Although the days are getting shorter, it’s important to remember that your eyes are still vulnerable to UV rays, even on cloudy days. When the sun is lower in the sky, you’ll likely find yourself needing sunglasses to shield your eyes from the bright light. If you wear prescription glasses, photochromic lenses can provide a convenient alternative to switching between your normal glasses and sunglasses. But how do you decide if they’re right for you?
Photochromic glasses explained
First developed in 1960, light adaptive glasses are embedded with compounds that react to UV light. When exposed to UV rays, a chemical process occurs, and the molecules within the lens shift and absorb the light, causing the lens to darken and tint. So, when you go out into the sun, they darken into sunglasses, and when you go back inside, they return to clear glasses lenses.
Advantages of light adaptive glasses
Photochromic glasses are a game-changer. They offer convenience and value by reducing the need for both prescription sunglasses and glasses. With 100% UVA and UVB protection, your eyes are protected all the time, reducing the risk of developing UV-related eye conditions like cataracts later in life. Grey is a popular choice for photochromic lenses however, there are a variety of shades available to match your preferences and frame choice if you feel like being a bit more adventurous.
Disadvantages of photochromic lenses
Although there are benefits, you do need to make sure it’s the right decision for you. If you drive a lot, you should be aware that most vehicles have UV-blocking windscreens. Standard photochromic lenses will not change while you are in the car, however there are some options that will. Light-reactive lenses are also affected by weather, being slower to react and darkening more when it’s cold. Plus, if you’re looking to eliminate glare from the sun, photochromic glasses are not polarised, so that’s something to consider too.
Lenses available in practice
If you’re interested in light-adaptive lenses, our friendly team is on hand to help you choose between the world-renowned Transitions® lenses and HOYA Sensity lenses. Both brands use advanced technology to provide fast fade back from dark to clear and feature a scratch-resistant coating to keep them in good, working condition. You can choose from a wide range of colours, and for those who are fashion-forward, both brands offer a mirrored photochromic finish, providing a stylish look wherever you go.
Contact us
For more information about light adaptive glasses, contact our opticians in Potters Bar. Our friendly experts will be happy to give you personalised advice to help you choose the right lenses for your needs.
