The Pros and Cons of Transition Lenses

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If you have glasses and your eye doctor in Portland OR mentioned transition lenses, you might be wondering if they are right for you. Comparing some of the pros and cons will help you decide if getting transition lenses is something you might want to do. But first, we will go over what transition lenses are, in case you don’t already know.

What Are Transition Lenses?

Transition lenses are also called photochromic lenses. They have special lenses that automatically darken when exposed to sunlight or UV light and get lighter in softer light. However, they are designed to remain clear when used indoors.

The Pros and Cons of Transition Lenses

Here are the pros and cons of transition lenses in Portland, OR.

Pros:

  • Convenience. Transition lenses automatically change to a darker shade as you enter sunlight or are exposed to UV light. They will then automatically lighten when you move out of the sunlight or away from UV rays. This automatic transitioning means you won’t have to carry several pairs of glasses everywhere you go.
  • Continual Eye Protection. Your eyes will always be protected, and you won’t have to worry about forgetting to wear your sunglasses.
  • Stylish. Transition lens eyeglasses come in a wide variety of colors and styles, regardless of your prescription.
  • Save Money. Getting transition lenses will save you money because you won’t have to buy prescription sunglasses in addition to your regular prescription glasses.

Cons:

  • Varying Degrees of Transition. Transition lenses will darken and lighten to varying degrees. The extent of this will vary between brands.
  • Cold Weather Performance. Transition lenses take longer to adjust when you are out in the cold.
  • Reduced Performance. When in a vehicle, transition lenses don’t always work as well because some vehicle glass has UV protection built in. The vehicle’s UV protection will on occasion, prevent transition lenses from darkening. However, some transition lenses have been designed to adjust to that issue.

Do You Need an Eye Doctor in Portland, OR?

If you need an eye doctor in Portland, OR, please Contact Asterix Eyewear today. We have been around for 18 years and offer eyecare, sales, service, and repairs. And we are proud to be Portland’s premiere dispensing opticians. We look forward to welcoming you into our comfortable, relaxing office.

Dangers of Wearing Colored Contacts This Halloween

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Colored contact lenses are a popular way for individuals to change the color of their eyes. There’s a surge of individuals using them each year at Halloween to enhance their costumes. Problem is, there are risks associated with cosmetic contact lenses.

Most individuals think that cosmetic lenses don’t require the same level of consideration or care as regular contact lenses simply because they’re easily bought on the internet or over-the-counter. But, all contact lenses are considered medical devices and require proper fitting by an eye-care specialist and a prescription. Not to mention, they can also be dangerous. Here’s how:

1. They’re Not a “One-Size-Fits-All”

An optometrist or ophthalmologist (eye doctor) must measure each of your eyes to fit the lenses properly and evaluate how your eye will respond to wearing the contact lenses. A poorly fit lens could cause serious eye damage, including:

  • Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
  • Scratches on your cornea (this is the clear dome of tissue over your iris — the area of your eye that provides your eye color)
  • Decreased vision
  • Corneal infection (a sore or ulcer on the cornea)
  • Blindness

Never purchase cosmetic contact lenses from a retailer who doesn’t ask to see your prescription.

2. They Can Be Unsafe

In 2017, the Journal of Forensic Sciences published a FDA case report showing a majority of counterfeit, unapproved contact lenses that test positive for the types of microbial contamination often found in spoiled food, water and hospital waste.

3. They Can Be Illegal

Safety and health aren’t the only reasons you shouldn’t purchase non-prescribed contact lenses. It’s also illegal. The Federal Trade Commission’s Contact Lens Rule and the Fairness to Contact Lens Consumer Act (FCLCA) stipulate it’s unlawful for retailers to sell any type of contact lenses without first confirming the validity of the individual’s prescription. But, many retailers might not know this or in some cases, might even choose to ignore these consumer protections which are intended to put the patient’s safety and health first.

If you do have your eyes fitted for contact lenses and receive a prescription, you should be fine wearing a pair of Halloween contacts. But, if you don’t, you’re putting yourself at risk of serious eye health problems.

For more contact lenses advice or to request an appointment, reach out to Asterix Eyewear toll-free at 866.771.6654 or complete our online form.