Photochromic Lenses

Photochromic lenses are a game-changer for anyone looking for convenient, two-in-one glasses and sunglasses. These lenses stay clear indoors and automatically darken when exposed to sunlight, offering seamless protection without the need to swap eyewear.

With so many options to choose from, there's a photochromic lens for everyone. Whether you're looking for vibrant colors, polarized protection, or something suited for driving, we've got you covered.

Here’s a quick breakdown of what we offer:

• Zenni Photochromic

  • Fully clear indoors

  • Available tints: Gray, Amber

• Zenni Blokz® Photochromic

  • Blue light protection

  • Virtually clear indoors

  • Available tint: Gray

• EyeQLenz™ with Zenni ID Guard

  • Blue light and infrared (IR) protection

  • Virtually clear indoors with a subtle pink sheen

  • Available tints: Gray, Brown, Purple, Red, Pink, Green, Blue

• Transitions® Gen S™

  • Darken in seconds and return to clear fast

  • Fully clear indoors

  • Available tints: Gray, Brown, Amethyst Purple, Sapphire Blue, Emerald Green, Graphite Green, Amber, Ruby Red

• Transitions® XTRActive® New Generation

  • Extra dark outdoors in sunlight and hot temperatures

  • Hint of protective tint indoors

  • Darkens in the car

  • Available tints: Gray, Brown

• Transitions® XTRActive® Polarized™

  • Dynamic polarization to reduce glare

  • Hint of protective tint indoors

  • Darkens in the car

  • Available tint: Gray

Things to Keep in Mind About Photochromic Lenses

• Car Use: Photochromic lenses generally won’t darken in cars because windshields block UV rays.

• Tint Variations: The degree of darkness and color may vary depending on sunlight exposure.

• Base Tint: Some lenses may develop a slight base tint over time after prolonged use.

Frequently Asked Questions​​​

How do photochromic lenses work?

• Photochromic lenses are made with special molecules that respond to UV light. When you step outside into the sunlight, these light-sensitive molecules change structure, causing the lenses to darken and provide a tinted layer of protection. Once you step back indoors, where there's little to no UV light, the molecules return to their original state, and the lenses become clear again, just like magic!

How long does it take for photochromic lenses to darken?

• The speed of transition depends on several factors, including the type of lens, temperature, and amount of UV light.

  • Temperature: The performance of photochromic lenses is influenced by temperature, and here's how:

    • In Cooler Weather: Lenses tend to achieve a darker tint because colder temperatures slow the reaction of the light-sensitive molecules. However, the transition back to clear takes longer in cooler conditions.

    • In Warmer Weather: Lenses may not darken quite as much, resulting in a slightly lighter tint. The transition back to clear happens more quickly, as the molecules react faster in the heat.

  • Light Intensity: Bright, direct sunlight activates the lenses faster than lower UV light levels on cloudy days.

  • Lens Technology: Advanced lenses, like Transitions® Gen S™, are designed to transition more quickly than standard photochromic lenses.

• On average, photochromic lenses darken completely within 30 seconds to 2 minutes and return to clear indoors within 2 to 5 minutes.

Are photochromic lenses available for progressives and bifocals?

• Yes! You can order standard progressives with any photochromic lens. However, please note that we don’t currently offer photochromic lenses with workspace progressives. For bifocals, the 1.57 Zenni photochromic lenses are available.

Are photochromic lenses good for your eyes?

• Yes! All photochromic lenses offered at Zenni are great options for your general eye health. In addition to blocking 100% of UVA/UVB light, the adaptive, two-in-one nature of photochromic glasses reduces squinting and eye fatigue. For those looking to replace their sunglasses with a photochromic lens, we suggest choosing Transitions® Drivewear®, which will also protect your eyes in the car by darkening while you drive and polarizing in direct sunlight for clearer, sharper vision.

How much do photochromic lenses cost?

• The cost of photochromic lenses will depend on the options you choose during the ordering process. Pricing is displayed as you customize your lenses, with any specialty options, upgrades, or add-ons reflected in the final total.