Do photochromic lenses block blue light?

Photochromic lenses are a fairly new type of lens that change color when exposed to UV light. To be precise, the lens darkens significantly upon exposure to UV light, which primarily comes from the sun. 

Photochromic lenses are also known by other names, such as light adaptive lenses, variable tint lenses, and transition lenses. There have also been a lot of claims that photochromic lenses are an effective way to get protection from blue light.

The Development of Photochromic Lenses

Photochromic lenses have been enjoying quite a buzz in the eyewear industry in recent years. Everyone seems to want to get one, not only because they are highly functional but also because they are fashionable as well. What many people don’t realize is that photochromic lenses have been around for decades. Early development began back in the 1960s, but it wasn’t until the early 1990s that manufacturers finally made it available to the market.

Today, the technology behind photochromic lenses has come a very long way. There are now several brands of this type of lens readily available in the market. Just a few years ago, the biggest brand of photochromic lenses have also introduced the first photochromic contact lenses.

How Do Photochromic Lenses Work?

When you are using photochromic lenses and you step out into the sun, you can literally see the lenses shift from clear or a very light shade to a much darker hue. Of course, we know it’s not magic but it can certainly look that way!

So, how do photochromic lenses work? It’s actually quite simple. The lenses include components, mainly photochromic dyes, which undergo a chemical reaction when exposed to ultraviolet light. This chemical reaction presents in the form of a color change. The greater the UV exposure, the more intense the chemical reaction would be, hence the darker the lenses would become.

Do Photochromic Lenses Block Blue Light?

Although not the main reason why people buy photochromic lenses, they are indeed quite good for blocking blue light. They can block blue light from the sun when you're outdoors, and they can also block blue light that comes from screens like computer monitors and smartphones.

There are two primary reasons why people like to wear photochromic lenses. The first is for protection against UV light. We all know that UV light can cause all sorts of damage to the eyes. Frequent exposure can result in the onset of cataracts, macular degeneration, corneal damage, and cancer, among other health issues. Photochromic lenses can provide total protection against UV light, whether they are in the light or dark stage.

The second reason why photochromic lenses have become immensely popular is convenience. How so? They have eliminated the need for people to switch from regular glasses to prescription sunglasses when going outdoors, and vice versa. As soon as you step out into sunlight, it takes only a couple of seconds for photochromic lenses to adjust accordingly, and you’re good to go.

Photochromic Lenses Tips for Your Glasses

Taking care of your photochromic lenses is not that different from caring for other types of eyewear. However, because of the sensitivity of these types of lenses, and the fact that they are quite a bit costlier than your regular glasses, you would want to put in some extra effort into its care and maintenance. Here are some tips to keep your lenses in tiptop condition.

1.Clean your lenses at least once daily. Cleaning means washing your glasses with liquid soap and water, making sure to be very gentle so as not to scratch the surface of the lenses.

2.Use only soap that does not contain moisturizer or other chemicals, as these might cause reactions on the coating over the lenses.

3.Make sure to wash your hands before you clean your glasses. Even the smallest piece of dirt on your hands might leave nasty scratches on your lenses.

4.Always keep your lenses in their case when not in use, especially if you have to put them inside your purse.

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