Transition lens also known as the photochromic lens are quite popular nowadays. These lenses are designed to turn dark when the sunlight hits while returning to a clear state in the absence of activating light. Their popularity stems from the fact that one does not need to carry a pair of glasses each time for different purposes. You can simply get the lens installed in your regular glasses for eyesight. While the transition lens offers several advantages, there are some disadvantages as well. Let’s discuss.
Pros
Lens Darken Quickly
Perhaps the biggest advantage of using transition lenses is that they darken quickly. The lens is designed to darken as soon as the wearer steps out in the sun. Within a matter of 30 seconds, the regular eyeglasses of the owner turn into a pair of sunglasses with no effects whatsoever. This tends to be a huge plus for people with lifestyles that require going outdoors and indoors several times during the day.
Decreased Sensitivity To Light
It is a well-known fact that direct exposure to UV rays can cause harm. With that being said, the transition lens protects the eyes from harmful exposure and ensures that the UV rays do no hurt the eyes when the wearer is working outdoors. One of the major eye issues as a result of direct sunlight exposure is cataracts. The transition lens is designed to prevent that.
Save Money
Back in the day, people who used to wear prescription eyeglasses had to go out and buy a new pair of sunglasses to combat the harmful UV rays. Now that they have the option to purchase the 2-in-1 option, they can buy a good quality lens without having to spend extra on a different pair.
Cons
Don’t Work in Vehicles
The transition lens does not work in vehicles. Therefore, if you are driving or simply sitting in the passenger seat, you cannot expect the lens to function. The reason is that the vehicle’s windshield has its own mechanism that prevents UV rays from getting in by blocking them. Since the lens does not come in contact with the UV rays while driving, it will not turn dark. As mentioned earlier, the transition lens requires an activating light to function.
Outdoor Photos Are Difficult
If you are wearing a transition lens while attending a special event, know that your eyes will totally be obscured from sight if you were to capture some photos in the sunlight. In such cases, a transition lens will not be the ideal option. It is best to carry a different pair of sunglasses. If you want to keep the lens on, it’s your choice, unless you are trying to be a rock star in every photo.
Lenses Are Not Properly Polarized
A popular complaint from the users of prescription eyeglasses and those sensitive to light share that transition lens does not offer much protection against harmful rays. While the lens has made significant progress over the years, it will be time until it can be properly polarized.
Final Word
Transition lens is quite in demand nowadays and for a good reason. Their advantages outweigh the disadvantages, making them a preferable option for many. However, keep in mind that transition lenses are a bit expensive. Since you will be protecting your eyes from harmful UV rays, only a good pair of polarized transition lens will do the job.