Frequently Asked Questions
About Transitions Lenses.
What are photochromic lenses?
Photochromic lenses are lenses that darken when exposed to
UV light, such as when you walk outdoors. When you are no longer exposed to the
effects of UV, (i.e. walk indoors), the lenses return to their clear state.
Transitions® lenses are photochromic lenses that block 100% of harmful UVA and
UVB rays.
Why is protection your eyes from harmful UV radiation
important?
Many people routinely take precautions to protect their
skin against UV rays but are unaware of the need to protect their eyes against
UV damage. Research indicates that long-term, unprotected exposure to the
sunlight can lead to age-related conditions such as macular degeneration,
cataracts and other eye conditions that can compromise healthy sight. Most eye
care professionals now recommend that people protect their eyes against UV
exposure at all times.
Do Transitions lenses protect against UV rays?
Yes. Transitions lenses block 100% of both UVA and UVB
rays. In fact, Transitions lenses are the first to earn the American Optometric
Association (AOA) Seal of Acceptance for UV Absorbers/Blockers.
Do Transitions lenses reduce glare?
Yes. Transitions lenses react quickly to changing light and
can become as dark as sunglasses outside in bright sunlight. As light conditions
change, the level of tint adjusts to provide the right tint at the right time.
This convenient protection against glare is automatic.
Can I use Transitions lenses like sunglasses?
Outdoors, Transitions lenses automatically darken depending
upon the amount of UV radiation present. The brighter the sun, the darker
Transitions lenses get, all the way to as dark as most sunglasses. So, they help
enhance the quality of your vision by reducing the sun’s glare in different
light conditions; on bright sunny days, on cloudy days and everything in
between.
However, since extremely high temperatures tend to affect
lens performance, Transitions lenses may not always get as dark as sunglasses.
Also, since they are activated by UV exposure, Transitions lenses don’t work
behind the windshield of a car since your windshield actually blocks UV rays.
Ask your eye care professional for advice on options that are right for you,
from prescription sunglasses and polarized sunglasses to a special category of
lenses that carry the name Activated by Transitions™.
Can Transitions lenses enhance my quality of vision?
Yes. Because Transitions lenses adjust to changing light
conditions and reduce glare, they enhance the ability to discern objects of
varying size, brightness and contrast, enabling you to see better in all light
conditions.
How do Transitions lenses work?
Transitions lenses contain special photochromic dyes that
cause the lens to activate, or darken, when exposed to ultraviolet rays from
sunlight. When the UV light diminishes, the lenses fade back. As light
conditions change, the level of tint adjusts, offering the right tint at the
right time. It’s important to note that the UV radiation blockage remains
constant. Transitions lenses provide automatic protection from UV radiation in
both the clear and darkened states.
Are Transitions lenses a good alternative to clear lenses?
Yes. Transitions lenses are as clear as clear lenses
indoors, and as dark as most sunglasses outdoors in bright sunlight. As light
conditions change, the lenses adjust quickly to provide the appropriate level of
tint. They block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, providing convenient protection from
UV radiation. Transitions lenses are compatible with all frame styles, and
available in all types of lens materials and designs, from high index to
shatter-resistant materials, from single vision lenses to progressives.
How fast do Transitions lenses work?
Transitions lenses begin to darken the moment they are
exposed to UV light. The greater the intensity of UV radiation, the darker the
lenses become. The moment UV rays are no longer present, the lenses begin to
fade back. In short, Transitions lenses quickly darken when you go outdoors, and
fade back fast when you return indoors. Most wearers report the adjustment
happens so smoothly that they are unaware of it. They are aware, however, of
their continued visual comfort.
Are Transitions lenses suitable for driving?
Windshields in today’s vehicles block most of the UV rays
that cause Transitions lenses to activate, or darken. As a result, just like
clear lenses, Transitions lenses do not activate inside a car.
Special-purpose driving lenses have been developed that
combine polarized lens technology with photochromic technology. These lenses
carry the Activated by Transitions™ name. Ask your eye care professional if you
need a pair of polarized prescription sunglasses for driving, or if lenses
Activated by Transitions™ are right for you.
Are Transitions lenses appropriate to wear while working
at a computer?
Yes. They can be worn any place that you would wear
regular, clear lenses all day, every day. Transitions lenses help you see more
comfortably inside and out, day and night.
Are Transitions lenses available in different lens
designs?
Yes. Transitions lenses are available in a wide range of
lens designs including single-vision, bifocals, trifocals and progressives.
They are also available in shatter-resistant, standard and
high index lens materials. Regardless of your prescription or lens preference,
you may choose either gray or brown Transitions lenses. Transitions lenses are
also compatible with lens treatments and options such as anti-reflective (AR)
coating, scratch resistant coating and edge polish (which removes the frosted
look from lens edges).
Where can I purchase Transitions lenses?
Transitions lenses are the #1 recommended photochromic
lenses in the world so ask your eye care professional for them by name. Make
sure you receive your certificate of authenticity.