Colorimetry uses precise colored filters and custom-tinted lenses to reduce visual stress, a neurological condition that causes text distortion and reading discomfort.
What is Visual Stress?
Definition: A condition (also called pattern glare or Meares–Irlen syndrome) where the brain struggles to process high-contrast, repetitive patterns like black text on a white page. It stems from hyper-excitability in the visual cortex. Prevalence: Affects roughly 20% of the general population and up to 40% of poor readers. It is distinct from dyslexia, though the two can co-occur. Common Symptoms: Words appearing to move, blur, shimmer, or double; eye strain, headaches, sore eyes, and sensitivity to bright light.
How Colorimetry Works
Initial Screening (Coloured Overlays): An optometrist first rules out general eye problems and tests 12 standardized colored plastic overlays. If an overlay improves reading speed and comfort over a trial period, it indicates that precision tints will help. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
The Colorimeter Examination: Using a specialized device called an Intuitive Colorimeter, the practitioner tests over 100,000 combinations of hue, saturation, and brightness during a 20-minute test to find your exact optimal color. [1, 2, 3]
Precision-Tinted Lenses: The exact color specification is made into custom prescription or non-prescription spectacle lenses. These calm cortical over-activation in the brain, allowing for comfortable reading and screen use over extended periods. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
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