What You Need to Know About Transition Sunglasses

Transition sunglasses can be a great option for your vision care if you want to eliminate your need to switch from regular glasses to sunglasses when spending time in the sun. They also have some drawbacks that you'll want to consider before making the switch to transition lenses. 

eyecarecenter has put together this guide to help you determine if transition lenses are right for you.

How Transition Sunglasses are Different from Normal Glasses

Transition sunglasses, which are also called photochromic sunglasses, have lenses that change from clear to dark in color. The lenses can darken and lighten because they are made with special dyes that chemically change when exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. They'll even darken on overcast days due to the ability of UV rays to pass through clouds. 

The Pros of Photochromic Sunglasses

Photochromic sunglass lenses can provide many advantages to those who wear them.

Do you think that keeping track of more than one pair of glasses is too tricky? You may want to consider getting photochromic lenses. With them, you’re less likely to lose your glasses since you only need to carry one pair.

Photochromic lenses also serve as a great option for children needing vision correction. This is because they offer prescription lenses and UV protection in a single pair of glasses.

The 2 in 1 functionality of photochromic lenses may also mean you save money when ordering your next pair of glasses. With this type of lens, you’ll only need to buy one pair of glasses rather than two.  

The best advantage to wearing photochromic is that they protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays. It’s been proven that too much UV light exposure can increase your risk of developing cataracts, a condition that can make your eyesight appear cloudy. 

Just like a normal pair of prescription glasses, photochromic lenses can be made to include prescriptions for correcting refractive errors (either nearsighted or farsighted) and those needing bifocals. 

Another benefit of wearing photochromic lenses is that you can use them while playing sports thanks to their durable construction. These glasses are made from materials such as polycarbonate and Trivex, which are both lighter and more resistant to scratches than standard lens materials.

The Cons of Photochromic Sunglasses

Although photochromic lenses offer many benefits, they can also have some disadvantages. These are typically only minor inconveniences that you may notice when you first switch to transition lenses.

Not all types of these lenses perform as expected while inside a car. This is because your windshield usually has its own protection against UV rays. If you spend a lot of time in the car, talk to your doctor about the brands of photochromic lenses that can darken while inside your car. 

Some other factors that may impact your lenses’ performance can be the brand or external factors such as the temperature outside. Photochromic lenses can take longer to darken in cold weather. In addition to the weather, it may take some time for your lenses to transition. Some brands of lenses can take up to five minutes to fully darken when exposed to sunlight. 

The degree to which the sunglasses darken often depends on the brand. Be sure to ask your eye doctor which brand may work best for your lifestyle.

Another problem that some photochromic lens wearers experience is darkening in environments where you want them to remain clear. This can be especially frustrating when you’re wearing them indoors, such as in an office with bright lighting.

Clarkson Eyecare recommends talking with your eye doctor about what you need in your prescription lenses. Some of these cons may be avoidable with the right lens selection. 

If you’re still having trouble getting used to your new glasses, try talking to your eye doctor. They can provide you with more tips for adjustment or assist with switching back to your old prescription lenses.