Ask an Eye M.D. Answer Archive
Question:
I was wondering what they use to make the glasses with transition adaptive lenses work? Is it a type of glass or a tint that is installed in the lenses?
Answer:
This is a new development in lenses which contain a chemical that not only changes (darkens) in brighter light but also has an alignment of the chemical which causes a polarized effect. The company would have you believe that this additional polarized light blocking effect can be helpful and is an improvement over the previous photochromic lenses which darken without the polarizing effect. The lenses are constructed so that the polarizing blockage is horizontal in orientation. Light reflecting off water, snow and certain atmospheric conditions can be blocked by this orientation and so the extra cost of these lenses might be worthwhile if these conditions are part of your lifestyle.
Answered by: Richard Bensinger, MD 
Categories: General Eye Health
Have a question that hasn't been answered yet? Ask it!
Search for Questions & Answers
Meet Our Experts
- Your questions are answered by more than two dozen members of the American Academy of Ophthalmology who volunteer their time with EyeSmart.
-
Learn more about our volunteer ophthalmologists >




