What are Transition Lenses (and are they worth it?)
If you’ve ever noticed glasses that magically darken outdoors and turn clear again indoors, you’ve already seen transition lenses in action. But what exactly are they, and are they a good choice for you?
What Are Transition Lenses?
Also known as photochromic lenses or light-adaptive lenses, transition lenses contain special molecules that respond to ultraviolet (UV) light. When exposed to UV rays they darken to protect your eyes. When you head indoors, they gradually return to clear. It’s like having two pairs of glasses in one: regular lenses and sunglasses combined.
How Transition Lenses Have Evolved
Older versions of transition lenses were sometimes criticised for being slow to change or not dark enough. But the latest technology has changed that completely. Modern transition lenses:
Darken and clear much faster than before.
Are available in several tint colours, including classic shades like grey, brown and green and other more distinctive colours such as amethyst.
Offer 100% UVA and UVB protection and help reduce exposure to blue light from screens.
Can be made in nearly every prescription type, from single vision to varifocal.
They’re also much more attractive than they used to be, blending seamlessly with designer frames for a modern polished look.
The Benefits of Transition Lenses
✅ Convenience - No more juggling between everyday glasses and prescription sunglasses.
✅ Comfort - Automatically adjusts to your surroundings, reducing glare and squinting.
✅ Eye Protection - Always-on UV protection, even when the lenses look clear.
✅ Value - Two pairs of glasses in one, which can save money over time.
Things to Keep in Mind
Transition lenses have come a long way and much of today’s innovation focuses on fine-tuning how they perform in every environment:
Driving and UV light - because most car windscreens filter out UV light, standard transition lenses don’t darken properly when you’re driving. That’s why brands like Nikon and Transitions® have developed lenses specially designed to darken behind the wheel for greater comfort and glare control.
Environmental factors - extremely cold or hot temperatures can slow the transition effect, but the latest generation has been engineered to adapt quickly and consistently.
Transition speed & darkness - even the best lenses take a short time to darken or clear, they aren’t instant, and may not go as dark as dedicated sunglasses in very bright light. In saying that, the newer photochromic technologies darken and fade faster than ever and achieve deeper levels of tint.
Why Blink Recommends Nikon Transition Lenses
At Blink, we proudly use Nikon Lenswear UK for our lenses - a name synonymous with precision optics and world-leading innovation. They partner with TRANSITIONS® the global leader in photochromic technology.
Nikon / Transitions® photochromic lenses are designed to:
React exceptionally fast to changing light conditions.
Offer true colour clarity, ensuring colours remain vivid and natural indoors and out.
Provide advanced UV and blue light protection, helping safeguard your long-term eye health.
Maintain optical sharpness and lightweight comfort, even in high-index or varifocal prescriptions.
It’s that combination of advanced lens science and premium optical clarity that makes Nikon transition lenses an excellent choice for everyday wear.
For every day wear we usually recommend Transitions® GEN S™ which is the fastest dark lens in the clear to dark photochromic category. Fully clear indoors, it darkens outdoors in 25 seconds and fades back in less than 2 minutes. Perfect for wearers who are looking for the most responsive and dynamic lenses that adapt to changing light conditions.
If driving is a key factor, Transitions® XTRActive® lenses are specially designed to provide you with the best darkness and the best extra light protection from intense light, both indoors and outdoors and even when you are behind the wheel. They are recommended for wearers who are very sensitive to light or frequently exposed to bright lights.
With Transitions® XTRActive® Polarized™ we now have the option to add a polarized filter which reduces glare and shimmer from road surfaces for true sunglass-leve comfort.
Are Transition Lenses Right for You?
Transition lenses are a great choice if you:
Move frequently between indoors and outdoors.
Want convenience and UV protection without switching glasses.
Prefer a sleek, all-in-one lens solution.
They may be less suitable if you:
Drive long distances regularly (even Transitions® XTRActive® lenses only block around 50% of light when driving so prescription sunglasses can still be useful).
Need maximum darkness for strong sunlight or specific outdoor activities.
Learn more
Pop into Blink or get in touch to chat with our team, or book an appointment to see the difference for yourself. We can demonstrate transition lenses in action and help you find the perfect lens option for your lifestyle and favourite frames.
