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If you wear eyeglasses, you know how inconvenient it can be to switch to sunglasses every time you go outside. It is not easy to remember to carry sunglasses everywhere you go. Fortunately, you can avoid the hassle by getting transition lenses. Also known as photochromic lenses, they darken automatically in bright sunlight and return to clear when indoors. Find out if transition glasses are a good idea.

 

About Transition Lenses

Transition lenses have been around for years. Decades ago, the lenses were only made of glass and came in grey. Today, light-adaptive lenses are available in various materials and several colors. The lenses contain dyes that change chemically and darken when exposed to sunlight. The technology has come a long way, making transition glasses safer and more effective. They provide the required UV protection.

 

Benefits of Transition Lenses

If you wonder whether transition glasses are a good idea, you should understand their benefits.

·         The lenses are convenient. They automatically adjust to lighting, and you can wear them indoors and outdoors.

·         The lenses do not darken when exposed to most forms of artificial lighting.

·         They provide continuous UV protection. There’s no need for you to switch to sunglasses when you go outdoors. It reduces the risk of losing your glasses.

·         They are cost-effective as you do not need to invest in prescription sunglasses.

·         The glasses are available in various colors and styles to suit individual needs.

·         The lenses are ideal for most prescription needs.

Transition glasses are ideal for kids as they double as sunglasses. You can add features like shatter-resistant, anti-reflective, and blue light blocking.

 

Cons of Transition Eyeglasses

Before you get transition eyeglasses, you should consider their drawbacks:

·         Some lenses take a long to adjust to brightness. Talk to an eye care professional about your needs and the most effective brands.

·         It can take long for the lenses to adjust during cold weather.

·         The lenses do not darken inside a car. The vehicle windshield contains UV protection that keeps the lenses from darkening. You can find transition lenses designed for wear in cars.

·         Transition lenses usually cost more than clear lenses.

Getting Transition Lenses

There are various types of transition lenses. Look for lenses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection. The lenses are available in prescription and non-prescription forms and are compatible with anti-reflective coatings. You can get lightweight materials and designs to suit your needs.
 

Some lenses can take up to 15 minutes to reach their full dark state and just as long to clear again. The pros outweigh the cons, and you should learn about your options before you purchase. There are contact lenses available with the photochromic technology.

 

Choosing Lens Brands

Transition glasses cost more than clear eyeglasses, but they are more convenient. Since there is no more need to buy prescription sunglasses, they are cost-effective, too. Popular brands of the lenses include Transitions Gen 8, Transitions XTRActive, Transitions Vantage, LifeRx, Sensity, and PhotoFusion. Others are SunSensors, ColorMatic IQ Sun 2, PhotoGray, PhotoBrown, and Thin & Dark. Transitions Drivewear are lenses designed specifically to be worn while driving.
 

For more on if transition glasses are a good idea, visit Super Optical Express. Our office is in Gainesville, Florida. Call 352-702-9700 to book an appointment today.