Transition glasses explained: find the right lenses for you
Have you ever heard from your eye doctor about getting transition glasses? These eyeglasses usually come with lenses that can work either indoors or outdoors. Would you prefer these lenses over the ordinary ones you have today? Read along to learn more about transition glasses.
How do transition glasses work?
Transition glasses are also referred to as light-adaptive, photochromic, or variable lint lenses. All these terms point to a similar type of lens. Essentially, eyeglasses with transition lenses are designed to be clear indoors and automatically darken when you're outdoors and exposed to sunlight or UV light.
With this design, you can even eliminate the need for sunglasses making it convenient for those who use eyeglasses most of the time. Also, these glasses are known to provide total UVB and UVA protection regardless of sunlight exposure.
You might wonder how you can identify transition glasses just by looking at the lenses. For those unfamiliar with the different types of glasses, it might be challenging to distinguish them from the others.
When these glasses are exposed to UV light, the molecules within the lens get activated. Hence, the darkening of the lenses. Transition lenses do not only darken upon exposure to sunlight. Since UV rays can pass through the clouds, transition lenses also darken when the skies are cloudy and overcast.
In short, there is a change in lens color on your transition glasses when outdoors. The lenses adjust their shade based on the light intensity in their environment.
Transition glasses vs. sunglasses
You may also be wondering whether there is a difference between sunglasses and transition glasses. Here's the catch, these two types of eyeglasses differ in various ways.
With sunglasses, wearers will not have to experience transition time. They're generally the original outdoor eyewear that protects the eyes from the sun. They're better used when you're driving. Unlike transition glasses, where there are transition times, you only need to remove your sunglasses when it gets too dark and wear them when the sun is out. Those who need correction on their vision can also opt for prescription sunglasses.
Meanwhile, transition glasses are ideal for those with strong prescriptions requiring them continually to wear their glasses to see things. Rather than switching between your sunglasses and eyeglasses, you can use one pair of transition glasses to protect you from UV rays and help you have better vision.
Regardless, your choice of eyeglasses will depend on your preferences and how each type brings more functionality into your everyday life. You can turn to transition glasses if you want to avoid the hassle of bringing more than one frame. If you're uncomfortable with transition times, you can opt for regular sunglasses.
What are transition lenses good for?
Weighing your options on getting the transition glasses or the regular ones can be overwhelming. Here are some aspects where these glasses are essential.
1. UV rays' protection.
Using transitional lenses means more protection from the sunlight. They do more than protect. They can filter out a considerable amount of harmful UV rays emitted by the sun.
2. They can be ideal as sports eyewear.
Transition lenses are suitable for people who are fond of physical activities. You can customize your transition glasses with polycarbonate and Trivex lenses. These lens materials are safe to wear for any sporting activities.
3. They're also great for kids with vision prescription needs.
Since you only need one frame with transition glasses, it's easier for kids to use them instead of juggling two pairs of eyeglasses.
4. Transition glasses are ideal for those who want to save money.
With transition glasses, you only need one pair. This allows you to save more cash instead of spending it on another pair of sunglasses.
5. They're suitable for wearers who need corrections on their vision.
The same with kids; transition glasses are also good options for adults. You can update the lenses' corrections based on your eye doctor's prescription.
How to buy the best transition glasses?
There might be affordable transition glasses in the market today. However, you can still settle for less. Of course, you have to get your money's worth. Here are some insights that you can consider when buying these glasses.
1. Choose your frame.
This is one of the cardinal rules in buying eyeglasses. Ensure that your chosen frame accentuates your facial features. In short, you must find the contrast between your face and your preferred frame.
2. Assess the longevity of the transition lenses.
As you already know, transition glasses have specific molecules which react to the UV rays upon sunlight exposure. They have a lifespan. In most cases, transitional lenses work perfectly for around two years. It's also the time for prescription lenses to last and work their purpose.
3. Pick the shade of the lenses.
There are transition lens manufacturers who offer various tints. The options may include tints like gray and brown.
4. Choose the color of your frame.
The frame colors will also highlight your facial features. Like the frame style, there is a vast selection of colors for you. Those with warm skin tones can opt for olive, honey, and coral shades. Meanwhile, for cooler skin tones, lavender shades of blue, gray, and rose might be ideal for you.
5. Provide your prescription if applicable.
Transition lenses can also serve as prescription lenses. Eye clinics today provide customization of lenses according to your eye prescriptions. While it can cost you more, using transition glasses eliminates the burden of switching from pairs of glasses.
6. Assess its durability. You will likely use your transition glasses most of the time. With this, you must find a manufacturer who uses reliable and durable materials. This will give you the assurance that the eyeglasses will not easily break after using them on a few occasions. After all, it still serves as an investment on your part. In most cases, the lenses and the frame must last at least two years. Most eye doctors would recommend you to update your eyeglasses every two years.
Best glasses frames for transition glasses
1. Maria
Round glasses is always popular among all these types. With gold frame and glazed color, this Maria glasses is classic and chic. Also, the thin frame is lightweight, so you can wear it for a whole day without feeling any discomfort.
2. Alwin
Ivory color with tortoise shell pattern makes the vintage pattern pale and gentle. This Alwin glasses has a big and modern frame, which can make your outfits even cooler.
3. Marshal
Blue aviator glasses is usual, while this blue Marshal glasses is unusual. The rounded aviator glasses looks somehow bookish and gentle, while it also keeps the cool style of traditional aviator glasses.
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