Pros and Cons of Photochromic Lenses

Otherwise known as transition lenses, photochromic lenses adapt to changes in the intensity of light thus aiding in improved eyesight. They come in handy for people with eyesight issues, especially those sensitive to light. The lenses darken when exposed to ultraviolet rays, appearing as sunglasses. They revert to their original state when indoors or in dark environments.

Benefits of photochromic lenses

Benefits of photochromic lenses

There are many pros associated with wearing glasses with photochromic lenses and these include:
•    They come in varied tints of gray and brown to suit individual style
•    Rapidly changing lenses help reduce eye fatigue and strain while indoors as well as squinting in broad daylight. The degree by which the lenses darken depends on the intensity of light and as such, you don’t have to be worried about being stuck with uncomfortable shades.
•    They darken or turn clear and in just half a minute and when indoors, transition lenses maintain a 5% residual tint.
•    They save you a few bucks because you don’t need to buy separate prescriptions for sunglasses and eyeglasses.
•    They help reduce sensitivity to ultraviolet rays. This, in turn, helps to lower the risk of age-related eye issues such as cataracts.
•    They give a crisper vision and as such, colors are more vivid in daylight.
•    They are ideal for adults and children that struggle with juggling two pairs of glasses. Protecting your eyes from ultraviolet rays with photochromic lenses can help them ward off eye damage in the future.
•    They are available in light materials. Moreover, they can be applied to different forms of lenses including progressive, bifocal and single lenses.

Disadvantages of photochromic lenses

Disadvantages of photochromic lenses

There aren’t many reasons as to why one shouldn’t invest in photochromic lenses but for the sake of argument, here are a few:
•    One may have to take them off during outdoor photoshoots. Due to exposure to ultraviolet light, the lenses will darken thus obscuring your eyes. Unless you are trying to rock a hip look, they will have to come off.
•    While some manufacturers have come up with car-friendly lenses, photochromic lenses don't work in a car since UV rays are blocked by the windshield. However, those who drive convertibles may not be affected by this.
•    Photochromic lenses are yet to be polarized; as a result, if your eyes are light-sensitive, these lenses may not protect you from the hard glare. On a positive note, polarized photochromic lenses could be available in a few months.