Wearing eyeglasses can be a struggle, especially if you are out and about on a bright, sunny day. To shield your eyes from the harmful UV rays, you have to carry a pair of sunglasses to combat glare. When you get indoors, you have to switch back to your glasses.
However, there is an available alternative that takes away the hassle of wearing a different pair of eyewear whenever you are in or out of the house. Dr. Joel H McGahen, OD, your local low vision specialist, shares everything you need to know about photochromic lenses.
Also known as light-adaptive or light-intelligent lenses, these special eyeglass lenses let you see clearly when you are indoors and darken automatically when exposed to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. It doesn’t matter if the sky is clear or overcast—as soon as you step outside, it’s like you’re wearing sunglasses.
Photochromic lenses were first made using silver chloride or silver halide—two compounds that darken when exposed to UV light. Today, you can find lenses that come with proprietary dyes that darken in sunlight through chemical changes.
Progressive lenses, bifocals and even contact lenses can be equipped with photochromic technology. In some lenses, an anti-reflective coating is added for enhanced performance. More light can pass through the lenses, ensuring sharper vision when driving at night and eliminating reflections in bright conditions.
If you are looking to own a new pair of eyeglasses, consider photochromic lenses. For one, they are convenient—as already mentioned, they can be worn inside or outside, eliminating the need to bring prescription sunglasses alongside your normal eyeglasses. Also, they protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful types of UV rays.
More importantly, glasses with photochromic lenses can be worn by everyone. They help protect children and adults against cataracts later in life. This condition has been linked with a person’s lifetime exposure to sunlight and UV radiation. If your child is wearing glasses, consider lenses that are made of impact-resistant polycarbonate material.
As the esteemed eye doctor in the local area, Dr. Joel H McGahen, OD can complete a thorough consultation to outfit you with prescription eyeglasses that will meet your needs and complement your style and preference for comfort and function. We offer different brands, including Transitions photochromic lenses.
Call (717) 264-4012 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. Our Pennsylvania service areas include Shippensburg and Greencastle.