What Are The Benefits of Using Tinted Glasses to Manage Photophobia?

Managing Photophobia: A Guide to Light Sensitivity

Photophobia is often dramatically interpreted as a fear of light, but it is more accurately a sensitivity to light. While we need light to see, the goal is to curb the light that is bothersome without blocking all of it. One way you can mitigate photophobia is by closing your eyes, but that’s not a very functional solution if you need to read or do other tasks.

The first step in managing photophobia is to identify the source of the bothersome light, or glare. Glare often comes from the things around you rather than the object you are trying to see.

A Layered Approach to Glare Control

Before even considering an optical device, start with simple, non-prescription solutions.

1. Block Overhead Light: The simplest solution for glare is a hat with a brim. A brim can significantly limit the overhead light that is coming at you, which can greatly reduce photophobia.
   
2. Block Light from the Sides: Light from the sides can also be bothersome. Frames that have side shields, or side shields that you can attach to your current glasses, can be very effective at mitigating this issue.
   
3. Consider Tints: Once you have addressed light from the top and sides, you can turn to tinted lenses for what is directly in front of you. It’s tempting to think that the darkest tint is the best solution, but this can be counterproductive. Your brain adapts to light conditions, and if you wear a very dark tint indoors, the transition to being outside can be just as jarring as if you weren’t wearing any glasses at all.

Finding the Right Tint for You

The best strategy for choosing a tint is to find the minimum amount of light blockage that allows you to function comfortably. Start with the lightest possible color that helps your eyes and only go darker if you have to. While some people appreciate the contrast enhancement offered by a brown or amber lens, many prefer a gray tint because it doesn’t modify color perception.

Finally, remember to only wear tinted glasses when you need them. If you wear them when you don’t have to, your eyes will begin to adapt to the darker conditions, making the tints less effective when you actually require them.

Charlie Saccarelli

President, Chadwick Optical

As President of Chadwick Optical, Charlie Saccarelli is the driving force behind the company’s mission to help every patient left behind by the current health care system. Under his leadership, Chadwick has grown from a simple optical lab into a trusted resource for practitioners around the world looking for ways to help the patients that “can’t be helped.” He is a master optician, a father, a bit of a nerd, and a passionate patient advocate who has lectured worldwide on all things optical.