You likely know what photochromic lenses are even if you don’t recognize the word. They are the glasses that turn into sunglasses, transitioning the lenses from clear to dark with exposure to UV light (You may also know them as Transitions lenses).
But how much do you really know about these lenses? And how do they work?
Keep reading for our complete guide to Photochromic glasses and everything to know before you put them in your next pair of glasses!
Table of Contents
What Are Photochromic Lenses?
Photochromic lenses, also known as light-adaptive, light intelligent, or variable tint lenses, automatically adjust to the amount of UV light present and turn eyeglasses into sunglasses when necessary.
Photochromic lenses are traditionally used in prescription eyeglasses so that wearers don’t have to carry both glasses and sunglasses.
Pros and Cons of Transition Lenses / Photochromic Lenses
Like most eyewear components, photochromic lenses are not for everyone. Because we are who we are, we’ll stick to the pros and cons of Oakley Transition lenses.
Pros:
- Eye protection: It’s tempting to go without sunglasses when it’s cloudy, but UV rays penetrate clouds and can damage your eyes or cause eye strain in any kind of weather. Photochromic lenses protect your eyes whenever UV rays are detected so you don’t have to worry.
- Convenience: No need to change sunglasses in the middle of walking or running, your glasses will do it for you!
- Cost Effective: No need to buy both prescription sunglasses and eyeglasses, instead you can buy one pair of Transition eyeglasses.
Cons:
- Pricey: They may be cost-effective for prescription eyeglass wearers, but they have a fairly steep entry point.
- Not for driving: Most Photochromic lenses conflict with the UV protection of windshields today meaning your transition glasses may not automatically darken when driving.
- Dated and gimmicky: Some people feel that transition glasses are a bit gimmicky, but this is really a matter of personal preference.
Are Transitions lenses the same as Photochromic?
Yes, Transitions lenses are a brand-name version of Photochromic lenses. After being introduced in 1990, Transitions became one of the most popular brands of photochromic lenses thanks to marketing that coined them as the lens of the future.
What you will find are different offerings based on brand. There are Transitions lenses that are specifically designed to work in the car, as well as different levels of maximum darkness and clearness, and how fast changes take place.
If you’re looking for photochromic eyeglasses you’re not restricted to the Transitions brand. Look for the terms photochromic and transitions when you shop to find more companies offering the technology.
Are Photochromic Lenses Only Available For Prescription Eyewear?
No, while Photochromic lenses are most commonly found in prescription eyewear, you can still buy non-prescription glasses with the same technology.
Plus, Photochromic lenses are now also available in contact lenses. These lenses will automatically adjust to various light conditions to tint the contacts while you’re wearing them!
How Do Photochromic Lenses Work?
Photochromic lenses work by using two main molecules: silver halide and chloride. These molecules chemically change the structure of the lens in response to UV radiation, darkening as they sense UV rays found in sunlight.
Those molecules, which number in the trillions in a photochromic lens, change back to their original structure without the presence of UV rays. The result is lenses that darken in the sun and return to their normal clear color indoors.
How Fast Do Photochromic Lenses Adjust?
The current generation of light-adaptive lenses change from dark to light (and back) in just seconds, compared to the minute or more it took when the technology was young.
This means when you step outside, your lenses will adjust before harmful UV rays can begin to affect your eyes.
Why Don’t Photochromic Lenses Work in a Car?
Because most windshield glass protects from UV radiation, photochromic sunglasses usually do not work when in a car.
You’ll see a similar effect to testing your Polarized lenses. But there are specific brands of photochromic and Transition lenses that are designed to work in a car.
Be sure to ask your eye doctor about the different options available before buying!
Can Children Wear Photochromic Lenses?
Yes, in fact, Photochromic lenses are actually recommended for children’s glasses to reduce the amount of UV exposure over a lifetime.
Plus it’ll save you from needing to buy your children both glasses and sunglasses!
Where Can You Buy Photochromic Lenses?
You can buy Photochromic lenses from your local eye doctor, eye care professional or directly from most eyewear retailers.
Depending on the brand or features you’re looking for (e.g Transitions, Oakley etc.) you may need to shop around a bit.
How Much do Photochromic and Transition Lenses Cost?
Transition lenses typically cost between $100 and $400, in addition to your eyeglasses frame cost. The specific price will be determined by the lens thickness, coatings and any additional features selected.
On the high end of the range we found Transitions Vantage lenses that polarize as they darken and reduce glare. We were quoted $380 for the Vantage lenses, in addition to the cost of the prescription eyeglasses frame.
Can You Buy Oakley Photochromic Lenses?
Yes, Oakley currently offers four frames with photochromic lenses, the Radar EV Path, Flight Jacket, Jawbreaker, EVZero Path, and Plazma.
But if you’re looking for light-sensitive lenses in another pair of Oakleys, you’re not out of luck. You can often find a wider variety of replacement lenses available with the technology.
Plus you can also customize your Oakleys to include a wider choice of lens and frame options!
Oakley markets these lenses primarily for everyday wear or shooting, which fits with most of the frames.
Final Thoughts – Are Transition Lenses Worth It?
Yes, Transition or photochromic lenses are worth it if the cost of photochromic glasses costs less than separate eyeglasses and sunglasses.
But it will mainly come down to personal preference and whether you’d prefer two separate frames for your glasses and sunglasses.
Overall, Transition lenses have come a long way since the early 90s. Now today’s largest brands like Lenscrafters, Oakley, and more offer photochromic lenses that can change tints in seconds to protect you from ultraviolet rays.
Have A Question?
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