Transitions® lenses

Are they Right for You?

What are Transitions lenses?

Transitions VI^® lenses are a special type of lens option to consider when selecting your eyeglasses. They are unique in that they turn darker, similar to sunglasses although not as dark, when you are exposed to sunlight but remain clear indoors and at night. The lenses work by activation to ultraviolet light ("UV").  Transition lenses will only darken when exposed to UV light. This occurs because Transitions lenses are treated with patented photochromic dyes which cause the lenses to activate.  The level of darkness of the lenses is dependent on the intensity of light the lenses are exposed to so you get the appropriate darkness for any setting.  Darker tinted Transitions lenses (Transitions XTRActive) are available for those that prefer a light tint indoors and an even darker tint outdoors.

Benefits of Transitions eyeglass lenses

Just like your skin, you need to protect you eyes from the damaging rays of the sun.  Even on cloudy days the invisible light coming from the sun, called ultraviolet (UV) light, can be harmful to your eye health.  Transitions VI^® lenses block 100% of eye-damaging UVA and UVB radiation.  That helps to maintain the health of your eyes and reduces your chances of developing macular degeneration and cataracts.  Although the invisible light from the sun is the most damaging, visible light can be just as debilitating in very bright conditions.  Transitions^® lenses help to reduce glare, which can decrease your visibility.  Transitions VI^® lenses reduce the amount of light entering your eyes, minimizing squinting and providing an overall increase in comfort while outdoors.  For even more glare reduction, our doctors recommend Transitions XTRActive or adding an anti-reflective coating and even polarization to help achieve superior outdoor vision for sports, driving, and family outings.         

Who benefits from Transitions lenses?

Everyone!  UV light is damaging to everyone and we all lose visibility and visual comfort when exposed to bright conditions.  Parents are quick to cover their children up with sunblock but often overlook the need for protective eyewear.  Because it can be difficult for children to keep up with multiple pairs of glasses, Transitions^® lenses are a great alternative!  They are also beneficial to athletes and at sporting events, whether you are participating in the sport or watching from the stands, reducing glare will enhance you experience.  It is important to know that Transitions are best used as "everyday" lenses.  Very sunny days or extensive outdoor periods require true sunglasses for darker tints and the most glare reduction. 

           
Transitions Lenses are Very Versatile

Transitions VI^® lenses are compatible with virtually all frame styles and they're available in most types of lens materials and designs, including plastic and thinner materials like polycarbonate and Trivex^®.  Transitions are available in single-vision lenses, bifocals, multi-focals and progressive lenses.

Cost of Transitions Lenses

Transitions^® lenses are simply an upgrade that you may select to further customize your glasses.  The additional charge for Transitions^® lenses typically begins around $75.00 depending on where you purchase your eyeglasses.

Concerns and Questions about Transitions eyeglass lenses

 A common concern of Transitions^® lenses is that they do not turn dark enough in vehicles.  While they will darken, they won't get as dark in vehicles as they would directly in sunlight.  This is because most windshields are UV blocking, resulting in less UV light to activate the lenses.  Nonetheless, they will still darken and help reduce the amount of light entering your eyes.  For darker tints behind a windshield try Transitions XTRActive lenses.  Another concern regarding Transitions^® lenses is that they take too long to return to clear once indoors. However, the newest Transitions technology allows lenses to automatically adjust to your environment, alleviating that concern.