This is a sponsored post by Essilor of America, a supporter of NewGradOptometry & new graduate optometrists!
I have many patients in my practice who can benefit from Transitions® lenses.
I often receive a lot of questions from current and potential wearers regarding the lens offerings and technology. It is important to stay up-to-date as technology continues to expand and improve.
Are you remembering to recommend Transitions® lenses to your patients? Are you aware of all the latest options and technology involved in Transitions® lenses?
In order to best meet the needs of your patients, you must determine their visual demands, occupation, hobbies, and interests.
Types of Transitions Lenses
1. Transitions® Signature® 7
- Fully clear indoors and darken outdoors
- Block 100% of UVA and UVB light
- Available in grey, brown, and graphite green
What type of patient would I recommend this for?
I routinely recommend these lenses for teenagers. The graphite green tend to be well-received for a unique and fashion-forward look. Stylistically, larger ophthalmic frames are in style so the addition of Transitions enhances the look!
2. Transitions® Vantage™
- Variable polarization
- Block 100% UVA and UVB light
- Available in grey with certain types of lenses
What type of patient would I recommend these for?
I would recommend these for more hobby driven activities like riding motorcycles or hunting.
3. Transitions® XTRActive®
- Extra dark outdoors with a hint of tint indoors to protect against harsh indoor lighting
- Darken behind windshield to protect from sunlight
What type of patient would I recommend these for?
Transitions® XTRActive® are my number one go-to for most patients.
I find that many patients want their glasses to darken while driving. This is a key prescribing point! The slight tint is also helpful with the bright light from computer monitors.
Children are 3x more susceptible to sun damage so it’s important they wear sun protection. Just like sunscreen is vital to the skin, children should have UV protection every time they are outside. Transitions are perfect for when children are out on the playground or participating in outdoor activities!
Transitions Lens Technology
Photochromic Technology
- Unique dyes made of molecules that constantly recalibrate as light changes
- Reactive to direct light and indirect light
- Darken more in cold climates
Variable Polarization
- Increased polarization as they darken
- Darken and align to create pattern of horizontal lines to cut intense glare
- Crisper, sharper vision outside
Blue Light Blocking
In the past few years, we have learned a lot about the dangers of harmful blue emitted from different indoor and outdoor sources such as digital devices and the sun.
Did you know ALL Transitions® lenses block harmful blue light?
- Transitions® Signature® 7 lenses block at least 20% of all indoor sources of blue light and over 85% of outdoor sources.
- Transitions® XTRActive® lenses provide even more protection; they block at least 34% of indoor sources of blue light and over 88% of outdoor sources.
- Transitions® Vantage™ lenses block at least 34% of all indoor sources of blue light and over 85% of outdoor sources.
All Transitions lenses help protect your eyes from harmful blue light both indoors and outdoors!
Common patient questions and how I address them
- Do Transitions lenses replace sunglasses?No, transitions lenses are not a substitute for sunglasses. They are substitute for clear lenses, and like clear lenses, are best with an anti-reflective treatment. Sunglasses are still necessary for extended time in the sun and various activities.
- How long does it take for the lenses to return to clear? The time for transformation is dependent on temperature and product. However, from the darkest tint to clear in normal indoor temperatures is about two and a half minutes.
- What color will they be?I usually show patients typical sunglass lenses to demonstrate the darkest tint. The demonstration kits are the best visual!
I find demonstration of the lens colors and activation in front of patients is key to presentation! Ask your lab rep if your office does not have a demonstration kit!
Tips for eyecare professionals
- Educate and offer Transitions lenses to your patients and explain the technology around them.
- Many vision plans offer Transitions lenses with a co-pay or may cover this entirely. Make sure your patients understand this.
- Do your research. My Transitions rate has tripled over the past year since I've gained a better understanding of the technology, and I have not had a single patient who has not liked them.
- Transitions lenses offers to remake the lenses within 30 days if patients are not completely happy per their website.
- Recommend not only a specific type of Transitions lens for each patient, but recommend a color option based on frame selection and style!
Visit Transitions Professional site for more information.
Don’t forget to educate your patients on the benefits of other various lens options and lens treatments like polarized lens technology.
