How color-changing lenses work

What are color-shifting lenses?

Color-changing lenses, also known as photochromic lenses, are a special type of lens that is able to change color based on the light intensity in the surrounding atmosphere. These lenses change from being clear in low light or indoor lighting, to darkening automatically in bright outdoor light, such as on a sunny day. In this way, they can function as both regular glasses and prescription sunglasses at the same time, making them an incredibly practical solution for eyeglass wearers.

Types of color-changing lenses

There are different technologies behind color-shifting lenses, each offering different properties and transition times. It is generally known in the optical industry that Transitions from Essilor is one of the best on the market.

Here are a few examples:

• Transitions Signature GEN 8: These are the most common and change color under UV light. They are typically clear indoors and darker in bright sunlight.
• Transitions Xtractive lenses: These lenses have the darkest tint under sunlight, providing increased protection against glare.
• Transitions Vantage lenses: These lenses are clear indoors, but they darken and take on a polarizing effect when exposed to direct sunlight.

How do color-changing lenses work?

Color-changing eyeglass lenses work because of a scientific process known as a photochromic reaction. When photochromic lenses are exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, special chemicals in the lenses absorb these UV rays, leading to a change in their molecular structure. This change causes the surface of the lenses to darken. When UV exposure ceases, such as when you go indoors, these molecules gradually return to their original structure, and the lenses return to their clear state.

Benefits of using color-changing lenses

There are many benefits to using color-changing lenses. Below are a few:

1. Practicality: With optical color-changing lenses, you don't have to switch between regular glasses and sunglasses all the time.
2. Health benefits: Color-changing lenses protect your eyes from harmful UV rays, which can help prevent eye problems like cataracts and macular degeneration.
3. Comfort: They prevent glare and improve contrast, making it easier to see on sunny days.

Potential challenges with color-shifting lenses

Color-changing eyeglass lenses are not without their challenges. Some of the most notable include:

• An inability to fully adapt immediately to changing lighting conditions.
• Limited effectiveness in the car, as the windshield blocks most of the UV light that triggers the photochromic switch.
• Varying reaction rates based on different temperatures. In colder conditions, glass tends to darken more than in warmer conditions.
• Poor quality color-changing lenses are typically not a pleasant experience for the wearer of the glasses. Therefore, always inquire about the technology used in the color change.

Using color-changing lenses in everyday life

In everyday life, color-changing lenses can be incredibly useful. Whether you're in the office or out enjoying a sunny day, your lenses will automatically adjust to the light conditions. This makes them an excellent choice for those who spend a lot of time outdoors, or those who constantly switch between indoor and outdoor activities.

How to choose color-changing lenses

When choosing color-changing lenses, you need to take a number of factors into account.

• You might want to consider your lifestyle. Are you outside a lot? Do you drive a lot?
• You should consider and research prices for color-changing lenses. There can be big savings if you choose to buy the lenses online instead of in a store.
• There are many different qualities of color-changing lenses. Transitions Essilor is known for being the market-leading technology and here you always want the highest quality. There are color-changing technologies that are cheaper, but here the user experiences that the color change is very slow and seems poor.
• Consider which type of lens suits your vision needs. Should you use single vision lenses or multi-vision lenses with a smooth transition ?

Care and maintenance of color-changing lenses

To extend the life of your photochromic lenses and maintain their effectiveness, it is important to take good care of them. Here are a few tips on how to do this:

1. Clean your glasses regularly with a mild soap and water, dry them with a soft cloth, and avoid using hard cloths or papers as they can scratch the lenses.
2. Store your glasses in a hard fiber case when you are not using them to protect them from damage.
3. Avoid extreme temperatures as it may damage the photochromic technology.

Color-changing glass at Glassify

Glassify is Denmark's leading online lens replacement service. We offer high-quality lenses at a fraction of the price you would normally pay. We only use Transitions Signature GEN 8 technology from Essilor in our lenses. We stand for quality. Our products can be tailored to your vision with lenses for all vision needs, including astigmatism. Whether you need single vision lenses, multi-vision lenses, or color-changing lenses, we are here to help. Take a look at our quality page for more information, or get answers to frequently asked questions about our products and services. Protect your eyes and see the world more clearly with Glassify.