Photochromic (Transition) Sunglasses have dark and light lenses. It depends on the amount of light present. It becomes dark when there’s sunlight and serves as regular sunglasses. Meanwhile, the lenses turn to light or transparent in softer or dark situations. Thus, some people also call Photochromic “Transition” sunglasses. But what are its pros and cons?
Convenience is the best advantage of using Photochromic sunglasses. No need to wear sunglasses over your prescription glasses. But note that it is not suitable for car driving and even when doing photography. Still, it offers various benefits for regular eyewear users.
For everything that we use, it has advantages and drawbacks. Photochromic sunglasses sound cool. But it has limited benefits to offer for you. It means there are cons you need to consider before wearing one. What are those? Let’s all figure more pros and cons.
What Are Photochromic Sunglasses?
Before we jump into the advantages and drawbacks, let’s identify Photochromic sunglasses first. It comes from the Greek words “photo” and “chroma.” The first one means light and the other means color.
When exposed to various amounts of light, the lenses change their color. With bright conditions, it turns dark. Then, it switches back to light or transparent when it’s in light or dark places.
Imagine wearing a pair of sunglasses that can serve two purposes. It can be regular sunglasses and prescription eyewear. How cool and convenient is that?
It is the reason people also call it the “Transition” sunglasses. The technology used in making these sunglasses is top of the line. Photochromic Sunglasses can change color depending on the light exposure.
How Does Photochromic Sunglasses Work?
So, Photochromic sunglasses have lenses that change color. But how does it happen? Let me explain it to you.
Let’s use glow-in-the-dark stickers or magnets as an example. Once exposed to bright lights, you’ll see its color become dark green. Then, the luminance will fade as its atoms cool down.
This situation is almost the same with Photochromic lenses. It turns dark after exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight. The chemical reaction within the lens makes it happen 30 seconds after the exposure.
It will then become clear again after a few minutes of moving indoors or moving to darker areas. You don’t have to press any button. Photochromic lenses adjust to the light conditions.
Thus, there’s only the ideal amount of tint that can pass through the lenses. But note that darker tint doesn’t always mean you’ll get more UV protection. It still depends on the UV treatment done on the lenses.
The color transition of the lenses will make your eyes feel more comfortable. So, do your everyday activities let you experience varying light conditions? Then, Photochromic sunglasses are your best option.
Pros Of Photochromic Sunglasses
We already know what Photochromic sunglasses are and how it works. So, it’s time to discuss the benefits of wearing this eyewear. Here are some of the best pros of using a pair of transitional lenses.
Photochromic sunglasses are convenient to wear.
Do you always bring your eye shades and prescription glasses whenever you go out? Well, you don’t have to do it when you use transition sunglasses.
No more switching between prescription sunglasses and regular glasses. Photochromic sunglasses may serve both functions.
So, you can free some extra space in your bag. You can also avoid forgetting a pair of glasses somewhere.
Transition sunglasses are cheaper in the long run.
Buying a pair of transition sunglasses is less costly than buying two pairs of eyewear.
It can also last longer than a regular pair of prescribed sunglasses. But the performance of transition lenses may decline after about three years. It means it may not go as dark. You can also see signs of yellowing.
When it happens, you must pay extra charges for photochromic treatment upgrades. Still, you get to save more in buying and upgrading one pair of sunglasses.
You can use Photochromic sunglasses in various applications.
This pair of sunglasses can adapt to changing light conditions. It means you can feel lesser eye strains and no more blinking into the sunlight.
You can use transition sunglasses for both indoor and outdoor purposes. For example, you can use it for daily commutes. It is also convenient when traveling. You don’t want to bring your regular prescribed eyewear anywhere.
You can look for prescription sunglasses with photochromic treatment. It is for people who spend a lot of time outdoors.
Limits the risk of losing your eyewear.
Sometimes, carrying two pairs of eyewear can be confusing. You’ll think you only bring one. So, you’ll end up losing the other pair.
With Photochromic sunglasses, you don’t have to experience this issue. You only need to carry one pair. It can serve as prescription shades and glasses. So, it is easy to bring with you.
Transition sunglasses can protect your eyes.
The tint of the transition sunglasses can provide ultraviolet protection. But you need to confirm it with the brand or the supplier.
Make sure that the pair you’re getting can filter out a good deal of harmful sunlight. So, you can have healthier eyes.
Photochromic sunglasses come in different styles.
Are you fashionable? Well, Photochromic sunglasses can go well with your style. It comes in different styles, shades, and tints. So, you can always find one that is perfect for your taste. You don’t have to limit your fashion sense.
Cons Of Photochromic Sunglasses
When there are pros, expect that there there are cons as well. Photochromic lenses are useful for both indoor and outdoor purposes. But, here are some downfalls you need to consider.
Photochromic sunglasses are not ideal for photography.
Whether you’re the photographer or the model, don’t use it for outdoor photography. It’s because you will find its display screen difficult to see.
When posing for the camera, remove the sunglasses. It can capture the dark lenses of the eyewear – unless it is your goal.
You can’t use transition sunglasses while driving cars.
Transition sunglasses won’t go dark as you would expect. It’s obvious even when there’s too bright sunlight while driving. It is because the windshield blocks it already. So, there would be a little light that would come through the eyewear.
Cold weather may affect Photochromic sunglasses.
Sometimes, extreme cold weather may affect the performance of this eyewear. It means the reaction to sunlight would be slower in winter.
How To Choose Photochromic Sunglasses?
The best way to choose Photochromic sunglasses is to consult with an eye care expert. This way, you can decide which will work best for your eyes. What are the features that you need? Do you have an eye grade? You can start looking for transition sunglasses with anti-glare protection.
Final Words
Photochromic or transition sunglasses provide convenience. You can also pay less than buying two pairs of sunglasses. Transition sunglasses can serve two purposes. Its lenses go dark with the presence of sunlight. Then, it lightens as you go indoors.
But be aware of its limits. You can not use this eyewear sometimes. Ask your eye care professional if transition sunglasses would work best for you.
