear® are not suitable for driving at night or indoor use.
- Even though photochromic lenses transition from clear to dark fairly fast, it can take quite some time for them to do the reverse. This could be slightly inconvenient or even dangerous if you enter a dark room. Make sure you keep this in mind and take care.
- Photochromic lenses will protect you from the sun but may not be suitable for anyone with an extreme sensitivity to light. However, they are ideal for most wearers but make sure you take advice if you're affected by specific light conditions.
Choose from our range of photochromic lenses
Light adaptive
Our light adaptive lenses remain clear inside and darken outdoors. They block 100% UVA/B rays when exposed to bright sunlight, functioning as both regular fully clear glasses and sunglasses.
Transitions® Light Intelligent Lenses™
Transitions® lenses adapt to changing light conditions. They are 100% UVA/B blocking and help protect against sources of blue light. As for Transitions® Drivewear® lenses, these are always tinted and are most ideal for keeping you safe when you're driving. You can discover more about Transitions® lenses in our buying guides.
FAQs
How to order photochromic lenses
1. Choose your frame
Explore our wide collection of trendy frames online and add your favourites to your basket.
2. Select your lenses and package
Select your vision type and then pick light intelligent lenses as your lens category. Decide which of our four light adaptive lenses is most suited to your needs. Next, choose one of our sophisticated lens packages.
3. Add your prescription
Add your prescription or choose to send it later via email, phone, or post.
4. Enjoy your new light adaptive eyewear!
Once your new eyewear has been delivered to your door, you'll be able to try them on and show them to everyone you know.
