Colour blindness is an abnormality of colour perception that affects around 8% of men and 0.5% of women worldwide. Although this condition cannot be completely corrected, certain glasses specially designed for colour-blind people can help to better distinguish certain colours.
Understanding how colour-blind glasses work
Colour-blind glasses are equipped with filter lenses that modify the way light reaches the eye. These filters help improve the contrast between certain colours, making hues more distinct for people with colour blindness.
There are several types of colour blindness, the most common being:
• Red-green colour blindness, which includes deuteranopia (insensitivity to green) and protanopia (insensitivity to red).
• Blue-yellow colour blindness, which is rarer and involves difficulty differentiating blue from yellow.
Colour-blind glasses are generally designed to correct red-green colour blindness, as this is the most common form.
Criteria to consider when choosing glasses
1. The type of colour blindness
Before buying a pair of glasses, it's essential to determine the type of colour blindness you suffer from. There are online tests or in-clinic examinations that can accurately identify your condition.
2. Intended use
• Everyday use: Some glasses are designed to be worn at all times, both indoors and outdoors.
• Outdoor use: Some eyewear works best in direct sunlight, where natural light enhances its effectiveness.
• Specific work: If you work in a field where color perception is essential (graphics, design, electricity), there are more precise models adapted to these needs.
3. Lens type
• Tinted lenses: Often used outdoors, they help improve colour contrast in bright light.
• Clear lenses: Ideal for indoor use, these lenses enhance colour perception without altering the clarity of vision.
4. Visual adaptation
It often takes a while to get used to colour-blind glasses. Some
people see the difference immediately, while others need several days to perceive a real change.
Colour-blind glasses don't cure colour blindness, but they can considerably improve everyday colour perception. By taking into account your type of colour blindness, intended use, lens type and budget, you'll be able to find the pair that's right for you. Don't hesitate to consult an optometrist for personalized advice!
