Photochromic lenses are clear indoors and darken outdoors. A thin layer of molecules in the lens changes shape in UV light, which tints the lens. Out of the sun they relax back and the lens clears. We call ours Indoor / Outdoor lenses: clear indoors, grey polarized sun lenses outdoors.
Same lenses. Same frames. They’re clear indoors and darken into polarized sunglasses outdoors on a sunny day, so there’s no fumbling for your sunglasses when you step outside. Photochromic lenses do both jobs. We call them Indoor / Outdoor lenses.
What are photochromic lenses?
Photochromic lenses are eyeglass lenses that darken when exposed to UV light. They suit people who don’t want to switch between sunglasses and untinted prescription glasses.
The name comes from two Greek words: “photos,” meaning light, and “chroma,” meaning color. The lens changes color in response to light.
How do photochromic lenses work?
Photochromic lenses have been around since the early 1960s. The first ones borrowed from photographic film. They were glass lenses with microscopic silver crystals that turned opaque in light, which darkened the lens. The reaction was reversible. Out of the light, the crystals changed structure again and the lens cleared.
Today’s lenses use an extremely thin layer of organic, carbon-based molecules called naphthopyrans. They do the same job faster. UV light makes the molecules change shape and absorb visible light, so the lens tints. Indoor lighting has very little UV, so the lenses stay clear under it.
Do photochromic lenses block blue light from screens?
Yes. A blue light filter is built into the lens itself, so you get protection from blue light while you work on a computer, tablet or phone. They block UV, too.
Our Indoor / Outdoor lenses
We use polarized photochromic lenses. When they darken, they become grey polarized sun lenses that cut glare, deepen color and give you a comfortable view in bright light.
Any of our prescription eyeglasses or Extended Vision Reading Glasses can be made with Indoor / Outdoor lenses, in frames from L&F, RAEN, STATE Optical and Ombraz.
Have a question about them? Send us a question and we’ll get back to you quickly.
Questions
Do photochromic lenses work in the car?
Only a little. Most windshields block UV light, so photochromic lenses stay mostly clear behind the wheel. If you need sunglasses for driving, a dedicated pair of prescription sunglasses works better.
Are photochromic lenses good for computer work?
Yes. They stay clear under indoor light. Ours also have a blue light filter built into the lens.
Do photochromic lenses darken indoors?
No. Indoor lighting has very little UV. Most modern windows block it too, so the lenses stay clear inside.
Are your Indoor / Outdoor lenses polarized?
Yes. When they darken outdoors they become grey polarized sun lenses, which cut glare.
