Glasses with photochromic lenses. What is the best spectacle lenses manufacturer? What brands of contact lenses are you familiar with?

How to choose lenses for glasses? This issue must be approached with great responsibility, since the wrong choice can subsequently harm eye health.

In order to choose the most effective and comfortable spectacle lenses, you need to understand the criteria for their selection:

• refractive index;
• design;
• material;
• coating;
• manufacturer.

Let's consider each of the criteria in order and in more detail.

Refractive index

This is one of the most important criteria, which is reflected in the thickness and volume of the lenses. That is, with a large refractive index, the weight and thickness of the lens will be less than with a small index.

High refractive index is used:

• with a high degree of refractive power;
• with glasses for children;
• in rimless frames.

Lenses with a high refractive index have weak light transmission abilities. This drawback is eliminated by applying an additional coating, which helps brighten the lens and eliminate glare.

These lenses are sold at a very high price, but they have excellent design and are the most comfortable.

Design

By design, lenses are divided into four main types:

Spherical (stigmatic)

Used with standard glasses. Otherwise, they are called spherical for the corresponding shape. The main advantage of this form is its good reflective properties.

Aspherical (astigmatic)

Presented in a flatter form. It has a number of advantages over the spherical one:

• increased image clarity;
• preservation of lateral vision;
• maintaining the size of the eyes (they do not distort when others look at them).

Bifocal

These lenses are divided into two sectors: one is designed to view distant objects (this sector is located in the upper part), the other allows you to view objects located in close proximity (located in the lower part).

Progressive

The progressive view is a complicated modification of the bifocal one. In lenses of this type, the optical characteristics change smoothly, moving from the upper zone (designed for distance) through the intermediate zone (designed to be a small area in the center) to the lower zone (with its help you can view objects up close).

By external characteristics the progressive view is no different from other analogues, since the optical power changes due to a complicated system of surfaces, and not an additional sector.

Only an ophthalmologist can decide which lenses are best designed for a particular person.

Material

Two materials are used to make lenses:

• glass;
• plastic.

Glass is otherwise called mineral. Plastic ones have another name - polymer. In order to decide which material is best, you need to know the main advantages and disadvantages of each type.

Mineral or glass

Several advantages:

• Durability - can be used for a long time and they are not subject to deformation, the glass remains clear and unclouded.
• Protecting the retina from ultraviolet rays - therefore, they are well suited for those who are exposed to sunlight for a long time (drivers, pilots, parachutists).
• High throughput - this parameter is maintained at any level of illumination (this also allows you to apply a polarizing, anti-reflective or anti-reflective coating to their outer part).

A number of disadvantages:

• Low shockproof properties (in this regard, glasses with lenses must be protected and treated carefully).
• Possible discomfort while wearing – glasses with lenses are quite heavy, which is why many people experience discomfort in the bridge of the nose when wearing them. In addition, traces of frame fragrances often remain in this place.
• Slow change in light transmission characteristics - this drawback is clearly manifested in glasses with photochromic lenses, which have different kinds dark shades.

Plastic or polymer

• Light weight - much lighter compared to glass ones.
• Impact resistance – several hundred times stronger than glass analogues.
• Preservation of optical properties in an environment with extreme conditions. Plastic lenses are not exposed to abnormally high temperatures. Great option for those whose work activity associated with similar conditions (for example, a worker in the metallurgical industry).
• Increased security. Compared to glass, lenses made from organic compounds are most resistant to shocks and falls. They break much less often, however, if they do break, their fragments are less dangerous. This option is perfect for people leading an active lifestyle.
• They allow you to express your individuality because... They are easily processed, which allows them to be produced in various variations of shapes and colors.

However, it should be noted that depending on the selected color palette, the perception of the surrounding world is distorted and changes mental condition. Most ophthalmologists often recommend purchasing glasses in subtle colors because they help block infrared and ultraviolet rays without distorting the colors of your surroundings.

• This type has one drawback - the plastic is easily scratched, leaving traces of deformation. Because of this, distortion of the image in the field of view may occur.

But some manufacturers are already producing special coatings that help ensure the preservation of the original appearance and protect this type from mechanical damage.

Lenses made from organic materials are divided into three subtypes:

Thermosets

This organic compounds, which become hard when exposed to ultraviolet radiation. As a result of this process, a three-dimensional structure is formed that does not change its characteristics and shape upon subsequent exposure to heat. This material is used more often than others.

Thermoplastics

Polymers that, when exposed to heat, transform into a viscous and fluid substance. Because of this, large molecules do not change their original chemical structure. Lenses from this material are made through an injection molding process.

Quasi-reactive plastics

Otherwise they are also called quasi-thermoplastics. This is a collection of plastics that, in their properties, are considered an intermediate state between thermosets and thermoplastics. They combine everything positive properties both subspecies.

Knowing the main differences between mineral and polymer types, we can determine which eyeglass lenses to choose to ensure maximum comfort.

Coatings

Used in ophthalmology wide range additional coatings that not only preserve eye health, but also improve comfort when wearing glasses.

The main coatings are:

Strengthening

The most common type. The coating is applied on both sides, that is, both external and internal. Lenses with such a coating are less subject to mechanical stress, which extends their service life.

Enlightening

Apply it once or several times. Thanks to its physical parameters, the reflection of light rays is reduced, which improves the brightness and clarity of the image. Antireflective properties vary depending on the number of layers.

Mirror

This type is applied for a cosmetic effect. The mirror coating gives the glasses a modern, stylish look. It does not affect the optical parameters in any way.

Anti-reflex

Glare on glasses does not look aesthetically pleasing. In addition, their presence makes it difficult to create eye contact with the interlocutor wearing such glasses. To prevent this from happening, an anti-reflex coating is applied to the surface of the lenses. It improves the quality of the picture in the visual field, so that the eyes can receive 10% more light. At the same time, visual acuity improves and tension in the eyes decreases.

Anti-glare

This is an ideal choice for those who are often exposed to bright flashes, whether from cameras or bright light road transport in dark time days.

Hydrophobic

Often, glasses with anti-reflective coating are not resistant to stains. Therefore, to prevent dirt and water from contaminating the surface of the glasses, a hydrophobic coating is applied. It does not allow foreign reagents to attach to the surface. In addition, this type of coating prevents them from fogging when the temperature changes.

Multifunctional

These are coatings that combine several types. The effect of this combination helps to increase the value of the lenses significantly.

Manufacturer

In addition to physical characteristics, when choosing lenses for glasses, you should also pay attention to the manufacturer.

The main manufacturers in the spectacle lenses market are:

• Essilor;
• Hoya;
• Carl Zeiss;
• Rodenstock;
• Seiko.

There is no doubt about the reliability and quality of products from these brands. This confidence in this is due to the solid experience of each company. Their products are manufactured using high-tech equipment in accordance with latest developments in the field of optics.

Among them, the leaders are (these companies have the largest sales ratios):

• Essilor;
• Hoya.

Below are the exact data that shows the ranking of the main manufacturing brands.

Analyzing the data in the presented table, you can see that the brand of the French company Essilor is in greatest demand. Lenses made in European countries (Germany) and Japan are also in good demand.

Exists a large number of various lenses, differing in material of manufacture, in physical properties and other parameters. There are also a number of criteria that can help you choose one option or another. However, the choice in favor of which lenses for glasses is best can only be made by the person himself, after consulting with an ophthalmologist.

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Grigory Vitalievich,
Moscow

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Glasses with photochromic lenses often called chameleons because they change color depending on the light. Indoors or at night, photochromic lenses are no different from ordinary colorless spectacle lenses or have a slight initial tint.

On the street, such glasses darken themselves, practically turning into sunlight in sunscreens. If you go indoors, the photochromic glasses become transparent again.

How do photochromic lenses work?

These properties of chameleon glasses are explained by the presence of special photochromic substances in the lenses. Under the influence of UV radiation, their spatial structure changes, and they stop transmitting light and the lens darkens. In the absence of ultraviolet light, the opposite changes occur and the lens becomes transparent again.

Previously, the speed of darkening of photochromic lenses depended not only on the degree of illumination, but also on temperature environment. In the cold, darkening occurred more quickly than at very high temperatures. So on a very hot summer day the lenses might not reach maximum darkness.

With photochromic lenses produced using the most modern technologies, the speed of darkening and clearing processes and the degree of darkening depend much less on the influence of ambient temperature.

Manufacturing technologies

Photochromic lenses in a darkened state, as a rule, come in two shades - gray and brown, and the degree of maximum darkening can also vary: from weak darkening (10-15%) to strong darkening (80-85%).

Photochromic lenses are produced using various technologies. For example, using Transitions technology, photochromic substances are evenly distributed over the surface of the lens to a certain depth. Many well-known companies- manufacturers of spectacle lenses, such as Essilor, Hoya, Sola, Zeiss, Seiko, produce photochromic lenses using this technology.

According to SunSensors technology, photochromic substances are distributed throughout the material from which the lens is made; such lenses are also called volume-colored. And also a number of companies use this method to manufacture their photochromic lenses.

Hoya, Rodenstock and Kodak produce spectacle lenses from their own polymers with a photochromic agent distributed throughout the mass.

Benefits of photochromic lenses

Photochromic glasses are ideal for people with poor vision. Such people usually have to either purchase prescription sunglasses and, when going out into bright light, change their glasses or wear tinted glasses. Chameleons replace two pairs of glasses: regular glasses + sunglasses with diopters.

Chameleons replace two pairs of glasses: regular and sunglasses with diopters

Photochromic lenses do not darken in a glassed room, since glass does not transmit ultraviolet radiation, so photochromic glasses also “do not work” in a car. However, recently, some well-known companies have begun to produce photochromic lenses, which are capable of darkening not only under the influence of ultraviolet, but also when exposed to short-wave blue rays of the solar spectrum penetrating into the interior of the car.

Thus, drivers who wear glasses for vision correction, and in sunny weather must either use sunglasses with diopters or use special clip-on attachments for glasses, have the opportunity to comfortably drive a car in any weather without thinking about changing glasses.

In addition to the fact that photochromes protect 100% from harmful ultraviolet radiation, they provide the light transmission necessary for the eyes, reacting to changes in outdoor lighting, while reducing eye strain, visual fatigue, and increasing the contrast of vision. This is especially important for those who have developed photophobia or increased tear production.

In addition to visual comfort and convenience, photochromic glasses also have medical indications: as an alternative sunglasses they are recommended for patients suffering from degenerative diseases of the retina and reduce the risk of developing cataracts.

Photochromic lenses can be either mineral or polymer, including polycarbonate. You can also choose almost any refractive index for your photochromic glasses, making them more subtle if necessary.

Photochromic lenses can be coated with a multifunctional coating that gives the glasses the properties you need. Modern photochromic glasses are available in any design: traditional monofocal, aspherical design, progressive.

Photochromic spectacle lenses are very popular among buyers who want to have glasses that not only provide high vision, but also reliable protection from solar radiation.

The purpose of such products is to adjust the darkening level of the eyepieces depending on the level of room illumination. Outdoors, when exposed to sunlight, the lenses darken. In the room, the product again becomes transparent and takes on the characteristics of ordinary glasses for vision correction. Photochromic elements are responsible for changing the shade, which react sharply to UV rays and lighting intensity.

Chameleon glasses act as a kind of filter that transmits a limited amount of light flux. This protects the organ of vision from excess ultraviolet radiation. However, the product is not designed for long stay under direct sunlight. If you are planning to go to the beach, you should stock up on classic tinted glasses.

Photochromic lenses work well under any temperature fluctuations; they do not fog up and do not lose their light-sensitive characteristics. This product is recommended in the following cases:

• Problems with visual acuity;
• Thinning of the retina;
• For preventive purposes against the development of cataracts;
• UV blocking.

Also, chameleon sunglasses are suitable for people who spend a lot of time in the direct rays of daylight: fishermen, athletes, drivers.

Photochromic lens material

Products on the market are presented in wide range. However, before purchasing, you should consult with an ophthalmologist and undergo a visual acuity test. Organic or inorganic (mineral glass) raw materials are used to make lenses. The models also differ in the degree of refraction of light fluxes.

The mineral photochrome is distributed evenly in the liquid glass during the cooking process. Several methods are used to create organic eyepieces:

• Glass impregnation;
• Volumetric distribution of photochrome over the entire surface;
• Application of a unique coating.

The technique of creating organic lenses has been used for a very long time, it is often used in SunSensors technologies. Impregnation (imbibing) is characterized by the introduction of elements in a uniform layer to a depth of approximately 0.15 millimeters. Then apply to the surface of the eyepieces protective covering. The technology is actively used by Tranitions Optical.

Photochrome is applied to the front side of the lens. To securely secure the unique coating, an additional reinforcing layer is applied. Modern products are elastic, withstand mechanical loads well and are made from environmentally friendly raw materials. The universal material provides a high level of darkness outdoors and absolute transparency indoors. Chameleon sunglasses are available in brown or gray.

Photochromic eyepieces are often equipped with a multifunctional coating that ensures wearing comfort. Product designs are varied, expensive models become the “highlight” of any image. The optics do not deform under high temperatures and are scratch resistant.

Varieties

The product is presented in various variations. They can be bifocal, progressive, etc. This allows you to select eyepieces for people suffering from various ophthalmological ailments. Thanks to the use of innovative techniques, chameleons are created with diopter inserts, in accordance with the recipe provided by the person. If there are no vision problems, buy optics without diopters.

According to the production method, eyepieces are divided into organic and mineral. The latter have long term operation, have high resistance to ultraviolet radiation, but at the same time they often give non-uniform dimming.

Organic models do not have this problem, but wear out very quickly and must be replaced. On average, the shelf life of eyepieces is from three to five years, and their darkening ability gradually decreases. For this reason, doctors do not recommend using a new and old lens at the same time, since they will have different effects.

With diopters

This option is suitable for people with vision problems. Previously, they had to carry sunglasses and products to combat refractive errors, which tend to break at the most inopportune moment. With the advent of chameleons similar problem disappeared.

By purchasing quality glasses with photochromic lenses, you can prevent the development of such dangerous pathologies, such as cataracts or retinal dystrophy.

Bicycle

The popularity of this type of transport is increasing every year. Increasingly, young people who care about their health and physical fitness are choosing bicycles. In addition, no traffic jams are scary with it. Both amateurs and professionals need additional eye protection.

Bicycle chameleons equipped with diopter lenses have several advantages:

• Protect from the blinding sun;
• Act as a barrier against harmful ultraviolet radiation;
• Prevents exposure to glare from snow (if we are talking about a mountain bike);
• Protect from wind, insects, dust particles;
• Do not allow low-lying tree branches to injure your eyes.

When choosing such eyepieces, pay attention not only to their properties. They should sit well on the bridge of the nose, not fall off, and fit snugly on the sides. It is also worth choosing not glass variations, but purchasing sports models with polymer lenses. This will minimize the risk of eye damage in the event of an unfortunate fall.

For athletes

Photochromic glasses are an indispensable accessory for people who are professionally involved in sports. They not only protect the eyes, but also do not restrict physical activity. Snowboarders, runners, etc. cannot do without chameleons. The product will help you think exclusively about high results, and not about lumps of dust or snow flying into your eyes.

Photochromic eyepieces equipped with diopter lenses independently adjust the degree of darkness depending on the weather conditions, protect from UV rays and make it possible to train without regard to the climate.

Such products are universal. They are used by professional athletes and “savage” tourists. Chameleons greatly facilitate the process of moving along the chosen route and ensure the safety of the traveler.

For drivers

Polarized glasses with diopters are a must-have accessory for car enthusiasts. According to statistics, approximately thirty percent of all accidents on the highway occur due to the driver being blinded by the headlights of an oncoming car or glare from puddles. Chameleons with diopters provide complete eye protection and block harmful UV rays.

Previously, drivers could only wear glasses with diopters, which did not prevent exposure to ultraviolet radiation on the organ of vision. In addition, photochromes did not darken the interior of the car, since UV rays did not penetrate the glass. Now manufacturers offer models that respond to blue spectrum rays (i.e. short-wavelength). This allows the lenses to darken even behind car windows, additionally relieving the motorist of blinding glare and protecting against ultraviolet radiation.

In bad weather, they acquire a yellow-green tone, in the car interior they become copper, and in bright sunlight they turn brown. The light absorption characteristic is also adjusted, from 65 to 89%.

Benefits of photochromic glasses

Ideal option for patients with poor vision. They sometimes have to buy two pairs of corrective products, one (darkened) for being outside, the second (transparent) for working indoors. Chameleons will become an alternative to such optics and will eliminate the need to carry an entire “arsenal” with you.

In the room, the lenses do not darken, since the glass does not transmit harmful ultraviolet radiation. Eyepieces have several undeniable advantages:

• Provide protection from UV rays;
• Do not restrict visual visibility;
• Allowed for use both indoors and outdoors;
• Prevention of ophthalmological diseases;
• Versatility of use.

Photochromes protect 100% from ultraviolet radiation, while transmitting light well and quickly reacting to the slightest changes in the degree of illumination. At the same time, eye strain is reduced and the contrast of perception is increased. This is extremely important for patients suffering from excessive lacrimation or photophobia.

Who is it suitable for?

Chameleon glasses for vision are an ideal choice for people with vision problems, but at the same time leading an active lifestyle. Products will become ideal option for car enthusiasts and tourists. Photochromic lenses successfully combine optics for vision correction and eyepieces for sun protection.

There are also medical indicators for wearing chameleons. These include the risk of developing cataracts and dystrophic pathologies of the retina. The use of unique glasses will help this category of patients avoid the progression of diseases and is considered as one of the main measures to prevent their occurrence.

How to choose

To avoid making a mistake with your choice, follow some recommendations:

• Decide what type of lenses you need (bifocal, progressive, etc.);
• The choice of eyepieces depends on your lifestyle. If you regularly spend time outdoors and in the sun, purchase lenses made from mineral raw materials. For those who often work indoors, organic models are suitable;
• Carefully study the assortment presented in the optical salon. It is better to purchase a product from well-known manufacturers. Placing an order for the manufacture of individual lenses will increase the likelihood that the eyepieces will correspond to the indicated dioptres and are made in color scheme, which you like.

TOP 5 best photochromic lenses

When purchasing optics, pay attention to the following factors:

• Minimum degree of darkness. Indicates how transparent the eyepiece is under normal conditions;
• Maximum dimming setting. Shows how dark the glasses will be in bright light. The higher the indicator, the more the product costs;
• Speed ​​reaction. The first models slowly darkened and also “inhibited” returned to their normal state. With modern glasses, the process takes a few seconds;
• Use in the car. If you plan to wear eyepieces in a car, make sure that they will darken inside the car;
• Availability of additional coating (dirt-repellent, ultra-durable, etc.).

The price of the product and the comfort of use directly depend on these parameters. However, it can be noted optimal options with an ideal cost/quality ratio.

Cantilen Clear Vision Photo 1.56

Lenses from a Russian manufacturer. Made of polymer, they belong to budget models. However, they cope well with the main function of protection against UV rays. The eyepieces have an additional coating that not only repels dirt, but also acts as a barrier against electromagnetic radiation.

Diopter range from minus eight to plus six. Since the lenses do not have a cylinder, they are not suitable for astigmatists. At high diopters, the eyepieces will be very thick because they have a low degree of refraction (only 1.56). The product is presented on the market in two diameters - sixty-five and seventy. The color range is limited to brown and gray tint. The cost of the goods is 1200 rubles.

Rodenstock Perfalit 1.54 ColorMatic

Ideal value for money. The cost of eyepieces is three thousand rubles. Made from polymer of organic origin. In bright light they provide a dimming level of up to 85%. There is a residual effect in the room, i.e. The eyepieces do not become completely transparent.

The diopter range is limited from minus six to plus four. The lens is not very thin, refractive index 1.54. Available in two classic shades – brown and grey. The glass surface is coated with SPP or Duralux. The first is a nanotech layer with many functions, from repelling dirt to increasing strength. Duralex strengthens the eyepiece. The lens reacts almost instantly to changes in light levels.

HOYA DriveWear Hi-Vision Aqua 1.5

Japanese products are intended for motorists. The cost of the goods is ten thousand rubles. The lenses have a high-quality polarizing coating and sensitive photochrome, which changes darkness in a couple of seconds. The eyepiece is single-focus, the diopter range is from minus nine to plus seven and a half. The cylinder is missing. On the street, the degree of darkness reaches 85%, in the car the figure drops to 50%.

They have three coatings: HVA (brightens and repels dirt), SHV (adds strength), HVLL (combines the characteristics of HVA and SHV). The lens has a moderate thickness, refractive index – 1.5. You can wear glasses only during the day; it is not recommended to use them at night.