BLOG_header - Vision 770
eye_care - Vision 770

Photochromic Lenses vs. Sunglasses: Which is Right for You?

If you wear glasses, you know how important it is to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. One option for achieving this is by wearing sunglasses. However, another option that’s gaining popularity is photochromic lenses.

Photochromic lenses are lenses that darken when exposed to UV light, such as sunlight, and then lighten when you go indoors or out of direct sunlight. They’re also known as transition lenses, as they “transition” from clear to dark and back again.

So, what are the pros and cons of photochromic lenses versus sunglasses?

Pros of Photochromic Lenses:

  1. Convenience: With photochromic lenses, you don’t need to carry a separate pair of glasses for indoor and outdoor use. You can wear one pair of glasses all day, no matter where you go.
  2. Versatility: Photochromic lenses can be worn in a variety of settings and lighting conditions. They adjust automatically to changing light conditions, making them perfect for those who spend a lot of time indoors and outdoors.
  3. Protection: Like sunglasses, photochromic lenses provide protection against UV rays. They block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, which can cause eye damage and increase the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
  1. Limited Color Options: Photochromic lenses typically only come in one or two colors, such as gray or brown. This may not be ideal for those who prefer a wider range of lens colors.
  2. Transition Time: Photochromic lenses may take some time to transition from clear to dark and vice versa. This can be an issue when moving from indoors to outdoors or vice versa.

  1. Wide Range of Colors: Sunglasses come in a variety of lens colors, including green, blue, yellow, and more. This allows you to choose a color that suits your style and preferences.
  2. Faster Transition Time: Sunglasses offer immediate protection against the sun’s rays, without any delay in transition time.

Cons of Sunglasses:

  1. Need for Multiple Pairs: If you wear prescription glasses, you’ll need a separate pair of sunglasses. This can be inconvenient and costly.
  2. Limited Use: Sunglasses are designed for outdoor use only. They can’t be worn indoors or in low-light conditions, which can be problematic for those who spend a lot of time indoors and outdoors.

So, which option is right for you? It depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and budget. If you’re looking for convenience, versatility, and all-day protection, photochromic lenses may be the way to go. If you prefer a wider range of lens colors and immediate sun protection, sunglasses may be a better fit.

Regardless of which option you choose, it’s important to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. Be sure to choose lenses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, and wear them whenever you’re outdoors. Your eyes will thank you!

Have questions? Feel free to contact us!

 

Back to blog