Understanding EnChroma Lenses: A Game-Changer for Colour-Blindness
Did you know that more than two million Canadians experience some form of colour-blindness? Until recently, there weren’t many solutions available to help people with this condition.
Thanks to advancements in optical technology, EnChroma lenses are now allowing people with colour-blindness to see the world in a way they never have before. If you or someone you know struggles with colour vision, here’s what you need to know about this exciting innovation.
What is Colour-Blindness?
To understand how EnChroma lenses work, it’s helpful to first understand what colour-blindness is.
Normally, the human retina contains cone photoreceptors that detect red, green, and blue light. These cones work together to allow the brain to perceive a full range of colours. However, people with colour-blindness either lack certain cone receptors or have cones that overlap too much, making it difficult to distinguish between specific colours.
The most common type of colour-blindness is red-green colour-blindness, where individuals have trouble differentiating certain shades of red and green. This can make everyday activities—such as selecting ripe fruit, reading traffic signals, or matching clothing—more challenging.
Beyond everyday inconveniences, colour-blindness can also impact career opportunities. Some professions, including piloting and electrical work, require accurate colour perception and may not be accessible to those with the condition.
What are EnChroma Lenses?
EnChroma lenses were originally developed as protective eyewear for surgeons performing laser procedures. Today, they have been adapted to help people with red-green colour-blindness perceive a broader and more vibrant range of colours.
These lenses look similar to regular sunglasses but are specially coated to manipulate the way light enters the eye. By filtering certain wavelengths of light, EnChroma lenses reduce the overlap of red and green signals, helping the brain differentiate colours more effectively.
For many users, wearing EnChroma glasses can be an emotional experience. Seeing vivid greens, bright reds, and rich purples for the first time can be life-changing. However, the degree of improvement varies from person to person based on the severity of their colour deficiency.
Will EnChroma Glasses Work for Everyone?
EnChroma lenses are designed specifically for individuals with red-green colour-blindness, which is the most common form. Unfortunately, they are not effective for those with rarer forms, such as blue-yellow colour-blindness or monochromatic vision, where a person sees only shades of grey.
Additionally, while these glasses can enhance colour perception, they do not “cure” colour-blindness. The effects are strongest when used in bright, natural lighting, and some people may need time to adjust before they notice a significant difference.
How Can You Get EnChroma Lenses?
If you’re curious about whether EnChroma lenses could work for you, the best first step is to speak with an optometrist. At Optometrists’ Clinic, we can assess your level of colour vision deficiency and determine whether these lenses may be beneficial for you.
With five locations in and around Edmonton, we’re always available to help answer your questions and find the best vision solutions for your needs. Contact the Optometrists’ Clinic location nearest you to book an appointment and explore your options for colour-enhancing eyewear.
