Have you been considering switching from glasses to contact lenses, but aren’t sure where to start? With so many types of contact lenses available, understanding the basics, benefits, and options can help you make the best decision for your vision needs. It’s important you learn as much as you can about contact lenses so you can find the type and brand that’s right for you.
What Are Contact Lenses?
Contact lenses are thin, curved lenses placed directly on the eye’s surface to correct vision. They provide a wide field of view and are an excellent alternative to glasses. Contact lenses can correct a variety of refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia (age-related difficulty focusing on close objects).
Types of Contact Lenses
There are various types of contact lenses to choose from, depending on your needs.
1. Soft Contact Lenses
Soft contact lenses are made from flexible plastics that allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea. They are comfortable to wear and available for daily, weekly, or monthly use.
- Daily Disposable Contacts: These lenses are meant to be worn for one day and then discarded. They’re ideal for people who want low-maintenance lenses without the need for cleaning or storing.
- Extended Wear Lenses: These can be worn continuously for up to 30 days. While convenient, they do carry a higher risk of infection if not properly cared for.
2. Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses
RGP lenses are more durable than soft lenses and provide clearer vision for people with astigmatism or irregular corneas. They allow oxygen to reach the eye and typically last longer than soft lenses.
3. Toric Lenses
Toric lenses are designed to correct astigmatism. They are available in both soft and rigid materials and offer varying prescriptions in different parts of the lens to correct the curvature of the eye.
4. Multifocal/Bifocal Lenses
For those with presbyopia, multifocal or bifocal contact lenses provide multiple prescriptions in one lens to aid both near and far vision. These lenses come in soft or RGP forms.
5. Colored Contact Lenses
Colored lenses can be worn for cosmetic purposes to change or enhance your eye color. Some colored lenses also correct vision, while others are solely for cosmetic purposes.
Key Benefits of Contact Lenses
Switching to contact lenses comes with several benefits.
- Natural Vision: Contacts sit directly on your eyes, offering a more natural field of vision without the distortions caused by glasses frames.
- Convenience: Unlike glasses, contacts won’t fog up in cold weather, fall off during sports, or clash with your personal style.
- Variety: With different types, including daily disposables and specialty lenses, there’s a contact lens option for nearly everyone.
- Comfort: Modern materials like silicone hydrogel ensure that most users find contacts comfortable to wear for long periods.
Are Contact Lenses Right for You?
While many people can wear contact lenses, not everyone is an ideal candidate. Certain eye conditions such as dry eye syndrome or frequent infections may make wearing contacts uncomfortable or impractical. It’s important to schedule a consultation with your optometrist to determine if contact lenses are suitable for you.
How to Take Care of Contact Lenses
Proper care of contact lenses is crucial to maintain eye health and avoid complications.
- Wash your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses.
- Clean and disinfect reusable lenses with an appropriate solution every day.
- Never wear contacts longer than recommended, and replace them on schedule.
- Avoid water: Never rinse or store your lenses in water as it can introduce harmful bacteria.
- Take breaks from wearing contacts to give your eyes a rest, especially if you wear them for extended periods.
Where to Buy Contact Lenses Online
Purchasing contact lenses online is convenient, often offering lower prices and quick delivery. There are several reputable providers online.
1. 1-800 Contacts
One of the most popular online contact lens retailers, 1-800 Contacts offers a wide selection of brands and types, competitive prices, and free shipping. They also have a price-match guarantee, ensuring you get the best deal.
2. Lens.com
Lens.com is known for offering significant discounts on major contact lens brands. They provide both vision-correcting lenses and colored lenses, making it a versatile option.
3. Hubble Contacts
Hubble specializes in affordable, high-quality daily lenses that are delivered right to your door. Their subscription service ensures you never run out of lenses.
4. ContactsDirect
With a wide selection of brands and a user-friendly website, ContactsDirect is a great place to buy contacts online. They offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount and accept vision insurance.
5. Walgreens Contacts
Known for convenience, Walgreens Contacts provides a wide variety of lenses, often at discounted prices. They frequently offer promotions and allow customers to use vision insurance for their purchases.
Contact lenses can be life-changing for those who want freedom from glasses or need a more tailored solution for their vision problems. With so many types available, it’s essential to consult with your eye doctor to find the best option for your needs. Once you’ve found your perfect fit, purchasing from reputable online providers ensures you receive quality lenses with the convenience of home delivery.