The Advantages of Transitional Eyeglasses

Switching between your prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses is a nuisance. Besides the extra cost of two pair of glasses, the chance of losing or breaking one pair or the other is a possibility. Photochromic lenses, sometimes called "transitional" after the trademarked Transition lenses, are special optical lenses that change when you go from inside to outdoors.

Convenience

• Photochromic lenses transition from clear lenses indoors to darker lenses outdoors, practically eliminating the need for prescription sunglasses. The lenses are available in many lens materials, including regular plastic, polycarbonate, glass and special thin lenses called hi-index.

Cost

• Photochromic lens cost varies depending on the manufacturer, material of the lens and type of changeable lens. At time of publication, most optical retail stores charge an additional $36 to $95 for photochromic lenses, but the price varies depending on style and retail policy.

Protection

• Scientists suspect that cataracts, a cloudy lens in the eye, can be caused by overexposure to sunlight, according to the University of Rochester Medical Center. Wearing sunglasses helps protect your eyes from UV radiation. Photochromic lenses provide 100-percent protection against ultraviolet radiation.

Additional Considerations

• Special transitional lenses provide additional advantages for people with specific medical needs. Photochromic lenses are available with a special red tint for a condition called macular degeneration, which causes vision problems in low light. You can add mirror coatings and anti-reflective coatings to photochromic lenses to cut down glare. Your eye-care practitioner can help you select the best type of changeable lens for your specific needs.