Photochromatic Lenses

Photochromatic Lenses are light reactive lenses. Sometimes also know as "photochromic"or "transitions" or "reactions" lenses.

These lenses adapt to varying light levels- the greater the light levels, the darker the lens & vice versa

Replacement photochromatic lenses in your own frames is a great way to save money. Most opticians will encourage you to buy a new frame but if you are happy with your frame & just want new photochromatic lenses we can reglaze your frames for you, quickly.

Reglaze your glasses with photochromatic lenses. (Our lenses work behind the windscreen of a car)

Available in Silver / Grey ,Bronze / Brown, Emerald Green and Ocean Blue from HOYA

Coming soon: Sensity colours         

                                                                         

OR

email: enquiries@glassesoutlet.co.uk or

request a callback on whats app 0131 235 2944

    FAQs

    What are photochromatic lenses?

    Photochromatic (or photochromic) lenses automatically darken when exposed to UV light outdoors and fade back to clear indoors. This lens type adapts to changing light conditions, combining clear and sunglass visuals in a single pair  .

    Can I reglaze my glasses with photochromatic lenses at Glasses Outlet?

    Absolutely. Glasses Outlet offers a full reglazing service—swap your existing frames for new photochromatic prescription lenses, saving money, avoiding waste, and enhancing sustainability .

    What photochromatic options does Glasses Outlet provide?

    • Single vision photochromatic lenses
    • Varifocal photochromatic lenses
    • Tint options: Grey, Brown, Emerald, Blue
    • Lens indexes: standard, 1.6, 1.67 for slimmer profile
    • Coatings: scratch-resistant, anti-reflective, anti-smudge  

    What are the price ranges for reglazing with photochromatic lenses?

    • Standard single vision starts at £99
    • With anti-reflection/anti-smudge coatings: £119
    • High-index 1.6: £139
    • High-index 1.67: £169  

     How does the reglazing process work?

    1. Select your preferred lens type and coatings online.
    2. Use the free posting service to send your frames.
    3. Glasses Outlet technicians fit your new lenses.
    4. Receive your upgraded glasses back, usually within a week  .

    What are the main benefits of photochromatic lenses

    • Seamless adaptation across environments—no need to switch frames.
    • 100% UV protection indoors and out.
    • Eliminate carrying separate sunglasses and reading glasses  .
    • Reduced eye strain from sudden glare changes.

    What makes Hoya Sensity Fast special?

    Hoya Sensity Fast is one of the market’s most advanced photochromic lenses:

    • Up to 45% faster fade-back indoors versus leading competitors.
    • Reaches half-clear in under 50 seconds at ~23 °C in tests  .
    • Immediate clarity indoors — ideal for active, fast-paced lifestyles  .
    • Available in two stylish tints: Bronze Brown and Silver Grey  .

    Which Sensity variant suits me best?

     

    Sensity Type

    Best For

    Highlights

    Sensity

    Everyday use, all climates

    Quick darkening, clear indoors

    Sensity Fast

    Active lifestyles, frequent indoor/outdoor transitions

    45% faster fade-back 

    Sensity Dark

    Outdoor enthusiasts, driving

    Extra dark even behind windscreen

    Sensity Shine

    Fashion-forward users



    What are the limitations of photochromatic lenses?

    • Fade-back speed reduces slightly in hot weather—may remain tinted longer.
    • Not ideal for nighttime driving unless paired with anti-glare coatings.
    • Slight delay when moving into shaded outdoor areas before darkening.