Transition lenses problems you should know (pros and cons)

Transition lenses are special lenses that adapt to changing light conditions. This type of lens is made to allow users to see clearly regardless of the prevailing light conditions. When you have a transition lens on, the lens will change to dark when you go outside or enter a well-lighted room but return to normal if you return indoors or exit the lighted room and everywhere around you is dark. 

The good thing about transition lenses is that they protect the eyes from excess light and UV rays that may damage your vision. Transition lenses also block out harmful blue light from digital screens.

So suffice to say that they are eye protectors that can work for dark and fully lighted areas including outdoors. These lenses have become very popular especially for those who don't want to wear eyeglasses. By having such lenses on, they eliminate the need to have glasses in the first place.

How does they work? Well, transition lenses are activated when they are exposed to ultraviolet light or significant light exposure. This is because the molecules in the lens darken under light. Science suggests that UV rays from the sun have the capacity to penetrate the clouds when the sun is shining at a high resolution. So if you have these lenses on and you are outside, the lenses will adjust depending on the intensity of the sun. The more the brightness the darker the lenses will become.

The pros of transition lenses

There are significant benefits of having transition lenses. For starters, people who wear these lenses may or may not have a medical condition but they serve to protect the eyes. Here are some of the pros of wearing transition lenses.

1. UV Protection: 

You already know that constant exposure to ultraviolet rays can increase eye degeneration in later years. But when you wear transition lenses, you protect your eyes when you are outdoors because they provide maximum UVA/UVB protection.

2. Blue LED Light: 

Blue LED lights are not visible to the human eye but they exist in every screen we use today. This unnatural lighting is known to cause eye strain and headaches if your eyes are exposed to them for too long. But with transition lenses, you are protected from the light.

3. Multiple options: 

Another positive with transition lenses is that you have a luxury of options when making a choice. There are different types such as multifocals, bifocals and high index lenses. So if one option doesn’t work for you, you can always switch to another option.

4. Colors and shades: 

There isn't a single type of lens but they come in different shades and colors. You can choose a color that suits you.

5. AR coating: 

Transition lenses can also be coated with anti-reflective coating if you want.  This coating is used to reduce glare from natural and unnatural light sources and improve vision at night.

The cons of transition lenses

As great as transition lenses can be, there are certain disadvantages to using them. Let's review some of the cons.

1. Adjustment lags

Transition lenses take time to adjust from dark to clear or vice versa. For starters, they do not darken well enough inside cars or areas where there is light penetration. One main reason for this is because the windshields in cars have Anti-UV features which will reduce UV entry into the car.

2. Changing shades may be uncomfortable

If you find yourself in a situation where you constantly have to transit from a dark room to a lighted room or from indoor spaces to outdoor areas constantly, your vision will be affected as the lenses will keep switching shades. This may cause some level of discomfort or visual orientation.

Do you need transition lenses?

Transition lenses have been around for years and have evolved. Today they continue to help people see clearly and may serve you well as well but do you need them?

That will depend on what your condition might be and what will be required. So it is advisable you consult an optometrist who will perform tests on you so as to better understand what your needs will be. If the expert recommends transition lenses, you can start using them and enjoy the value therein.

Best glasses frames for transition lenses

1. Ariana

Gold metal frame and tortoise shell pattern both make this Ariana glasses classic and timeless, while the cute design makes the glasses chic and stylish. With this glasses on your face, you can easily achieve many different styles.

2. Myla

Elegant rose gold frame with red rhinestones, this Myla glasses is both elegant and attractive. The rounded lenses also makes the glasses look gentle and chic. This glasses is the pair that won't let you down.

3. Caia

Deep blue and lighter blue on one frame, making this Caia glasses cool and modern. The soothing blue color of this Caia glasses is a wonderful option for those who want a pair of blue glasses frames.

Find more about this topic:

What are advantages and disadvantages of progressive lenses

What are the advantages and disadvantages of bifocal lenses

The advantages and disadvantages of high index lenses

What is the difference between single vision and progressive lenses

Transition glasses explained: find the right lenses for you

Anti-glare glasses explained: pros, cons, and more

How to find the right photophobia glasses (light sensitivity glasses)?