Green photochromic lenses. Photochromic lenses for glasses, chameleons

Photochromic lenses have become one of the main trends in modern Optics. Today, spectacle lenses with this technology provide many benefits to the spectacle wearer. Especially in combination with plastic (organic) high refractive index lenses.

These products can be found from many eyeglass lens suppliers. However, there are completely opposite opinions among Opticians and Clients regarding .

When we talk to a Client about photochromic lenses, every Optician is familiar with the question: “What happens if I drive into a tunnel?” The supposed “danger” in this issue was circulated in the press several decades ago, and is still fresh in the minds of many Consumers.

The answer to this question is very simple - due to the properties of car glass (windshield or side), glasses with photochromic lenses are unlikely to darken in the car. Of course, this does not apply when you are eating in a convertible. It is important to understand that photochromic lenses are not sunglasses.

A common, and certainly justified, objection from eyeglass lens manufacturers is that they do not want to combine everything specifications in one pair of glasses. Since the need for sunscreen and other special glasses, in addition to glasses, for constant wear.

Thus, let's focus our attention on the individual assessment “for or against”. It goes without saying that thanks to intensive scientific research and developments, the number of “negative” features of photochromic lenses has decreased significantly.

transparent indoors quickly tinted sunscreens in the sun

The invention of the first photochromic lens took place more than 40 years ago. In 1964, we received the first report on a borosilicate lens doped with silver halide crystals. The name “photochromism,” by the way, is much older - already in 1899 it was used to describe changes in crystalline chemical compounds that reversibly change their color when exposed to light.

Photochromic lenses are known to darken when exposed to ultraviolet light (UV radiation). This is the main factor influencing the darkening reaction of the pigment molecules in the lens. However, this is not a “one-way street”, since the processes of darkening and brightening the lens occur in parallel.

The processes of darkening and clearing in photochromic lenses are influenced by many factors: temperature environment, sunny and geographical position. For example, known fact that sometimes photochromic lenses darken much more in cold and cloudy weather than on a warm and sunny day.

Today, almost all eyeglass wearers are aware of the dangers caused by ultraviolet rays (UV radiation). This provokes discussions about intellectual . Many opticians believe that changing light levels strain the eyes.

This process occurs in everyday situations, such as bright neon lights in a department store, bad light in the office at the computer, diffused light when driving in the rain or while spending time in the fresh air. Under these conditions, light-sensitive Clients complain of constant blinking, red eyes and headaches.

At the same time, people who wear photochromic lenses made of plastic have realized that the main application of this type of lenses is not in the extreme positions: “completely transparent” or “completely darkened”, but, above all, in large quantities variations between these positions.

It is for the universal convenience and ease of use in everyday situations that Clients love and purchase these lenses again. Photochromic lenses offer the glasses wearer excellent protection against and, not only in ideal conditions, but also with minute-by-minute changes in lighting conditions. So why not combine superior visual comfort with superior protection and clarity of vision?

At Premium Optics, calm, relaxed vision in lightweight, aesthetically pleasing lenses has become the standard. A good Optical Consultant will not offer his demanding Clients simple photochromic lenses with a standard refractive index of 1.50 (CR-39 material, for example), especially when the frame is “screwed” or “on a fishing line”.

If necessary, he will use photochromic lenses with a refractive index of 1.67, for example. These extremely thin and durable lenses not only provide excellent UV protection, they are also perfect for active outdoor activities. To create this lens, SEIKO uses a unique MR-10 material with “shockproof” features.

Another additional opportunity for Clients with high diopters was the release by SEIKO of the world’s thinnest plastic photochromic lenses with an ultra-thin refractive index n=1.74. Today, these photochromic lenses () set a new standard for aesthetics and lightness. They are suitable for creating fashionable, modern glasses, even with large prescription requirements.

This is why, in this situation, photochromic mineral lenses (glass) are at a disadvantage. In these lenses (with the exception of clear lenses), pigment molecules (halides) are distributed throughout the base material. It turns out that the photochromic reaction depends on the diopter of the lens. In a “minus” lens, the base of the material is thin in the center, and thickens towards the edges - accordingly, photochromic darkening is weaker in the center of the lens, relative to the edges. In a “plus” lens, it’s the other way around: the base of the material in the center is thicker, so the darkening in the center of the lens will be stronger than at the edges.

Photochromic plastic lenses do not immediately become photochromic while they are “half-finished”. Today, the most common photochromic technology is Transitions. It is offered by many major eyeglass lens suppliers.

For example, photochromatization of SEIKO SSV 1.67 Transitions spectacle lenses is the application of a mixture of a photochromic substance (group of molecules) to the front surface of a 1.67 “semi-blank”. Penetration into the lens material occurs approximately 0.15 mm inward, evenly distributed over the entire surface of the lens. The process is called “trans-boarding”. This allows the photochromic lens to darken up to 85% of the tint, regardless of diopter. detailed information Transitions technology is a mystery comparable to the Coca-Cola recipe.

Regarding the safety of driving a car, there are no restrictions: photochromic lenses are completely suitable for recognizing traffic lights and driving in the evening or at night.

The fundamental criterion for the quality of plastic photochromic lenses is the reaction speed, which currently reaches several seconds. Today, photochromic lenses in super-high (1.67) or ultra-high (1.74) refractive index achieve over 60% tint within 30 seconds at room temperature of 23 degrees.

Transitions photochromic lenses also lighten very quickly. In their lightest state, SEIKO Transitions photochromic lenses transmit almost 95% of the light entering them. That is, indoors, they are absolutely transparent. At the same time, they “cut off” harmful “UV radiation” with a wavelength of up to 395-400 nm - this is one of the highest levels of UV protection.

Today, mineral photochromic lenses (glass), which previously had the advantage of being scratch-resistant, are fading into the background. It's all about the development of high-tech "hard coatings" on plastic photochromic lenses that prevent damage from occurring. For example, all SEIKO Transitions lenses automatically have a double-sided coating that includes a clear optical varnish (HardCoat) that protects against minor damage and scratches.

Thus, photochromic plastic lenses with a maximum refractive index are suitable for absolutely everyone for daily use.

Reference Information:

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Glasses with photochromic lenses differ from regular glasses in that they are able to change color according to the light around them. When indoors, these lenses look the same as regular lenses, with diopters. The same applies to night time, when these lenses are transparent, like any others intended for vision correction. But on the street, especially in bright sunlight, these glasses miraculously transform into sunglasses. And if you find yourself indoors again, the lenses become transparent again. In connection with this property, photochromic glasses have another name - chameleons.

How photochromic lenses work

To understand how such glasses work, you need to understand what they are and why glasses change their color and properties.

Photochromic lenses for glasses contain special substances, due to which, when exposed to ultraviolet radiation, their structure changes and the color of the lens changes. But as soon as the UV radiation stops, the glasses regain their transparency.

Previously, the rate of darkening was strongly influenced by air temperature, that is, not only illumination was the main influencing factor. If it was very cold outside, the lenses darkened quickly, and this did not always happen at the same speed on a hot sunny day. But now manufacturers of these progressive accessories use modern technologies for the production of higher quality photochromic lenses. Therefore, air temperature no longer has such a strong influence on both the rate of darkening and its degree.

Advantages of chameleons

Such glasses have a number of advantages compared to ordinary sunglasses or for vision correction:

1. Photochromic glasses are ideal for myopic people who are forced to use prescription sunglasses outdoors and change them to regular ones indoors. In this case, the expression “Kill two birds with one stone” applies, since photochromic lenses with diopters solve two problems at once. They also have a significant advantage in terms of price-quality ratio.
2. There are spectacle lenses that are capable of darkening not only on the street, but also in glassed rooms. For example, in a car they will act exactly the same as in sunlight. Therefore, drivers no longer have the problem of being able to use the same accessory both while driving and on the street. Photochromic glasses lenses with diopters easily cope with this task.
3. Chameleons effectively protect their eyes from ultraviolet rays, which are harmful to vision. Also, thanks to photochromes, additional stress is removed from the eyes, and what is visible becomes clearer and more contrasty. Consequently, the visual organs are less tired and maximum protection is provided for them.
4. Doctors have a reasonable opinion that chameleons have a beneficial effect on the condition of the retina, reduce the risk of developing cataracts, etc.

Which ones are better?

There are mineral photochromic lenses, as well as organic ones. To choose the best photochromic lenses for yourself and figure out which ones are preferable, you need to find out what they are, what materials they are made of, and you can also read reviews.

Mineral lenses have the following properties:

• High level of UV resistance.
• Since they are made of glass, they are more difficult to scratch.
• But such glasses are more fragile and slightly heavier in weight compared to more advanced polymer ones.
• Mineral lenses are more suitable for people with very low level diopters, since they can be made thinner due to the high refractive index.

Properties of polymer spectacle lenses:

• Plastic glasses are considered safer and more durable.
• Lenses of various shapes can be made from this material, thereby expanding the choice of eyeglass frames.
• Their low weight compared to glass ones makes them more progressive and comfortable to wear.

There are also special motorcycle glasses designed for motorcyclists.

They are not just a beautiful accessory, but also perform important functions:

• Photochromic motor lenses have an anti-fog effect.
• Protects eyes from very bright sunlight.

The frame of the motorcycle glasses is made of a special, damage-resistant material. There is a lot about this accessory positive feedback from the owners. Motorcycle glasses demonstrate an excellent price-quality ratio. Reviews allow you to decide on glasses from a specific manufacturer and understand which ones are better.

Modern technologies have made it possible to create special photochromic contact lenses, both with and without diopters. This is considered a great achievement of science.

Contact lenses are able to react much faster to changes in lighting compared to ordinary glasses. It is believed that the photochromic appearance of contact lenses is the best option for athletes, for example tennis players.

So, photochromic glasses are a progressive accessory, ideal for people who love to drive. active image life. It is also an excellent means for vision correction, which not only allows people with visual problems to see well, but also provides a protective barrier for the eyes from harmful ultraviolet radiation.

Excessively bright sun can damage your eyes and discourage you from going outside in clear weather. If you have poor vision, it is inconvenient to wear sunglasses, and your wallet does not always allow you to have special tinted ones in addition to the regular ones. But even in this situation there is a way out - photochromic lenses, or so-called chameleon lenses.

Glasses with such lenses indoors are no different from ordinary ones. But as soon as their owner goes out into the light, the lenses themselves darken to the required level, protecting the eyes from exposure to ultraviolet rays. All this is thanks to special photochromic elements added at the manufacturing stage. They react to sunlight and darken, thereby protecting the user's eyes.

When choosing photochromic lenses, you need to rely on several very important criteria:

1. Darkness level (minimum). It is important to pay attention to the minimum parameter, which shows how transparent the lens is in its normal state. The lower the value, the more transparent they are.
2. Darkness level (maximum). A parameter that shows how dark the lens can be in bright sunlight. The most great importance today – 90%. The higher the number, the darker and more expensive the glasses.
3. Speed ​​reaction. Old lenses took a very long time to darken and lightened for the same amount of time. Modern materials allow you to increase the speed of reaction of photochromes to sunlight.
4. Carrying in a car. If such glasses are needed for use in a car, then it is worth checking whether they will darken the interior (that is, whether they react to visible light).
5. Additional coverages. Most manufacturers make glasses using Transitions technology and add coatings themselves. These coatings can be different - dirt-repellent, ultra-durable, and so on. So you can choose according to your taste.

Not only the cost of one lens, but also the wearing comfort will depend on these parameters. At correct selection you will be able to find the perfect option. In our rating of the best photochromic lenses, we have selected the most successful options with reasonable prices. The models are selected according to the most advantageous characteristics and reviews from ophthalmologists. Remember: the price is for one piece, not a pair.

TOP 5 best photochromic lenses

5 Cantilen Clear Vision Photo 1.56

The cheapest photochromes
Country Russia
Average price: 1200 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.3

Russian single vision lenses in a spherical polymer design. They belong to the budget class of photochromic options and do not have the quality of more expensive analogues. However, the model is able to protect from sunlight at a decent level, so it copes with its main function. I'm glad that the manufacturer added an excellent Clear Vision coating, which has many functions. In addition to traditional strengthening and dirt-repellent properties, it also protects against electromagnetic waves. A special feature is a polarizing coating, so now there will be no unnecessary glare or double vision in the eyes.

There are not many diopters here - only from -8 to +6. There is no cylinder provided at all, so the model is not suitable for astigmatists. The lenses will be relatively thick at large diopters, since the refractive index is only 1.56. Available in two diameters - 65 and 70. You can choose from two standard colors - brown and gray. Interestingly, the dimming in calm state they do not - such photochromic lenses are perfectly transparent indoors. For the same reason, they are not suitable for drivers, although a polarized coating can improve driving comfort.

4 Rodenstock Perfalit 1.54 ColorMatic

The best ratio of price and quality
Country: Germany
Average price: 2950 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.4

Inexpensive but high-quality photochromic lenses made of organic polymer. German quality pleased me here too. For a reasonable price you can get good lenses middle level. Capable of providing up to 85% dimming in bright light. Indoors, they do not become completely transparent - the residual effect retains approximately 8% darkness. The lens is not the thinnest, the refractive index is only 1.54. But the polymer material made it possible to make it thinner than plastic and, especially, glass analogues.

The diopter range is frankly small - only from -6 to +4. There are two diameters - 65 and 70 millimeters. Available in two standard colors – brown and grey. The lenses themselves are coated with one of two options: SPP or Duralux. The first is a nanotechnological coating with many functions, from brightening to dirt-repellent and strengthening. Duralux simply makes the surface more durable and resistant to physical damage. The good news is that the lens quickly reacts to changes in illumination - it takes several tens of seconds for it to change color.

3 HOYA DriveWear Hi-Vision Aqua 1.5

Best for drivers
Country: Japan
Average price: 10,000 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.5

Japanese quality especially for drivers. These photochromic polymer lenses were created for those who spend a lot of time behind the wheel. They have everything you might need on the road - high-quality polarizing coating and sensitive photochromic, capable of changing the degree of darkness in a matter of seconds. The color changes very softly from light yellow-green to rich brown, maximum darkening is up to 85% outdoors. In a car, the lenses will only be darkened by 50% to create comfortable conditions for driving.

The lens is single-focus; manufacturers provide diopters from -9 to +7.5, but, unfortunately, a cylinder is not provided. There is only one color, the signature green-brown. But there are three coating options - HVA (anti-reflective and dirt-resistant), SHV (durable and anti-reflective) and HVLL (a combination of the previous two with increased durability). All three options are slightly greenish (up to 25%) even in the absence of darkening factors. Taking into account polymer material lens of moderate thickness - refractive index 1.5. An important clarification: you can only use glasses during the day; they are not suitable for night driving.

2 Essilor 1.59 Airwear Transitions Signature 7 polycarbonate Crizal Alize + UV

Best for use on a computer. Wide range of diopters
Country: France
Average price: 6200 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.7

The manufacturer has tried to make really high-quality and universal photochromic lenses. And the French did it. This is a durable, thin and lightweight lens that can easily save your eyes from excessive ultraviolet radiation. It is made of impact-resistant polycarbonate treated with a special Crizal Alize+ UV coating. It endows the surface with many useful characteristics– it is perfectly smooth and transparent, it is easy to clean it from dirt. Important Feature– dust and dirt will not linger on the lens, so you will have to clean it less often.

This particular photochromic spherical model is single vision, you can purchase options from -12 to +7.75 diopters. In addition, it is easy to select the cylinder - from -6 to +5.75. The lens has a refractive index of 1.59 - it cannot be called the thinnest, but it looks quite aesthetically pleasing. The manufacturer provides two shades to choose from – gray and brown. In bright light they darken up to 88%. But in fact, the lenses will have a slight greenish tint even in poor light. I am glad that manufacturers have provided the opportunity to use them when working at a computer due to the increased image contrast and in a car (even at night).

1 Top Vision ASP 1.67 Transitions XTRActive HMC

Maximum dimming in light (90%)
Country Russia
Average price: 9900 rub.
Rating (2019): 4.9

Lenses designed specifically for active people. In bright sun they darken by 90%, which is the best indicator compared to all other models. This is a spherical plastic lens with diopters from -10 to +8.75 and a cylinder from -4 to +4. It is single vision and very thin - the refractive index is only 1.67. There is also a spherical version, but it is noticeably thicker (IP is only 1.5). There are two colors on sale - brown and gray.

There is a multifunctional multilayer coating HMC, which has several properties at once. It eliminates glare, repels moisture and dirt, is antistatic and incredibly durable. Manufacturers have made sure that the model can also be used in a car - it is darkened by 50%, so now driving will become noticeably more pleasant even in sunny weather. But it is worth remembering that the initial darkening of such a lens is 11%, so the tint will be visible even indoors.

Photochromic lenses are a special type of lens that react to ultraviolet radiation and thanks to this they can be shaded depending on the radiation intensity, or brightened if the radiation intensity drops. They are transparent indoors and you use them like regular glasses for reading and working on a computer, for any work indoors in general. When you go outside, the lenses are exposed to ultraviolet radiation and darken. Thus they begin to fulfill the role sunglasses, protecting your eyes from both ultraviolet radiation and glare sun rays.

Which photochromic lenses are best?

In terms of material, today we have a choice between plastic lenses and glass lenses. Glass lenses are available to us only in the so-called photochromic mass. Photochrommas means that the photochrome is present throughout the entire mass of the lens.
What does this give? this gives fairly good photochromic properties with a small lens thickness. When the lens thickness is large (lens plus 6), then due to the difference in thickness from the center of the lens to the edge of the lens, the photochromic elements react with at different speeds. Thus, it turns out that the photochrome reacts faster along the edge than in the thick center. In this case we don't get much good effect, when photochrome begins to act only at the edges and very slowly reaches the center. Thus, uneven darkening of the lens does not give the consumer desired effect, the desired dimming speed. It is worth remembering that a plus lens will darken faster at the edges because it is thinner at the edge and slower to darken in the center because it is thicker at the center. The negative lens, on the contrary, will darken faster in the center, since the negative lens is thin in the center, and darkening will occur more slowly at the edges, since the edges of this lens, on the contrary, are thicker. Such a lens meets all the characteristics of a photochromic lens - it completely protects our eyes from ultraviolet radiation, but does not fully satisfy us with the darkening speed and thus does not fully satisfy our aesthetic needs, that is, its cosmetic effect is reduced.
It is also important to note that there is another disadvantage to mineral lenses and this disadvantage is related to the choice of frames. We cannot put mineral lenses in forest frames and rimless frames, because the lens is fragile and will simply crumble if we try to put it in this type of frame.

Plastic lenses will not limit us in choosing the type of frame. We can insert them into both regular rimless frames and forest and rimless frames. Plastic lenses give us much more freedom.

Modern technologies make it possible to use so-called film technologies for applying photochromic coatings and thereby fully satisfy our needs in terms of aesthetics, clearing speed and other characteristics. Global manufacturers who use the latest technologies apply the so-called photochromic film, which is applied in a separate layer to the lens and when exposed to sunlight, the photochromic layer reacts, and not the entire mass of the lens.

What benefits does this provide to the user?

The first is the fastest possible darkening and the fastest possible brightening, because a very thin layer reacts.

Secondly, darkening and brightening occurs evenly over the entire surface of the lens, regardless of the thickness of the lens and regardless of whether the lens is positive or negative.

Third, a polymer lens is lighter and less traumatic than a glass lens. When the lens is deformed there is no such high degree risk for the glasses wearer.

Plastic or glass lenses? which lenses are better?

Users of spectacle lenses today have enough big choice in terms of both price and the technology they can use in their glasses. Mineral glass lenses are more accessible, the cheapest, but heavier, and at the same time more dangerous.

Plastic lenses are lighter, more aesthetic, less dangerous, but since they use more modern technologies, they become more expensive and less accessible. At the same time, both plastic and mineral lenses protect our eyes equally well from harmful ultraviolet rays.

One of the most important problems of manufacturers of photochromic lenses in recent years has been to reduce the temperature dependence of the lens, especially during hot periods. That is, if in the cold when low temperatures the lens works perfectly, there have never been any complaints about this, but in hot weather, when lenses are most in demand, the lens, on the contrary, did not fully meet our expectations, that is, it darkened not by 60-70%, as it should, but by 30-40%, maximum 50%.
The new generation lenses are less temperature dependent and therefore even in hot weather, somewhere in a hot climate where there is intense sun, they darken better and more closely meet the expectations that we place on them. New products in the field of photochromic lenses are lenses called Transition Extra Active, which are offered by French manufacturers. These lenses do not just react to ultraviolet radiation, these lenses react to the visible spectrum of light radiation, that is, they are able to darken to a certain extent even if the effect of ultraviolet radiation is not direct, but simply the effect of solar radiation on the lens. Thus, these lenses also work behind the windshield of a car, and they can even work in a room where there are very large stained glass windows, large windows.

In addition, manufacturers of photochromic lenses have prepared another surprise for users: photochromic transition lenses of a new generation, already the 7th in a row. By and large, this is an improved version of previous photochromic lenses with new technologies, new developments that allow these lenses to brighten the room faster and darken faster.

Photochromic glasses – perfect choice for people with vision problems. One product can protect against ultraviolet radiation and increase eye sharpness. The optics are suitable for indoor use different levels illumination When exposed to UV rays, the eyepieces darken after Negative influence stops, glass acquires regular color. Unique chameleon lenses are created from innovative raw materials that react to two types of ultraviolet radiation: A and B.

The purpose of such products is to adjust the darkening level of the eyepieces depending on the level of room illumination. Outdoors, when exposed to sunlight, the lenses darken. In the room, the product again becomes transparent and takes on the characteristics of ordinary glasses for vision correction. Photochromic elements are responsible for changing the shade, which react sharply to UV rays and lighting intensity.

Chameleon glasses act as a kind of filter that transmits a limited amount of light flux. This protects the organ of vision from excess ultraviolet radiation. However, the product is not designed for long stay under direct sunlight. If you are planning to go to the beach, you should stock up on classic tinted glasses.

Photochromic lenses work well under any temperature fluctuations; they do not fog up and do not lose their light-sensitive characteristics. This product is recommended in the following cases:

• Problems with visual acuity;
• Thinning retina;
• For preventive purposes against the development of cataracts;
• UV blocking.

Also chameleon sunglasses Suitable for people who spend a lot of time in the direct rays of daylight: fishermen, athletes, drivers.

Photochromic lens material

There is a wide range of products on the market. However, before purchasing, you should consult with an ophthalmologist and undergo a visual acuity test. Organic or inorganic (mineral glass) raw materials are used to make lenses. The models also differ in the degree of refraction of light fluxes.

The mineral photochrome is distributed evenly in the liquid glass during the cooking process. Several methods are used to create organic eyepieces:

• Glass impregnation;
• Volumetric distribution of photochrome over the entire surface;
• Application of a unique coating.

Creation technique organic lenses has been used for a very long time, it is often used in SunSensors technologies. Impregnation (imbibing) is characterized by the introduction of elements in a uniform layer to a depth of approximately 0.15 millimeters. A protective coating is then applied to the surface of the eyepieces. The technology is actively used by Tranitions Optical.

Application of photochrome is carried out on front side lenses. To securely secure the unique coating, an additional reinforcing layer is applied. Modern products are elastic, withstand mechanical loads well and are made from environmentally friendly raw materials. The universal material provides a high level of darkness outdoors and absolute transparency indoors. Chameleon sunglasses are available in brown or gray.

Photochromic eyepieces are often equipped with a multifunctional coating that ensures wearing comfort. Product designs are varied, expensive models become the “highlight” of any image. Optics are not deformed under influence high temperatures and is scratch resistant.

Varieties

The product is presented in various variations. They can be bifocal, progressive, etc. This allows you to select eyepieces for people suffering from various ophthalmological ailments. Thanks to the use of innovative techniques, chameleons are created with diopter inserts, in accordance with the recipe provided by the person. If there are no vision problems, buy optics without diopters.

According to the production method, eyepieces are divided into organic and mineral. The latter have a long service life, are highly resistant to ultraviolet radiation, but often provide non-uniform dimming.

Organic models do not have this problem, but wear out very quickly and must be replaced. On average, the shelf life of eyepieces is from three to five years, and their darkening ability gradually decreases. For this reason, doctors do not recommend using a new and old lens at the same time, since they will have different effects.

With diopters

This option is suitable for people with vision problems. Previously, they had to carry sunglasses and products to combat refractive errors, which tend to break at the most inopportune moment. With the advent of chameleons, this problem disappeared.

By purchasing quality glasses with photochromic lenses, you can prevent the development of such dangerous pathologies, such as cataracts or retinal dystrophy.

Bicycle

The popularity of this type of transport is increasing every year. Increasingly, young people who care about their health and physical fitness are choosing bicycles. In addition, no traffic jams are scary with it. Both amateurs and professionals need additional eye protection.

Bicycle chameleons equipped with diopter lenses have several advantages:

• Protect from the blinding sun;
• Act as a barrier against harmful ultraviolet radiation;
• Prevents glare from snow (if we're talking about about mountain biking);
• Protect from wind, insects, dust particles;
• Do not allow low-lying tree branches to injure your eyes.

When choosing such eyepieces, pay attention not only to their properties. They should sit well on the bridge of the nose, not fall off, and fit snugly on the sides. It is also worth choosing not glass variations, but purchasing sports models with polymer lenses. This will minimize the risk of eye damage in the event of an unfortunate fall.

For athletes

Photochromic glasses are an indispensable accessory for people who are professionally involved in sports. They not only protect the eyes, but also do not restrict physical activity. Snowboarders, runners, etc. cannot do without chameleons. The product will help you think exclusively about high results, and not about lumps of dust or snow flying into your eyes.

Photochromic eyepieces equipped with diopter lenses independently adjust the degree of darkness depending on weather conditions, protect against UV rays and make it possible to train without regard to the climate.

Such products are universal. They are used by professional athletes and “savage” tourists. Chameleons greatly facilitate the process of moving along the chosen route and ensure the safety of the traveler.

For drivers

Polarized glasses with diopters are a must-have accessory for car enthusiasts. According to statistics, approximately thirty percent of all accidents on the highway occur due to the driver being blinded by the headlights of an oncoming car or glare from puddles. Chameleons with diopters provide complete eye protection and block harmful UV rays.

Previously, drivers could only wear prescription glasses, which did not prevent exposure to ultraviolet radiation on the organ of vision. In addition, photochromes did not darken the interior of the car, since UV rays did not penetrate the glass. Now manufacturers offer models that respond to blue spectrum rays (i.e. short-wavelength). This allows the lenses to darken even behind car windows, additionally relieving the motorist of blinding glare and protecting against ultraviolet radiation.

In bad weather, they acquire a yellow-green tone, in the car interior they become copper, and in bright sunlight they turn brown. The light absorption characteristic is also adjusted, from 65 to 89%.

Benefits of photochromic glasses

Ideal option for patients with poor eyesight. They sometimes have to buy two pairs of corrective products, one (darkened) for being outside, the second (transparent) for working indoors. Chameleons will become an alternative to such optics and will eliminate the need to carry an entire “arsenal” with you.

In the room, the lenses do not darken because the glass does not transmit harmful ultraviolet radiation. Eyepieces have several undeniable advantages:

• Provide protection from UV rays;
• Do not restrict visual vision;
• Allowed for use both indoors and outdoors;
• Prevention of ophthalmological diseases;
• Versatility of use.

Photochromes protect 100% from ultraviolet radiation, while transmitting light well and quickly reacting to the slightest changes in the degree of illumination. At the same time, eye strain is reduced and the contrast of perception is increased. This is extremely important for patients suffering from excessive lacrimation or photophobia.

Who is it suitable for?

Chameleon glasses for vision are an ideal choice for people with vision problems, but at the same time leading an active lifestyle. The products will be an ideal option for car enthusiasts and tourists. Photochromic lenses successfully combine optics for vision correction and eyepieces for sun protection.

There are also medical indicators for wearing chameleons. These include the risk of developing cataracts and dystrophic pathologies of the retina. The use of unique glasses will help this category of patients avoid the progression of diseases and is considered as one of the main measures to prevent their occurrence.

How to choose

To avoid making a mistake with your choice, follow some recommendations:

• Decide what type of lenses you need (bifocal, progressive, etc.);
• The choice of eyepieces depends on your lifestyle. If you regularly spend time outdoors and in the sun, purchase lenses made from mineral raw materials. For those who often work indoors, organic models are suitable;
• Carefully study the assortment presented in the optical salon. It is better to purchase a product from well-known manufacturers. Placing an order for the manufacture of individual lenses will increase the likelihood that the eyepieces will correspond to the indicated dioptres and are made in color scheme, which you like.

TOP 5 best photochromic lenses

When purchasing optics, pay attention to the following factors:

• Minimum degree of darkness. Indicates how transparent the eyepiece is under normal conditions;
• Maximum dimming setting. Shows how dark the glasses will be in bright light. The higher the indicator, the more the product costs;
• Speed ​​reaction. The first models slowly darkened and also “inhibited” returned to their normal state. With modern glasses, the process takes a few seconds;
• Use in the car. If you plan to wear eyepieces in a car, make sure that they will darken inside the car;
• Availability of additional coating (dirt-repellent, ultra-durable, etc.).

The price of the product and the comfort of use directly depend on these parameters. However, we can note the best options with an ideal cost/quality ratio.

Cantilen Clear Vision Photo 1.56

Lenses from a Russian manufacturer. Made of polymer, they belong to budget models. However, they cope well with the main function of protection against UV rays. The eyepieces have an additional coating that not only repels dirt, but also acts as a barrier against electromagnetic radiation.

Diopter range from minus eight to plus six. Since the lenses do not have a cylinder, they are not suitable for astigmatists. At high diopters, the eyepieces will be very thick because they have a low degree of refraction (only 1.56). The product is presented on the market in two diameters - sixty-five and seventy. The color range is limited to brown and gray. The cost of the goods is 1200 rubles.

Rodenstock Perfalit 1.54 ColorMatic

Ideal value for money. The cost of eyepieces is three thousand rubles. Made from polymer of organic origin. In bright light they provide a dimming level of up to 85%. There is a residual effect in the room, i.e. The eyepieces do not become completely transparent.

The diopter range is limited from minus six to plus four. The lens is not very thin, refractive index 1.54. Available in two classic shades – brown and grey. The glass surface is coated with SPP or Duralux. The first is a nanotechnological layer with big amount functions from repelling dirt to increasing durability. Duralex strengthens the eyepiece. The lens reacts almost instantly to changes in light levels.

HOYA DriveWear Hi-Vision Aqua 1.5

Japanese products are intended for motorists. The cost of the goods is ten thousand rubles. The lenses have a high-quality polarizing coating and sensitive photochrome, which changes darkness in a couple of seconds. The eyepiece is single-focus, the diopter range is from minus nine to plus seven and a half. The cylinder is missing. On the street, the degree of darkness reaches 85%, in the car the figure drops to 50%.

They have three coatings: HVA (brightens and repels dirt), SHV (adds strength), HVLL (combines the characteristics of HVA and SHV). The lens has a moderate thickness, refractive index – 1.5. You can wear glasses only during the day; it is not recommended to use them at night.