Photochromic glasses: understanding, benefits, and care
What are photochromic glasses and how do they function?
Using minus glasses in the room and sunglasses when outdoors is not practical. Fortunately, now this problem has been resolved with the presence of photochromic glasses. These glasses have lenses that can change color according to lighting conditions. In the room, the lens will be clear, but when exposed to sunlight, the lens will become darker. This makes the eyes more adaptable to changes in light.
In addition, photochromic glasses are also a solution for those who wear reading glasses or minus glasses. With this type of glasses, users do not need to carry two pairs of glasses for different needs. The following is a complete explanation of photochromic glasses.
1. What are photochromic glasses?
Before buying photochromic glasses, it is important to understand what these glasses really are. Photochromic glasses are a type of glasses that use photochromic lenses. This lens has the ability to transition from clear to dark when exposed to sunlight or other ultraviolet sources. Therefore, these lenses are also known as adaptive lenses, automatic colored lenses, or variable color lenses.
In contrast to sunglasses that have a fixed color, photochromic glasses are able to adapt to the environment. This makes it more convenient to use in a variety of situations.
2. Photochromic glasses type
In the market, you can find various types of photochromic glasses that are tailored to the needs of users. Some common types are:
layered lens
Photochromic glasses with layered lenses do not interfere with certain layers of the lens, such as an anti-reflective coating that helps reduce glare when driving at night.Colorful lenses
Although photochromic glasses usually have a gray color, now there are various color choices such as brown or green.Sports glasses
Several types of photochromic glasses are specially designed for sports activities. The material used is usually polycarbonate or trivex.Bifocal, multifocal, or high index options
Photochromic lenses can also be customized to deal with vision problems such as bifocals or multifocals.
3. Photochromic glasses function
The main function of photochromic glasses is to protect the eyes from ultraviolet rays without having to use additional glasses. This lens can also be a safe choice for maintaining eye health. Generally, photochromic glasses are made of plastic, glass, or polycarbonate.
The way it works is by blocking a number of wavelengths of light through polarization. However, these lenses are carbon-based so the molecules in the lens react to UV, causing the color change to become darker. The brighter the light, the darker the lens. Usually, the glasses will darken in approximately 30 seconds and return to normal in 2-5 minutes in the room.
4. Advantages & lack of photochromic glasses
Some of the advantages of photochromic glasses include:
- Convenient to use because there is no need to carry additional glasses
- Helps reduce eye strain and damage by blocking UVA and UVB
- Protects the eye from the risk of cataracts
- Available in various colors and styles that can be customized to taste
However, these glasses also have some drawbacks, such as:
- can become dark when exposed to sunlight, which is at risk when driving
- affected by the weather
- Some types are not polarized, so it can be dazzling
- The price tends to be more expensive than ordinary glasses
5. Who needs to wear photochromic glasses?
Photochromic glasses are perfect for those who wear glasses every day. This lens can protect the eyes from UV rays without the need to use prescription glasses separately. In addition, these glasses are recommended for children who are often outdoors.
UV rays not only damage the skin, but can also damage the eyes. Therefore, protecting the eyes with photochromic glasses is very important. Thus, these glasses become an effective and comfortable solution for various user needs.
