Photochromic lenses: What are Transition Lenses?

Photochromic lenses, also known as transition lenses, turn into a darker shade outdoors when exposed to sunlight or ultraviolet rays. They return to their clear, original state, when they are back indoors. These lenses are a convenient option for those who wear prescription glasses and prescription sunglasses, and don’t want the hassle of carrying around two pairs.

• How do transition lenses work?
• Advantages and disadvantages of photochromic lenses
• Different types of photochromic lenses at Feel Good Contacts
• Which transition lens colour is the best?
• Steps to buy photochromic lenses at Feel Good Contacts

How do transition lenses work?

Transition lenses are equipped with advanced light-adaptive technology. This allows the lenses to turn darker when outdoors and at the peak of transition, the lenses can become as dark as a sunglasses lens in bright, natural sunlight. Once indoors, these lenses return back to clear prescription glasses.

Advantages and disadvantages of photochromic lenses

Although glasses with photochromic lenses offer many advantages, they may not be for everyone. We’ve compiled a list of both advantages and disadvantages to help you decide.

Advantages of transition lenses

Convenience – Prescription glasses with these lenses are a convenient option, as they eliminate the need of carrying an extra pair of sunglasses.

Protection and comfort – These lenses offer 100% protection from UVA and UVB, keeping certain eye conditions at bay and providing comfort to the eyes.

Cost-effective – Glasses with these lenses also eliminate the need to buy two pairs, both prescription glasses and sunglasses separately, making them a cost-effective option.

Disadvantages of transition lenses

Delayed reaction – Some photochromic lenses can take longer to adjust and change their tint as per different light conditions, impacting their performance.

Not ideal for driving – Apart from the Transitions Drivewear and Transition Xtractive, most photochromic lenses will not change to a fully dark tint inside the car as most car windshields filter out UVA and UVB rays.

Temperature and weather dependent – These lenses may take longer than usual to turn from dark to clear in cold weather.

Different types of photochromic lenses at Feel Good Contacts

Feel Good Contacts offers a wide selection of photochromic lenses with 100% UVA and UVB protection, especially from the renowned Transitions brand. It has developed a range of light-adaptive lenses with different properties for different uses. Have a look at the top photochromic lenses along with their colours and features:

Which transition lens colour is the best?

The best colour for transition lenses depends largely on how well it complements the frames you’ve selected and the purpose you’ll be using them for. Transition Gen S lenses are available in seven colours – grey, brown, graphite green, sapphire, amber, ruby and amethyst, providing many options. A wide variety of tints helps cater every style and offers certain benefits.

Grey tint – The classic grey colour goes well with every frame colour and is perfect for hiking, driving and water-related activities.

Brown tint – The evergreen brown complements many frame colours, such as green, brown and tortoiseshell patterns, effectively minimising the glare from bright sunlight.

Graphite green tint – The versatile green hue sits exceptionally well on frame colours, such as clear, black and tortoiseshell and is a perfect choice for enjoying outdoor sports.

Sapphire tint – The bold sapphire tint matches well with clear acetate frames of grey and black colours and is ideal to wear in misty conditions.

Amber tint – The warm amber shade pairs well with a tortoiseshell pattern, Havana, black and clear frames and is an ideal choice for driving.

Ruby tint – The visually striking ruby colour is a perfect match for black, silver, grey and gunmetal frame colours and appeals to those who love making bold fashion statement.

Amethyst tint – The vibrant hue of amethyst adds elegance to acetate frames of grey, black and crystal colour and is a flattering pick for those who like to stand out from others.

Steps to buy photochromic lenses at Feel Good Contacts

Step 1: Choose the glasses frames you wish to purchase and select 'Choose your lenses'.

Step 2: Select the lenses which best describe what you will be using your glasses for the most.

Step 3: Enter your prescription details, “Upload the prescription” or select 'Send later'.

Step 4: Select ‘Light adaptive lenses’ under the type of lenses you want.

Step 5: Choose from four options, namely Light Reactive, Transitions Gen S, Transitions XTRActive, Transitions Drivewear and the lens colour.

Step 6: Choose your lens package and coating, then ‘Add to Basket’.

Feel Good Contacts stocks everything from contact lenses to solutions and sunglasses to prescription sunglasses to cater to all your eye care needs in one place.