Up until now, we've had clear lenses that darken and sunglasses that are polarized, but never before has the industry had everyday lenses that both darken and polarize upon UV exposure. That changed this past Jan (2012). Transitions Optical introduced the latest first in adaptive lens technology – variable polarization – at Transitions Academy.

I'm often asked at meetings and in my classes when a clear and polarized lens will be available? However, here is a lens that is virtually clear but when activated becomes increasingly polarized. This technology changes the presumption that polarized lenses are sunwear and can't become an everyday lens.

As you know, to increase the polarization efficiency in a polarized lens, darker lenses i.e., increased amounts of polarizing crystals and their dyes have been required. Here variable polarization provides the first polarized lens product that can be worn everyday as an alternative to ordinary, clear lenses. The difference is that new Transitions Vantage lenses are the first everyday lenses to both darken and polarize upon UV exposure – delivering noticeably crisper, sharper vision, even in the brightest outdoor glare.

How Variable Polarization Works

Key Benefits of Transitions Vantage lenses
Variable polarization provides added glare protection over and above traditional photochromic lenses. Add AR to Transitions Vantage and these lenses will be able to manage all four types of glare – distracting glare, discomforting glare, disabling glare and blinding glare.

There isn't another everyday lens that does this.

In addition to blocking excessive light, polarization optimizes the angle at which light reaches the eyes to help control glare and light scatter (environmental haze). This is what helps to deliver noticeably crisper, sharper vision, even in the brightest outdoor glare.

When Should You Recommend Transitions Vantage?
Transitions Optical has conducted wearer tests, which has shown that the added benefits of polarization made a difference to the wearer experience:

• 8 out of 10 photochromic patients were satisfied with the outdoor experience of new Transitions Vantage lenses.
• 9 out of 10 photochromic patients were satisfied with the indoor clarity of new Transitions Vantage lenses.
• Outdoors, on all of the key polarization benefits – visual contrast, crispness of vision and sharpness of vision – Transitions Vantage lenses are preferred over Transitions VI lenses.

Availability and Where to Learn More
Transitions Vantage lenses are now available, so check with your lab or lens manufacturer for specific availability details. Consider how this new product can add to your existing lens offerings. They could be your first choice for clear lenses. They won't replace the polarized sunlenses or the Transitions XTRActive your patients love for driving. To learn more, visit www.TransitionsVantage.com.

• On the site, eyecare professionals can find FAQs, view videos, take a quiz to earn a free premium demo kit, or register to attend educational events near them.