When photochromic lenses are exposed to UV light, trillions of photochromic molecules in the lens begin to change structure. This reaction is what causes the lenses to darken.
All light-adaptive lenses use photochromic molecules. the superiority of Transitions®️ brand technology lies in our exclusive, patented formulas. Each formula is built into the surface of the lens. These molecules continuously and smoothly recalibrate so that the optimal amount of light reaches your eyes whether you're in bright sunlight, under clouds, or indoors.
FROM NORMAL LENSES TO EXTRAORDINARY TECHNOLOGY
Transitions photochromic technology becomes an integral part of the lens through one of two specialized processes.
One process is called immersion. Derived from the Latin imbibere meaning "to drink in", this method uses heat to draw the photochromic dye into the lens itself. After absorption is complete, a scratch-resistant coating is applied to the surface of the lens.
Some lens materials are not easily absorbed. In these cases another method called Trans-Bonding™ is used. Where immersion places the photochromic technology below the lens surface, the patented Trans-Bonding places the photochromic technology on the surface of the lens.
Both the imbibing method and the Trans-Bonding method provide the same uniform tint color, regardless of differences in lens thickness caused by lens prescriptions. At Transitions Optical we develop and tailor our processes for optimal photochromic performance, lens durability and compatibility with other lens treatments such as anti-reflective coating.
BEHIND THE WINDSHIELD
Most photochromic lenses react primarily to UV light.
In the car, the glass in car windshields blocks most of the UV light. This is why most photochromic lenses do not provide sufficient dimming in the car. But the special photochromic molecules in Transitions®️ XTRActive®️ lenses respond to both UV light and natural (visible, clear or white) light, so they can darken in the car – something no clear lens can do.
We also recommend a pair of prescription sunglasses. Transitions® Drivewear® lenses enhance the driving experience by combining two of the most advanced technologies in the eyewear industry. NuPolar® Polarization eliminates glare from the road and the hood of the car. Transitions photochromic technology adjusts the color and tint of the lenses as light conditions change.
TRANSITIONS XTRACTIVE TRANSITIONS INSTRUCTIONS
TEMPERATURE AND ITS EFFECT ON PHOTOCHROMIC TECHNOLOGY
The molecules in photochromic technology work by reacting to UV light. However, temperature can have an effect on the reaction time of the molecules. When the lenses become cold, the molecules begin to move slowly. This means it will take a little longer for the lenses to adjust from dark to clear. When the lenses heat up, the molecules speed up and become more reactive. This means they will fade faster. It can also mean that if you're outside on a hot sunny day, but sitting in the shade, your lenses will more quickly detect the reduced UV rays and lighten their color. Whereas, if you are outside on a sunny day in a cold climate and then move into the shade, your lenses will adjust more slowly than in a warm climate.
Transitions scientists are constantly striving to improve our technology and create formulations that find the perfect balance between UV radiation and lens temperature. In fact, our newest Transitions®️ Signature®️ GEN 8TM lenses are more responsive than previous generations – darker outdoors, fully clear indoors, and return to cleaning faster than ever.
It's one of the many reasons we're the most recommended photochromic lens brand worldwide.