1. An optical element having adjustable focal length and an optical axis, comprising: a first transparent layer having a perpendicular orientation relative the optical axis and being situated upon a transparent soft polymer having a predetermined refractive index; and a second transparent layer positioned on an opposite side of said soft polymer, wherein said first transparent layer is made from a hard material having a predetermined flexibility comprising a thin glass layer, and the flexible first transparent layer is provided with an actuator for applying a force upon said first transparent layer at a distance from said optical axis, said force being essentially symmetric relative to said optical axis thus bending the first transparent layer to form a lens surface and a curved refractive surface, the focal length of the optical element thus being dependent on a curvature of the curved refractive surface, and wherein the soft polymer includes at least one surface contact with a compressible gas, said at least one surface being outside the optical axis.