I've been tossing around the idea of tinting my headlights for some time now, but I'm having a hard time finding the best way to do it myself.

I'm pretty handy at paint/body type work, and have done niteshades on a number of vehicles tails, but have never tried doing headlights before.
First of all from my experience nightshades is out of the question. It goes on too dark and is way too cloudy for headlight application. I'm looking to achieve a nice clear lens, while still being smoked out pretty dark, if that makes any sense at all. I really don't want to effect light output or color very much either.

I've looked at film overlays but am concerned with durability and fading. If anyone has more personal experience than I'm sure I could be convinced otherwise.

I think I have heard of tinting clear coat, but since I don't have tools to mix and spray my own paint I would have to resort to taking it to a shop. However I'm pretty determined on obtaining a quality, tasteful look both in day and night time, so if that's what it takes eventually I'll do it.

I'm looking for someone with more experience with paint than myself to give me some pointers. Thanks for your help.