Photochromic sunglasses may also be known as transitional lenses. You have probably seen that term more widely used on product names. They are named so because the lenses transition from clear to dark. When they are exposed to light, they darken, and in darker areas, the lenses turn clear. For this reason, they are popular for outdoor sports where the sunlight can change quickly and affect crucial visibility.
How Photochromic Sunglasses Work
Photochormic sunglasses work with certain molecules engineered for the exact purpose of darkening when exposed to sunlight. These molecules are integrated directly into the lenses the sunglasses. It creates a unique quality for the lenses in that they are transparent in the absence of UV rays. However, when UV rays hit the photochromic molecules, they react to them by changing forms. This occurrence causes the lenses to darken. The more UV rays hitting the molecules, the darker the lenses will become.
How Are Photochromic Sunglasses Useful?
These lenses solve a problem for people who need to wear eyeglasses, and cannot wear sunglasses other than prescription ones. You will no longer have to carry two pairs of sunglasses, making things a lot easier. Most people will not carry more than one pair around sacrificing protection for their eyes. If you have a pair of photochromic sunglasses that are prescription you get to have the best of both worlds.
Driving With Photochromic Sunglasses
When driving, photochromic sunglasses can be particularly useful. We tend to go inside and outside a lot when traveling so having one of these photochromic sunglasses can be indispensable. You will no longer have to stop to switch to sunglasses when the sky suddenly becomes brighter. For sports, this can be very useful too. Especially when playing sports outdoors, and the sunlight changes due to the clouds moving, it is great to have a pair of sunglasses that can react to that. If you are playing tennis or volleyball, for instance, there is no time to stop in the middle of a game to go switch out sunglasses–especially if you are playing in a competition.
Shopping For Photochromic Sunglasses
There are many options when purchasing a pair of glasses with photochromic lenses, so you should be careful in which you choose. Cheaper ones may not be the same since they do not darken as much as the could. This is preferable by a small number of people, but it doesn’t do as good a job as protecting than quality lenses. A choice between these would also depend on your eyes. If you are more sensitive to light, then it may be worth it to pay extra for photochromic sunglasses so they darken more as it gets brighter outside.