Well, we’ll tell you — it’s all about Transitions® lenses! The clever technology within these lenses reacts to light, turning your glasses into sunglasses within seconds. This feature protects your eyes from harmful rays and bright lights while creating an undisturbed view at all times.
But are Transitions® lenses too good to be true? Not at all! This blog tells you exactly how Transitions® lenses work, the technology behind them, the different types of Transitions® lenses available, and how Lensology can help you with yours.
So, How Do Transitions® Lenses Work?
Transitions® lenses react to light and heat. When the photochromic molecules on the surface of the lens come into contact with light, they warm up and move, changing the structure of the lens from clear to a coloured tint. In dark settings, Transitions® lenses remain clear, allowing more light to reach your eyes. As the amount of light increases, the molecules react with a specialised dye within the lens, turning your Transitions® lens from clear to dark, and turning your glasses into sunglasses.
Turning Up the Heat on Transitions®
So, is it heat or light that turns Transitions® lenses into sunglasses? Well, it’s a bit of both! Naturally, the more light available, the warmer it will be. And it’s the heat that influences how quickly the photochromic molecules move and change the lens’ structure. In cold temperatures, you may notice your Transitions® lenses taking a little longer to adapt. On a hot summer day, your Transitions® lenses can fully darken within minutes.
Do Transitions® Lenses Work Everywhere?
Primarily, the photochromic molecules in Transitions® lenses only react to UV light (sunlight). That’s why most Transitions® lenses are labelled as sunglasses; they only really work outside. Also, car windscreens are designed to block UV light. So, some Transitions® lenses don’t work while driving because there’s not enough light for the molecules to react. However, thanks to the development of Transitions® lenses, multiple versions are available — some of which work behind a car windscreen and respond to artificial light and reflective glare. This means Transitions® lenses now give glasses wearers a clear and comfortable view no matter where they are or what they’re doing.
The Three Types of Transitions® Lenses
Transitions® Gen S
Your classic Transitions® lenses. These work by quickly adapting to the amount of UV light available. So, while inside or in darker environments, the lens remains clear to let in more light. As you move outside or the sun strengthens, the polychromic molecules react and darken to create a tinted, protective lens.
Transitions® XTRActive
The smart technology behind the Transitions® XTRActive lenses means you can wear your Transitions® glasses even while driving — no matter the weather! Whether overcast skies, sunny days, or rain, these Transitions® lenses react to the light that comes past your windscreen, changing to a darker tint to shield your eyes and provide a clear, safe view of the road ahead.
Transitions® XTRActive Polarised
Transitions® XTRActive Polarised lenses combine photochromic molecules and polarised lenses to offer the ultimate protection from bright light and reflective glare. Whereas Transitions® Gen S reacts to UV light, Transitions® XTRActive Polarised lenses react to UV light and artificial light. Meaning you can wear your glasses at all times without worrying about harmful rays, squinting, or eye strain; your Transitions® lenses have you covered.
How Do Glasses Turn into Sunglasses?
Switching to Transitions® lenses can transform your regular glasses into sunglasses. With Lensology, you don’t need to buy another pair of specs — we’ll fit Transitions® lenses straight into your favourite frames. They’ll be designed to your prescription, preferred coloured tint, and any additional protective coatings you’d like.
By adding a Transitions® lens, your glasses will have the same photochromic technology. This means no matter where you are, your lenses will react to the light available and fade from clear to dark to clear again. So, you can go from computer glasses in the office to stylish sunglasses on your drive home with zero stress.
Are Transitions® Lenses the Same as Photochromic Lenses?
Yes and no. Both lenses are based on the same technology, but while photochromic lenses offer more standard protection, Transitions® lenses have developed their range to suit everyone and every lifestyle. Our blog on photochromic lenses offers a detailed breakdown of the difference.
Transitions® Lenses from Lensology
See our range of Transitions® lenses for yourself! Our lenses have eight fabulous tints to match your style and existing frames. Are you looking for prescription Transitions® lenses? No worries; we can design lenses bespoke to your needs. It all starts by requesting a pack, and we’ll sort the rest.
Browse Transitions® Lenses
