Photochromic spectacle lenses (chameleon glasses). Photochromic glasses: their types and features Glass photochromic lenses for glasses

How is photochromism used in optics? What are chameleon glasses? What are their advantages?

A person indoors wearing transparent glasses reads or looks into the distance, and when he goes outside, the lenses instantly become dark and protect his eyes from the sun. Magic? Not at all! Elementary photochromism.

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Smart molecules

The phenomenon of photochromism is based on the ability of the molecules of certain substances (for example, silver and copper) to change their structure under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. In their initial state, these molecules have high degree light transmittance (the glasses are transparent), but as soon as UV rays hit them, they are activated and transmit much less light (the glasses become gray or brown). If the sun disappears, the molecules return to their original state, and the glasses again turn colorless.

It's comfortable. Firstly, vision correction occurs continuously. Secondly, you don’t need to take off your glasses and put on sunglasses when going outside, and do the reverse process when going indoors.

The phenomenon of photochromism was discovered at the end of the 18th century. In the twentieth century, not only physicists, but also manufacturers of spectacle lenses became interested in it.

In 1964, Corning Glass Works released the first photochromic-coated lenses, Photolite. These were glasses with glass lenses on which silver and copper halides were applied. In the 1980s, photochromic coatings began to be applied to organic lenses.

But the real “revolution” occurred in 1991, when PPG Industries and Essilor International merged (Transitions Optical) and jointly developed Transitions technology. This technology has become one of the most popular.

Glass or plastic - what to choose?

Mineral (glass) and organic (plastic) photochromic lenses differ in the production method and some properties. Therefore, the question often arises - which is better?

In glasses with mineral lenses, the photochromic elements are “inside” - they are added when the glass is melted. On organic lenses, photochromic molecules are usually applied “on top”.

In terms of properties, modern inorganic and organic lenses with photochromic coating are practically indistinguishable from each other. However, polymer spectacle lenses“darken” more evenly; in mineral lenses, darkening sometimes “accumulates” along the edges or in the center of the lenses.

In principle, it is not so important what material the glasses are made of - lenses with photochromic coating will in any case protect the eyes from ultraviolet radiation.

Alone instead of a couple

Many people choose glasses with photochromic coating, believing that they will replace prescription glasses and sunglasses. This is true if you alternate between being indoors and outdoors.

Depending on the type of photochromic lenses, they can provide up to 90% darkness, which means they are, in principle, suitable for wearing on the beach. However, most often photochromic lenses are inserted into frames for constant wearing, which is smaller in size than the frame of beach glasses. But this is a matter of aesthetics and personal preference.

The “behavior” of photochromic lenses depends on the air temperature: they darken in the heat, but more slowly and less; in cold weather, on the contrary, the darkening occurs more intensely.

Manufacturers of spectacle lenses are actively working to improve photochromic coatings. Over a million chameleon glasses are sold annually, and demand is only growing. Photochromic lenses are emerging for people who spend a lot of time driving or outdoors, in bright sunshine and at high temperatures. These lenses provide greater darkness and maintain it in hot weather.

There are also lighter photochromic lenses for people who spend a lot of time indoors. Tinted photochromic lenses and lenses with unusual curves are appearing for fashionable frames.

Overall, it is now easy to find photochromic lenses that will suit your lifestyle and the frames you want to wear. And modern coatings will help protect your eyes from UV rays and bright light.

Chameleon glasses can replace two pairs of glasses at once for people with reduced vision. Photochromic glasses are designed specifically for ease of use in rooms with varying degrees of illumination and in sunlight. Chameleon lenses are made of an innovative material that can react to ultraviolet A and B. Let's consider all the properties of photochromic optics and the main advantages.

The principle of operation of photochromic optics

The main purpose of chameleons is to change the degree of darkening of the lenses depending on the brightness of the light. In the sun they darken, indoors they acquire properties regular glasses with transparent glasses. Changing the color of the lenses is provided by photochromic elements that are sensitive to ultraviolet radiation and light intensity.

Lenses work as a filter, allowing a certain amount of light rays to pass through. Thus, they protect the eyes from excess rays. However photochromic glasses not designed for prolonged exposure to bright sun. On the beach, it is recommended to use regular sunglasses with a constant degree of darkness.

In modern optics, they have achieved leveling of the temperature factor: lenses work perfectly at any temperature difference, do not fog up and do not lose their photosensitive qualities.

Indications for the use of photochromic glasses:

• patients with poor vision;
• dystrophic thinning of the retina;
• prevention of cataracts;
• UV protection.

Photochromic optics are also suitable for anyone who spends a lot of time in the sun: athletes and fishermen, drivers and tourists. Athletes can also purchase special glasses with diopters.

Advantages of using photochromic optics:

• eye protection from UV radiation;
• comfortable view of the space;
• can be used indoors and outdoors;
• prevention of eye diseases;
• versatility of application.

Photochromic glasses can be used by people with various visual impairments. The degree of darkening of lenses varies from 15% to 85%, the distribution of photochromic agents in lenses also has its own characteristics.

Optical products are based on two lens manufacturing technologies - the distribution of photochrome to a certain depth and the uniform distribution of agents throughout the entire mass of the material.

Photochromic glasses are especially convenient for people with visual impairments. Previously, they were required to have two pairs of glasses - for outdoors (with diopters) and for indoors. This problem has now been completely resolved.

Photochromic lens material

The modern optics market offers a wide range of high-quality spectacle lenses with a photochromic effect. However, before purchasing optics, you should visit an ophthalmologist and have your vision checked, as well as get advice on choosing the right pair of glasses.

Lenses for photochromic optics can be made of organic or inorganic material(mineral glass), the degree of refraction of rays also differs between different models. What is the difference between these materials?

Mineral (inorganic) photochrome is evenly distributed in liquid glass during cooking. Organic lenses are made in several ways:

• volumetric distribution of photochrome in the mass;
• impregnation (imbuing);
• application of photochromic coatings.

The method of introducing photochromic agents into the mass has been used for a long time and is not developed by any company. It is widely used in SunSensors technologies.

Impregnation technology (imbibing) involves introducing agents in a uniform layer to a thickness of 0.15 mm. Then the surface of the lenses is covered with a protective layer. This technique is widely used by Transitions Optical.

Method of applying photochromic coatings - on front side regular lens, which does not require any modification, photochrome is applied. A special hardening coating is used to fix the photochromic layer.

Modern lenses are impact-resistant, elastic and environmentally friendly. The versatility of the new material provides a good degree of dimming in bright light and absolute transparency in the room. The color of photochromic optics is either gray or brown.

Photochromic lenses for glasses can be supplemented with a multifunctional coating, providing additional comfort. The design is varied and unique. Some expensive models can become a real accessory for creating an image.

Photochromic glasses for glasses have better refractive indices than organic materials and are not subject to deformation when high temperatures and scratching. However, this material is heavier than polymer, so it is not recommended for use by athletes and children.

Technologies for manufacturing spectacle lenses

Technology Transitions

This technology is based on the introduction of photochromic agents to a given depth of the lens body. This method is used by some foreign optical companies - Essilor, Hoya, Sola, Zeiss, Seiko.

If you spend a lot of time outdoors, invest in Transitions Signature sunglasses. The lenses of these products quickly react to radiation flows, changing their tone. Inside the room, the glass becomes completely transparent, like ordinary glasses. On the street, in a bright stream of sunlight, the lenses provide a comfortable view, relieve eye strain, and absorb glare.

If your eyes are sensitive to light, you should choose the Transitions XTRActive brand. This optic is characterized by strong darkening in the light, and in a closed room with bright lighting it retains a pleasant smoky tone. Also, glasses are well suited for drivers, as they tend to absorb solar flow behind the windshield and fight glare.

Transitions Vantage brand glasses are recommended for people with great sensitivity to sun rays. Glasses are suitable for those who spend a lot of time outdoors. Indoors, the lenses become completely transparent. With Vantage brand optics, your eyes are protected from glare, intense sunlight and bright indoor lighting. In addition to protection, optics provide clear images of objects.

SunSensors Technology

SunSensors optics have gained recognition among Russian consumers due to the uniform distribution of the photochromic agent throughout the entire thickness of the glass. 3D colored lenses (solid photochrome) are made from highly refractive materials that provide maximum visual comfort. This technology is used by Hoya, Rodenstock and Kodak.

IN Lately a new technology, SunSensors HPC, was invented to compete with Transitions. Distinctive feature new technology is the service life. While some photochrome molecules lose their original properties, others replace them. Lenses absorb the entire spectrum dangerous ultraviolet radiation B, reliably protecting the eyes from diseases. The lenses also neutralize up to 97.5% of ultraviolet A.

The material used to make the new lenses (plastic photochrome) is lightweight and comfortable. SunSensors HPC instantly responds to changes in light, gently changing the color of the glass from dark to transparent.

Photochromic glasses for drivers

What are photochromic glasses for drivers? Manufacturers produce Transitions DriveWear glasses, which are designed to absorb rays inside the car. The initial degree of darkening of such products corresponds to 50%; with a bright stream of sunny color, the lenses retain up to 89% of the light flux. The optics were developed jointly by Younger Optics and Transitions.

The difference between regular glasses and photochromic glasses is the ability of the lenses to retain both ultraviolet light and blue rays sunlight. The optics protect the driver from blinding glare while driving on the highway. In addition to their protective properties, glasses increase the clarity of visibility of road objects, relieve eye strain, and provide high visual comfort.

These glasses change color depending on the light level. In cloudy weather they become yellowish-green, in the car interior they become copper, and in bright sunshine outside they acquire a brown tint. Their light absorption capacity also changes - from 65% to 89%.

Bottom line

The modern optical industry is developing rapidly, improving its products to increase ease of use. Photochromic glasses for glasses are produced to protect the eyes from an excessive flow of harmful solar radiation, which protects a person from possible diseases of the visual organs.

The convenience of photochromic optics lies in the ability to change the degree of refraction of rays using darkening/brightening of light-sensitive lenses. Now there is no need to wear two pairs of glasses (indoors and outdoors), since photochromic agents cope with any degree of illumination.

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Photochromic glasses can change their light transmittance depending on the light level. In the dark they become lighter, and in sunlight they become darker. That's why they are also called "chameleons". Let's find out how photochromic lenses work, how they are made and whether they can correct vision defects?

What do photochromic glasses mean and how do they work?

Photochromic lenses contain molecules with a photochromic structure. They are part of the material and change their spatial structure under the influence of ultraviolet radiation. In other words, the lenses reduce the brightness of sunlight as they darken and become similar to regular sunglasses. With absence ultraviolet radiation the spatial structure of the molecules changes again, but in the reverse order. Because of this, the lenses become brighter. If they are equipped with diopters, then they can be worn as regular glasses to correct myopia or farsightedness. Indoors, they turn into corrective optics, and in sunlight they also serve as sun protection glasses.

Initially, such glasses were not very comfortable, since their light transmittance changed not only due to ultraviolet radiation, but also due to air temperature. In the cold, the glasses darkened quickly, and on very hot days they could not help achieve maximum darkness. Photochromic lenses manufactured according to modern innovative technologies, practically do not depend on the temperature factor. Regardless of any temperature difference, they do not lose their photosensitivity and do not fog up.

What are chameleon glasses made from?

For photochromic optics, lenses are made from organic (plastic) or inorganic material (mineral glass). When lenses are made from minerals, the photochrome is distributed into the glass when it is in a liquid state. This may cause your glasses to darken unevenly. Photochromic plastic lenses are produced in three ways:

distribution of photochrome in the mass of organic material;

soaking;

applying a photochromic coating.

Such lenses darken evenly in the sun in just a few seconds. However, they deteriorate faster, that is, they lose their functions in changing light transmittance. Mineral lenses are more reliable, but they should also be replaced every 3-5 years. During this time, their ability to darken will completely disappear.

The choice in favor of mineral glasses should be made if you purchase photochromic glasses for vision. They provide good correction and protect eyes from ultraviolet radiation. It is worth considering that photochromic glasses with negative diopters at the edges are thicker than in the center. Hence, peripheral part The lenses will darken longer than the central one. In “plus” lenses, it is the edges that react faster to light, not the center. The degree of darkness of organic and mineral lenses may vary. It depends on how much photochromic substance was in the optical product. The degree of darkness can vary from 10 to 85%. Typically, glass turns grey, grey-green or brown when exposed to ultraviolet light. This is determined by production technology.

Benefits of glasses with photochromic lenses

Photochromic glasses have several important advantages:

There is no need to use several pairs of glasses, that is, for vision and for sun protection.

You can choose a lens design to suit your aesthetic needs and face type.

Can be worn indoors or while driving a car. They will not darken and impair visibility.

They protect the eyes almost 100% from ultraviolet radiation, thereby reducing eye strain, increasing image contrast, and preventing the development of eye diseases.

Chameleon glasses have and medical indications. They are prescribed after the postponed ophthalmological disease or eye surgery. They also help people with hypersensitivity eye to the light. As a preventive measure for cataracts, photochromic glasses are often recommended by ophthalmologists to elderly patients, as well as those who suffer from degenerative retinal diseases.

This type of optics also has minor disadvantages. But every year there are fewer and fewer of them, as lens manufacturing technologies are improved. One of the “cons” is related to the small range of colors. Today there are three types of photochromic glasses based on the number of shades - gray-green, gray and brown.

Another disadvantage of chameleons is their limited service life. They can quickly lose their darkening properties as a result of constant rubbing, as well as scratches on their surface. Now some manufacturers coat glass with a special protective varnish, which increases the service life of the products. Unfortunately, this also affects the cost of such optics. Although it is worth considering the fact that chameleon glasses, in principle, are much more expensive than standard correction products.

Types of photochromic glasses

If we talk about lenses that can correct vision pathologies, then this type of optics, such as photochromic glasses, can be traditional, aspherical, monofocal and progressive. Lens design is selected depending on the diagnosis. For myopia and hypermetropia, you can wear traditional and monofocal glasses; mild degree for astigmatism, aspherical lenses are suitable, and progressive ones are prescribed for diagnosing presbyopia, as well as for age-related farsightedness, developing against the background of myopia. Photochromic glasses are suitable for cyclists, skiers and drivers. Cyclists need complete protection from ultraviolet radiation, bright sunlight, as well as from dust and insects. Photochromic glasses fit tightly to the face in the center and sides. They are made of plastic, since glass is traumatic.

Photochromic glasses are especially suitable for people who engage in skiing and mountain tourism. The relief in the mountains is constantly changing, the terrain becomes more obscured or open. The lenses themselves change the level of light transmission, providing good visibility and protecting the eyes from the sun. Regular sunglasses in the shade will provide a less clear and contrasty picture. Photochromic glasses for drivers have a darkening degree of 50%. This best option for the person who is inside the car. In addition, such optical products are capable of blocking not only ultraviolet flux, but also blue rays of sunlight, which have an impact on harmful effects on retina. Even in the absence of bright light, photochromic glasses for drivers will protect your eyes. As a rule, such lenses turn brown in bright light, and in a car they take on a copper tint.

Are there photochromic polarized lenses?

Polarized sunglasses are made from a substance that can filter out rays coming from objects at an acute angle. In other words, coverage polarized glasses allows you to eliminate glare that occurs when there is a smooth surface and bright sun. Wet asphalt, light in the mountains, objects glowing in the dark create glare that blinds a person. Classical methods cannot get rid of this problem. sunglasses. Polarized ones block glare and ghosting, providing good vision any time of the day. For athletes and drivers, such optics are a guarantee of safety.

Are there any glasses that have photochromic polarizing coating? Today, spectacle lenses are produced that can change the level of light transmission and at the same time remove excess glare. These glasses are suitable for drivers and athletes. Photochromic polarized lenses are quite expensive. However, they perform the functions of photochromic, polarizing and sunglasses.

Which photochromic glasses to choose?

If you have a refractive error, you need to select lenses for your vision. This is done in the ophthalmologist's office. When choosing models without diopters, you should take into account your lifestyle. If you love sports, then choose sports glasses with photochromic properties and polarization. Car enthusiasts need to select lenses that will block ultraviolet and blue light rays.

To avoid purchasing a fake, buy optics in specialized stores. When purchasing, pay attention to the type of lenses. The fins of photochromic glasses must be dark, otherwise they are not photochromic. They just have some kind of coating applied to them. Also, lenses should not distort the image. If, after putting on glasses, the colors and the whole picture seem unnatural, then you should not buy such optics. Along with your glasses, purchase a case and a special cloth for wiping the glasses.

05.04.2017 01:04

Photochromic lenses are made from polymers and mineral glass, which allows the photochromic substance to be evenly distributed in the surface at a depth of 0.20 mm. Thanks to this, the effect of uniform shading is achieved, regardless of intensity optical power. Indoors they will be ideally light, transmitting light, and outdoors they will become dark: gray, brown or green. Today on the optics market there is a wide range of offers for photochromic lenses, from stock lenses to prescription prescription lenses. Let’s take a look at the various options.

How to choose the right photochromic lenses

With this you can reliably protect your eyes from the development of diseases and reduce the intensity of exposure to ultraviolet rays. This is important if you need to constantly be under the scorching sun. To choose the right one, you should take the advice of professionals or read the rating of the best photochromic lenses of 2017 and use them as a guide when purchasing.

Glasses with chameleon lenses are definitely a good purchase, but how well are you familiar with the features of photochromic elements? Why, for example, does one lens cost 2,000 rubles, and another 3,500 rubles? Is it worth overpaying? Let's try to figure it out.

Here are the features you should pay attention to in photochromic lenses:

• Minimum shade level . The transparency of photochromic lenses in their calm state is of three types: 0% (completely, crystal clear); around 3-5% (light, light tint); 10-12% (XTRActive technology, noticeable tint);
  
• Maximum shade level . The maximum degree of darkening in an open space, on a city street, on the beach or in a country house, which we know about is 87%. There are also lenses with maximum darkening in the region of 50-60%. All this affects the cost of the lens.
  
• Lens darkening and clearing speed . If the lens “thinks for a long time”, accordingly the technology for its creation is simpler and older, the price will also be lower than innovative developments. Roughly they say you are buying the speed and intelligence of photochrome adaptation to weather conditions.
  
• Darkening lenses inside the car . Very important point for many of our clients. There are lenses that do not darken at all in the car.
  
• Lens coatings. A lens with a basic set of coatings will always be cheaper than a premium set.
  

All of the above aspects affect the cost of the lens. Most often, the prices for photochromic spectacle lenses are fully justified by the functional set.

Rating of the best photochromic lenses from Ochitos

1. Rodenstock Perfalit ColorMatic IQ 1.54 Solitaire Protect Plus 2

Why is this lens in first place? Top coat SPP 2 consisting of just a bunch of layers of optical varnishes:

1. strengthening;
   
2. enlightening;
   
3. dirt-grease and water-repellent;
   

sounds like a standard soup set, however, it gives a 1-year guarantee on its top coating, in addition to this, Solitaire Protect Plus 2 protects the eyes from the artificial blue spectrum and from UV, respectively. In our opinion, the main advantage is the ability to dim the car up to 30%; you don’t have to pay extra for this beauty, as is the case with Transitions XTRActive. There is a simpler version of this lens, only with a hardening coating (Duralux) and almost half the price. Maximum dimming up to 85%. The cost of this lens is noticeably higher in comparison with Korean photochromic lenses, even if you choose the superb Aquamare coating, you still won’t get darkening in the car.

2. Transitions VII Signature Technology

Why didn't we write some brand of lenses for second place? Because lens manufacturers Essilor, Seiko, BBGR, Nikon, Rupp Hubrach, Shamir, Indo do not have their own photochromic technology, they use developments from Transitions. Next, branded coatings from the specified manufacturers are applied to the lens and you get what you get. Indicate a specific brand in in this case would already mean a battle of coverings, but not photochromic properties. Below is a list of successful combinations of coatings and costs according to Transitions.

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, they do not darken when at rest - 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 be darkened only 50% to create comfortable driving conditions.

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 the polymer material, the lens is 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. It's spherical plastic lens with diopters from -10 to +8.75 and 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.