What are Photochromic Lenses?

Photochromic lenses are special eyeglass lenses that change from clear to dark when exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays. Since invisible UV rays are present in sunlight, photochromic lenses automatically get darker outdoors while protecting the eyes at the same time from the harmful effects of UV.

Remove the exposure to UV rays, and photochromic lenses return to their clear state. Since photochromic lenses are clear indoors and get darker outdoors automatically, they are popular all-purpose lenses available in a wide range of styles and prescriptions.

Photochromic lenses can be enhanced even further with popular additional treatments like anti-reflective (AR) coatings for cutting glare, scratch-resistance for protection, and built-in UV protection to ward against the harmful effects of UV rays.

For in-depth information on photochromics in general, and on Transitions® lenses, the world’s leading supplier of photochromic lenses, visit the Your Eyeglasses section of the EyeGlass Guide.