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How Do Transition Lenses Work?

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A close up man's face wearing transition lenses outdoors.

Switching between eyeglasses and sunglasses every time you step outdoors can be inconvenient. Enter transition lenses—a revolutionary solution to simplify your life while enhancing your vision.

Transition lenses darken when exposed to sunlight and return to their clear state indoors. Whether you’re new to wearing eyeglasses or a seasoned pro, these lenses can transform your experience as an eyeglass wearer.

How Do Transition Lenses Work?

Transition lenses use photochromic technology, so they’re also known as photochromic lenses. These lenses have special molecules that react to ultraviolet (UV) light.

When exposed to sunlight, the photochromic molecules change structure, causing the lenses to darken. As you move indoors or away from UV light, the molecules return to their original state, and the lenses become clear again.

The seamless transition from clear to dark and back to clear eliminates the need for separate prescription sunglasses. The process is quick and automatic while keeping your eyes always protected from harmful UV rays. It’s a smart, convenient, and effective way to manage varying light conditions without compromising style or function.

The Benefits of Transition Lenses for Daily Use

One of the most significant advantages of transition lenses is their convenience. Imagine stepping out into the bright sun and not having to reach for your sunglasses. With transition lenses, your eyewear adapts to your environment, providing optimal vision and comfort at all times. This adaptability makes them ideal for daily use, whether you’re driving, walking, or working outdoors.

Additionally, transition lenses offer 100% UVA and UVB protection and filter blue-violet light indoors and outdoors. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can lead to eye health issues such as cataracts and macular degeneration. Wearing photochromic lenses helps protect your eyes from these threats without having to switch glasses. The lenses also reduce glare, which can improve visibility and reduce eye strain during activities like driving.

Transition lenses are available in various frame designs and styles, making them suitable for a range of visual needs. The versatility makes sure everyone can enjoy the benefits of photochromic technology.

Addressing Common Concerns & Questions

Close up transitions glasses with a clear lens on the left and tinted lenses on the right.

Transition lenses are a fantastic option for many people, but you might wonder if they’re right for you. Let’s address some common concerns and questions.

First, transition lenses are suitable for almost anyone who wears glasses. Whether you have myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), presbyopia (age-related difficulty in seeing close objects), or astigmatism, you can benefit from transition lenses. If you have more than one refractive error, you can also get bifocal or progressive lenses with photochromic technology.

Some people worry that transition lenses won’t work well in cars because of the UV-protected windshields. While it’s true that traditional photochromic lenses may not darken as much in vehicles, there are specific types of transition lenses designed to address this issue. 

Another common concern is the speed of transition. Modern transition lenses are designed to change rapidly, adapting to changing light conditions, darkening in approximately 30 seconds. This quick reaction helps maintain optimal vision and comfort, no matter where you are. To return to their clear state, the lenses usually take around 5 minutes. 

Tips for Choosing the Right Transition Lenses

Choosing the right transition lenses depends on your lifestyle and visual needs. Here are some tips to help you make an informed decision.

Consider Your Daily Activities

Think about how you spend your day. If you’re frequently outdoors or in environments with varying light conditions, transition lenses can be incredibly beneficial. They offer the convenience of not needing to switch between different pairs of glasses.

Evaluate Your Prescription Needs

Transition lenses are available in various types and can accommodate multifocal or progressive lens prescriptions. Consult your eye doctor to determine the best option for your visual requirements.

Choose the Right Lens Color

Transition lenses come in colours such as gray, brown, and green. Each colour offers a distinct style. Consider what works for your preferences and daily activities.

Check for Additional Features

Some transition lenses have added features like anti-reflective coatings, which reduce glare and improve clarity. Ask your eye doctor about these options to enhance your overall experience.

Your eye doctor is your best resource for personalized advice. They can assess your visual needs, lifestyle, and preferences to recommend the most suitable transition lenses for you.

Vision Comfort & Health with Transition Lenses

Transition lenses are more than just convenient technology. They are a smart investment in your eye health, vision comfort, and overall quality of life. By adapting to changing light conditions, they provide consistent vision, reduce glare, and protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.Whether you’re a busy professional, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone who simply values visual comfort, transition lenses can make a significant difference. Book an appointment with Eyesis Eyecare to explore how these innovative lenses can benefit you.

Written by
Dr. Kam Dhiman

More Articles By
Dr. Kam Dhiman

Protecting Your Eyes & Vision Is What We Do

Our clinic is fully equipped with modern technology used to manage eye conditions, such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, cataracts, diabetes, and retinal diseases. We’re ready to support your eye health.

When it comes to keeping your eyes safe at work, we value providing safety glasses that meet your needs. No matter your field of work, we can help give your eyes the protection they deserve.

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We have been serving Calgary families for decades.

Routine eye exams for children & seniors with a valid Alberta Health Care card are fully covered in our clinic.

We provide eye exams for children with disabilities & special needs.

We welcome emergency eye care patients. Visits are covered under Alberta Health Care.

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We pride ourselves on providing full, comprehensive eye exams without hidden charges.

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Eyesis Eyecare is located in the Riverbend Shopping Centre on 18th Street SE, near the VCA Canada Riverbend Animal Hospital.

Our Clinic can accommodate wheelchair patients who can safely transfer themselves (or with their own assistant). We are unable to assist in transfers as we do not have a fully wheelchair equipped exam room/bathroom.

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We are located in the Riverbend Shopping Centre, so there is plenty of parking available in front of the clinic. We look forward to welcoming you.

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  • #346, 8338 18 St.
  • SE Calgary, AB T2C4E4

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  • Monday: 9:00 AM 5:00 PM
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  • Wednesday: 9:00 AM 5:00 PM
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