Many people who require corrective vision aids prefer contact lenses over glasses. They offer a more subtle appearance and make activities like sports easier since they are not as easily jostled. Transition lenses are the latest technological advancement in the field, as the guide below explains.

How Do Transition Contact Lenses Work?

Each lens contains trillions of photochromic molecules. A chemical reaction causes these molecules to change their structure and darken when exposed to bright environments. As such, these innovative lenses change from clear to dark depending on the available light in the room. 

What Are the Benefits of Transition Lenses?

The muscles of the iris—the colored part of your eye—control how much light enters the eye. When you're in a darker space, the iris opens more to allow more light in; when it’s light out, the iris contracts through an involuntary muscle reaction to do the opposite. Fluctuating levels of brightness can stress the eye muscles, resulting in strain. 

With transition lenses, the impact of photostress—exposure to intense illumination—is decreased. You can go from indoors to outdoors without having to squint or reach for your sunglasses. Transition lenses also protect against UV radiation, which is linked to an increased risk of conditions like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

Acuvue® Oasys Contact Lenses with Transitions™ Light Intelligent Technology™ offer 100% protection against UVB rays, for example. It takes less than a minute for the lenses to darken and about 1.5 minutes to transition back to clear in more dimly lit surroundings. The lenses are reusable, lasting up to two weeks.

Matthew H. Lipparelli, O.D., of Elko, NV, has been providing top-quality vision care since 1991. This family-oriented eye care center works with patients of all ages, starting from five months of age onwards. In addition to providing eye exams and corrective vision aids, like contact lenses and eyeglasses, Dr. Lipparelli is board certified in the treatment and management of diverse ocular diseases. He and his team make patient satisfaction a priority and even offer Saturday appointments for your convenience. Visit their website for a list of services. Schedule your eye doctor appointment by calling (775) 753-5353.