You may not have known what they were called, but you’ve probably seen photochromic lenses before. Also called photosensitive lenses, variable tint lenses or light adaptive lenses, they have special properties that allow them to adapt to different levels of natural light and protect your eyes from UV rays.
Put simply, they darken when exposed to the sun and they clear up again when they’re in the shade. Tinted and polarised lenses also offer UV protection, but what makes photochromic lenses different is their ability to actively adapt to the lighting in their surroundings. Transitions® lenses is probably the most well known brand for photosensitive lenses.
How do photochromic lenses work?
Photochromic lenses' ability to react to light comes from the tiny silver halide and chloride molecules embedded in the lenses. When exposed to sunlight, a chemical reaction causes these molecules to change shape, expand and absorb more light.
As a result of this process, the lenses become darker and remain like this for as long as they’re exposed to sunlight. The chemical process is reversible, and so the photochromic lenses will gradually return to their transparent state when they’re no longer in such strong light.
What are the benefits of photochromic lenses?
Photochromic lenses are excellent for your overall eye health. They block out 100% of harmful UVA and UVB rays, therefore reducing the risk of developing cataracts and other eye problems. In terms of comfort and versatility, it’s hard to beat photochromic lenses. In overcast and cloudy conditions they'll darken just enough so you don’t strain your eyes, without sacrificing clarity of view.
The practicality that photochromic lenses offer is a major plus. They can eliminate the need to carry an extra pair of prescription sunglasses, so they're great for an outdoor lifestyle. Their adaptive qualities mean that a pair of photochromic cycling glasses are as suitable for a 100km cycle in the sunshine as they are for a day at the office! Many photochromic lenses also incorporate blue light-blocking technology. So, what are you waiting for? Get yourself a pair today online at SmartBuyGlasses.
