Sun protection for our eyes is as crucial as it is for our skin, and it should be an inseparable part of our everyday eye care regime. Usually, we trust a pair of designer sunglasses to do the job since they offer 100% UVA and UVB protection. But transition lenses offer many benefits like that of a pair of sunglasses with the convenience of enjoying both vision correction and sun protection in a single frame. If you have been contemplating between sunglasses and transition lenses, we can help you make an informed decision as per your lifestyle and needs. So, let us compare both these options and see which one is the right fit for you.
What are transition lenses and how do they work?
Unlike sunglasses that have a permanent tint, transition lenses or photochromic lenses can adjust their tint according to the amount of UV light to which they are exposed. How does this happen? These lenses feature special, UV light-reactive molecules that can change their structure as soon as they are exposed to sunlight.
As a result, they remain clear indoors but darken under the sun to provide comfort and protection to your eyes from harmful UV rays. They become clear again when you move back indoors. The transition is usually seamless, especially if you buy from trusted online stores like Feel Good Contacts. Glasses fitted with transition lenses are commonly called self-tinting glasses.
Pros of transition lenses
Here’s why transition or photochromic lenses are becoming a popular choice:
Convenience
With transition glasses, you do not need to keep switching between your glasses and sunglasses. This makes your indoor-outdoor experience seamless, comfortable, and convenient.
Comfortable vision
Transition lenses help minimise eye strain and keep your eyes comfortable during screen time. They reduce glare and provide 100% UV protection.
Affordable solution
Since you can have your prescription glasses and sunglasses in a single product, transition glasses are indeed a smart investment.
Cons of transition lenses
As far as the cons of transition lenses are concerned, their main downsides are:
Limited darkness
The darkness of transition lenses is usually not as protective as sunglasses. If you are wearing them out on an extremely sunny day, they might not darken enough, making you feel uncomfortable.
How are sunglasses different from self-tinting glasses?
As we have already discussed, sunglasses have permanently tinted lenses that are not affected by light exposure. Available in a variety of lens types, including polarised, gradient, full-tint and more, tailored to your requirements, they block harmful UVA and UVB sun rays and help reduce glare. Here’s why sunglasses are a must-have accessory:
Focussed protection
Sunglasses are exclusively designed for sun protection, as the name suggests. However, advanced sunglasses with polarised lenses offer superior clarity, contrast and protection for activities like driving and sports.
High on fashion
Designer sunglasses have become an unavoidable fashion staple. Available in attractive frame designs and luxuriously tinted lenses, these sunnies are perfect to wear your heart on your sleeve.
Variety of options to choose from
When shopping for sunglasses, you get to choose from a variety of styles, tints and lens coatings like full tint and gradient.
What makes transition lenses a better option over sunglasses?
The only main disadvantage of opting for sunglasses and prescription glasses separately is that you’ll have to carry 2 pairs of eyewear for optimal vision and UV protection. Unlike self-tinting lenses that offer a seamless indoor-outdoor transition, you will have to constantly switch between both these pairs as per your requirement. This arrangement can also be more expensive.
What’s better for me?
Both sunglasses and self-tinting glasses with transition lenses have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. The right choice depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle requirements. If you are someone who frequently moves between low-light and sunny settings, transition glasses are a better alternative for you. However, if you usually spend more time outdoors under the scorching sun, sunglasses might be a better fit for you. So, choose your eyewear wisely for a clearer and more convenient experience.
