Abstract: An electrochromic device (10) for windows, displays, rear view mirrors, eye wear and other applications includes three layers (2), (4) and (5) of electrochromic materials and an electrolyte, with the transmittance of the layers (2) and (5) being variable by an applied electrical field, and protective layer (4) being transparent and not contributing to the coloration/bleaching of device. The protective layer (4) is made of the same electrochromic material as the electrochromic layer on the opposing side of the electrolyte.