Glasses lenses come in a variety of colors these days. While clear lenses used to be the only option, technology has enabled lenses to be tinted in different hues. Colored lenses serve both fashion and functional purposes. Some people enjoy having glasses that make a style statement. Others need lenses tinted for medical reasons or to enhance vision in certain environments.
If you’re wondering if you can color your existing glasses lenses or are interested in colored lenses for your next pair, there are a few things to consider. In this article, we’ll look at the different ways to add color to lenses, the benefits and risks of colored lenses, and some tips for choosing the right hue.
Ways to Color Lenses
There are a few main ways to add color to prescription eyeglass lenses:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Tinted lenses | Lenses are coated with transparent dyes during manufacturing to produce uniform tints in various hues. |
| Photochromic lenses | Lenses contain special molecules that darken when exposed to UV light. The tint fades back to clear indoors. |
| Mirrored coating | A reflective metal coating is applied to the lens surface, producing a mirror-like look. |
| Light-reactive lenses | Lenses change color when exposed to visible light. The tint adapts based on lighting conditions. |
| Color overlays | Plastic films in different colors can be applied to the front or back of lenses for a customizable tint. |
The first three methods produce an even, irreversible tint effect across the entire lens. Light-reactive lenses and overlays allow more variety in color and activate the tint in response to environmental light levels.
Benefits of Colored Lenses
Here are some of the potential benefits of wearing colored prescription lenses:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Style | Colored lenses allow you to make a fashion statement with your eyewear. |
| Glare reduction | Tinted lenses can reduce glare from sunlight, water, snow, or other bright environments. |
| Contrast enhancement | Some tints improve contrast, which can aid vision for activities like golf, tennis, or baseball. |
| Light control | Photochromic or light-reactive lenses automatically adjust tint levels for comfort in changing light. |
| Migraine relief | Certain hues like gray, brown, or pink may alleviate light-sensitivity tied to migraines. |
| Macular degeneration | Yellow lenses can enhance contrast for those with age-related macular degeneration. |
The right color can make glasses more stylish while also serving functional visual purposes. Discuss your needs with an optometrist to determine if colored lenses are appropriate for you.
Risks of Overusing Colored Lenses
While colored lenses offer benefits, some precautions should be kept in mind:
– Colored lenses reduce light transmission, so wearing heavy tints constantly can strain the eyes in low light. Have a pair of regular lenses to swap for overly dark environments.
– Heavily tinted lenses worn at night create significant vision impairment and increase accident risk. Avoid dark tints like brown, gray, or green when driving at night.
– Some jobs and activities require use of strictly clear lenses for safety or precision. Check occupational guidelines before wearing tinted lenses.
– Extended wear of colored contact lenses puts eyes at risk for infection and other complications. Only use color contacts as prescribed and give eyes a break with clear glasses.
– Children should avoid heavily tinted lenses as they can inhibit visual development. Most experts recommend clear or lightly tinted children’s lenses.
While colored lenses have benefits, it’s best to use them selectively for the right activities rather than all day, every day. Set realistic expectations for what colored lenses can achieve and integrate them into your eyewear wardrobe in moderation.
Choosing Color for Your Lenses
If you’re interested in adding color to your next pair of glasses, keep these tips in mind:
– Consider your primary purpose – is it purely cosmetic or for vision enhancement? This will help narrow suitable hues.
– Lighter tints like rose, amber, or gray adjust vision minimally. Darker options like blue, green, or brown have more significant impact.
– Match lens color to common lighting conditions to minimize eye strain. Yellow lenses boost contrast on overcast days while brown lenses reduce glare in sun.
– Complement skin tone with colored frames and lenses. Warm amber and rose flatter warmer complexions while cool blue adds vibrancy to neutral skin.
– Try out colored lenses first with inexpensive clip-on shades to ensure you like the look before investing in prescription tints.
– Work with your optometrist to select colors that suit your needs and follow their guidelines for healthy wear.
Adding Color to Existing Lenses
If you already have clear prescription lenses, you have alternatives for temporarily coloring them:
| Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Clip-on shades | Inexpensive plastic films clip magnetically onto frames over lenses. |
| Slip-over shades | Color sleeves slide over frames and adhere statically to lenses. |
| Color drops | Liquid dyes can permanently tint hard resin lenses. |
| lens coatings | Optical shops can apply custom coating for sun protection and tint. |
Clip-ons and slip-overs allow you to reversibly change color whenever needed. Liquid dyes and professional coatings permanently alter the lens color. Consider disposable options first to test colors before permanent tinting.
Conclusion
With all the lens color options available today, you can absolutely give your glasses a colorful boost. The right hue can transform the look of your frames, sharpen your vision for activities, and even soothe eye issues like migraines. Consider your needs, limitations, and lifestyle to select a lens tint that works best for you situationally. With the right approach, you can comfortably see the world through rose-colored, blue, brown or any shade of lenses you desire.