If you’re considering investing in progressive lenses and want to make a smart choice about which ones are right for you, you’ve come to the right place! Here we’ll overview what you need to know about these high-tech lenses, from the different types to how you can benefit from (and adjust to) wearing them, as well as their estimated price tags. There are actually quite a few lens options to learn about--including clear, sunglass, basic photochromic, digital screen protection, tinted glasses, and Transitions Adaptive--so let’s get started!

Who benefits from progressive?

Progressive lenses are available to anyone with vision corrective needs at all distance ranges (near, mid, and far), with custom prescription strengths. That being said, they’re most popular with people who experience presbyopia--a condition that naturally onsets around 40+ years of age, where it becomes difficult to focus clearly on objects in close proximity.

Photochromic and Transitions Adaptive lenses

These types of progressive lenses are responsive to UV-light, acquiring a tint that becomes darker in proportion to more intense direct UV radiation. In absence of direct UV rays (as indoors or at night time), the tint dissipates and the lenses become clear. Effectively, you get a “smart” 2-in-1 progressive lens that acts as an adaptive sunglass whenever needed, without having to ever change to a different pair of glasses!

While your selection can depend on your lens retailer, UV-responsive lens options can include basic photochromic and Essilor progressive Transitions Adaptive lenses. In addition, you can select the hue of the tint--dark amber or grey tones. They’re a great option for people spending lots of time outside, or going from indoors-to-out, and would enjoy having a sunglass tint that adjusts with the amount of light.