Photochromic Glasses

FAQ

What are Photochromic Lenses?

Photochromic lenses are glasses lenses that react to different levels of UV light. When exposed to bright light on a sunny day, molecules in the lens react and become darker, offering protection from the sun’s radiation. As light levels decrease, the molecules go back to their original state and become transparent once again. Photochromic lenses only react when exposed directly to UV light, meaning that in the office or home environment, they will remain clear.

How do photochromic lenses work?

Photochromic lenses are coated with special molecules, such as silver chloride, that change shape and absorb light when exposed to UV rays. It is this reaction that causes them to darken in sunlight. When taken away from UV light, the process reverses, causing the lenses to gradually become lighter.

Will temperature affect my photochromic glasses?

Temperature can affect how quickly photochromic lenses change, but UV light remains the main factor. In colder conditions, the lenses may take longer to darken, while warmer temperatures can speed up the process. Extreme temperatures might slightly alter the tint, but UV exposure is what truly controls how dark or light the lenses become.

Do photochromic lenses work in the car?

Photochromic lenses are primarily designed to react to UV light, but they do offer some blue-light filtering. While UV and blue-light are different, blue-violet light, which is high-energy and close to UV, can be partially blocked by these lenses. Photochromic lenses can help reduce exposure to blue-light from the sun and digital devices, which can cause eye strain. However, they are not as effective as lenses specifically designed for blue-light protection. For better comfort during extended screen time, consider lenses labeled as "blue-light blocking" or "blue blockers." Lenses with an index higher than 1.57 tend to offer better blue-light filtering.

Does photochromic include blue-light?

For the photochromic lenses whose index level is over 1.57, the blue-light blocking function is included excluding the 1.61 high index pro.
If you want transitional lenses with a blue-light blocking function, please choose the new-generation transitional lenses. For frame price that is over $20, we will provide the new-generation transitional lenses.

What is the difference between photochromic lenses and Transitions ® lenses?

Photochromic vs. Transition Lenses: Differences & Similarities
Photochromic lenses darken in response to ultraviolet (UV) rays so you can spend time outdoors comfortably without glare. Transitions® with a capital 'T' is a brand name of a type of photochromic lens. So, all Transitions® are photochromic, but not all photochromic lenses are Transitions®.