Top 10 Contact Lenses for Beginners
UpdatedNovember 13, 2024
Contact lenses are a popular choice for vision correction, especially among adolescents. In the US, 3 million people aged 12-17 use them. However, for beginners, choosing the right contact lens can be challenging. With so many options, it's easy to feel overwhelmed.
Imagine the discomfort of a poorly fitted lens or the frustration of dealing with lenses that dry out too quickly. There's also the risk of eye irritation or health issues due to unsuitable lens choices. These concerns can make the initial experience of wearing contact lenses daunting for many beginners.
In this article, you will learn about contact lenses and their types and discover the top 10 contact lenses for beginners. You will also learn how to take care of your contact lenses if you are a beginner.
Understanding Contact Lenses
Contact lenses are thin, round lenses that rest on the surface of your eyes to help improve your vision. These lenses are used to correct refractive errors, which are changes to the shape of the eye that prevent light from landing properly on the retina, resulting in blurry vision.
Contact lenses are designed to help people with various types of refractive errors, including:
- Nearsightedness (myopia)
- Farsightedness (hyperopia)
- Age-related farsightedness (presbyopia)
- Astigmatism
💡Did You Know?
It is estimated that approximately 45 million individuals in the US make use of contact lenses. Notably, two-thirds of contact lens users are female.
Types of Contact Lenses
If you are wearing contacts for the first time, it is important to know that several types of contact lenses are available in the market. These include:
1. Soft Contact Lenses
Source: optography.org
Soft contact lenses are made from flexible plastics, letting oxygen flow to the cornea—the transparent dome that covers the colored part of your eye. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of soft contact lenses:
Advantages
- Soft contact lenses offer wearers excellent vision and comfort, making them ideal for extended use.
- They are available in various types, including disposable options, offering convenience for users.
- Soft lenses are typically easier for beginners to adapt to due to their comfort and ease of handling.
Disadvantages
- Soft contact lenses may have a shorter lifespan than rigid ones, as they are often disposable and need regular replacement.
- They are more prone to tearing or damage compared to rigid lenses.
- Soft lenses may not correct certain vision problems as effectively as rigid lenses for some individuals.
🎉Fun Fact
The introduction of soft contact lenses in the early 1970s significantly impacted the global contact lens market. Since then, the worldwide prescription of soft contact lenses has consistently risen. It's mainly the sale of soft contact lenses that contributes to an industry estimated to be worth around US$8 billion annually. A survey showed that soft lenses comprise about 87% of all contact lens refills worldwide.
2. Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses
Source: Myvision.org
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lenses are contact lenses made of silicon, PMMA (polymethyl methacrylate), and fluoropolymer. These lenses are designed to correct various vision impairments, including farsightedness, nearsightedness, astigmatism, and conditions like keratoconus and corneal ectasia.
RGP lenses offer clearer vision and are resistant to deposit buildup, which makes them cost-effective over time. However, they may initially be less comfortable and require a few weeks of adaptation compared to soft contact lenses. This makes them suitable for beginners seeking long-term benefits. Rigid Gas-Permeable (RGP) contact lenses have several advantages and disadvantages, including:
Advantages
- They provide excellent vision.
- The adaptation period to these lenses is short.
- They are comfortable to wear.
- It can correct most vision problems.
- Easy to put on and care for.
- They have a relatively long life.
- Available in tints and bifocals.
Disadvantages
- Consistent wear is required to maintain adaptation.
- They can slip off the center of the eye more easily than other types.
- Debris can get under the lenses.
- Regular office visits are needed for follow-up care.
💡Did You Know?
RGP contact lenses, also known as hard contact lenses, first emerged in the late 1970s. Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, they represented an advancement over earlier 'hard' lenses, which limited oxygen flow to the eye.
3. Extended Wear Contact Lenses
Source: veronavisioncare.com
Extended-wear lenses are a type of contact lens designed for overnight or continuous use, allowing wearers to keep them in for a certain duration, ranging from one to six nights or up to 30 days, without requiring daily removal and reinsertion. Here are the advantages and disadvantages of extended-wear contact lenses:
Advantages
- They can be worn continuously, including overnight.
- Some are approved for up to 30 days of continuous wear.
- They eliminate the daily routine of lens removal and cleaning.
Disadvantages
- They don't correct all vision problems.
- Require regular follow-up care.
- Carry a higher risk of eye complications.
💡Did You Know?
Back in 1981, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a novel variety of soft contact lenses suitable for extended wear, even overnight use. This development marked a significant advancement in the field of ophthalmology and expanded the options available for those who require corrective lenses. The approval of these lenses represents a milestone in the development of contact lens technology and has enabled many individuals to enjoy greater convenience and comfort in their daily lives.
4. Disposable (Replacement Schedule) Contact Lenses
Source: linkedin.com
Disposable (Replacement Schedule) Contact Lenses are soft contact lenses typically prescribed with a specific replacement schedule, such as daily, weekly, or monthly. They are meant to be used for the designated period and then discarded, making them convenient for wearers as they don't require extended maintenance; however, proper cleaning and disinfection are essential for eye health. Below are the advantages and disadvantages of disposable contact lenses:
Advantages
- Simplified cleaning and disinfection process.
- Promotes good eye health due to regular lens replacement.
- Available in most prescription types.
Disadvantages
- Vision may not be as sharp as with Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses.
- They don't correct all vision problems.
- Handling can be more difficult compared to other types.
💡Did You Know?
Contact lenses have an interesting past that goes back more than 500 years. The earliest reference to contact lenses dates back to 1508, but it wasn't until 1887 that the first successful fitting of a contact lens was recorded. Disposable contact lenses didn't become available until 1972.
Top 10 Contact Lenses for Beginners
For those new to contact lenses, selecting the right brand and type can be daunting. That's why we've compiled a list of the best contact lens brands for beginners. These recommendations have been thoughtfully selected for user-friendliness, comfort, affordability, and eye health safety.
Everyone's eye care needs are unique, so we've included options for daily disposables, extended wear, and lenses for specific eye conditions. With this list, you can be confident that you're selecting a high-quality and reliable option for your vision correction needs.
Disclaimer:
The information and prices mentioned in this article are accurate as of the time of writing. These details may change over time due to market changes, product updates and availability, and other external influences. We recommend verifying any crucial information with relevant sources as fluctuations are possible.
The ACUVUE OASYS 1-Day contact lenses, priced at $107.99 per box with 90 lenses per box, are an ideal choice for beginners due to their exceptional comfort and convenience. These daily disposable lenses feature HydraLuxe™ Technology, providing tear-like properties that work harmoniously with your natural tear film for all-day comfort, excellent vision, and easy handling.
ACUVUE OASYS 1-Day contact lenses are designed for single use, eliminating the need for cleaning and maintenance. Available in various supply options including a 12-month supply of 4 boxes per eye, they ensure hassle-free use and consistent vision correction.
Pros
- ACUVUE OASYS 1-Day lenses offer outstanding comfort throughout the day, making them ideal for beginners new to wearing contact lenses.
- These lenses are convenient for daily use as they don't require cleaning or storage, simplifying the lens-wearing routine.
- With tear-like properties, these lenses promote eye health and reduce discomfort, ensuring a pleasant wearing experience.
Cons
- The price of ACUVUE OASYS 1-Day lenses is relatively higher than other contact lens options.
- Daily disposable lenses contribute to more waste than reusable lenses, which may raise environmental concerns.
- These lenses may not be suitable for individuals with highly specialized prescriptions, as they are primarily designed for standard vision correction.
Proclear Multifocal D XR contact lenses are an excellent option for beginners seeking enhanced vision correction, particularly those with higher levels of astigmatism. Priced at $182.99 per box for a 12-month supply, these lenses offer extended ranges of powers (XR) and incorporate Balanced Progressive technology for improved vision quality. Designed to cater to both dominant and non-dominant eyes, these lenses ensure comfort throughout the day with CooperVision's PC Technology keeping them moist.
Pros
- Proclear Multifocal D XR lenses cater to individuals with higher astigmatism levels, ensuring improved vision correction.
- With XR technology, these lenses accommodate a wider range of prescription needs, making them versatile for different users.
- CooperVision's PC Technology keeps the lenses moist throughout the day, promoting comfort and prolonged wear.
Cons
- At $182.99 per box, the Proclear Multifocal D XR lenses may be relatively more expensive than other contact lens options.
- While these lenses cater to astigmatism and multifocal requirements, individuals with simpler vision needs may find them unnecessarily advanced.
SofLens Daily Disposable contact lenses are priced at $57.99 per box, containing 90 lenses each, making them an affordable option for beginners. These lenses offer exceptional comfort and clarity throughout the day, eliminating the need for daily cleaning and care. Ideal for newcomers to contact lens wear, they provide a hassle-free experience with fresh lenses every day, ensuring crisp vision without discomfort.
Pros
- SofLens Daily Disposable lenses require no cleaning or care, making them hassle-free for beginners.
- These lenses provide sharp and clear vision, including in low-light conditions.
- Each lens is designed for single-day use, promoting eye health and minimizing the risk of contamination.
Cons
- Daily disposables can be more expensive over time than monthly or bi-weekly options.
- Daily disposal generates more waste than reusable lenses, contributing to environmental concerns.
- SofLens Daily Disposable lenses may have limited options for specialized prescriptions or lens features.
The Biofinity Toric XR contact lenses, priced at $152.99 per box with 6 lenses, offer exceptional stability, comfort, and visual acuity, making them an ideal choice for beginners. Their features include Optimized Toric Lens Geometry™, uniform horizontal ISO thickness, and a wide ballast band, ensuring quick orientation for better performance and ease of fitting.
With a 12-month supply of 2 boxes per eye or a 6-month supply of 1 box per eye, users can enjoy the convenience of bulk purchasing and hassle-free replacements.
Pros
- Cost-effective option, making them budget-friendly for beginners.
- Daily disposable format ensures hygiene and convenience.
- No need for lens cleaning solutions or cases, simplifying lens care.
Cons
- Daily disposal may contribute to environmental waste.
- Limited availability for specialized vision corrections.
- Some users may experience occasional dryness or discomfort.
The Air Optix Aqua Multifocal contact lenses, priced at $97.99 per box with 6 lenses each, offer beginners an ideal solution for clear vision at various distances. With their Unique Precision Profile® design, these lenses seamlessly blend prescription strengths for uninterrupted vision from near to far distances. Additionally, they come in a 12-month supply, accommodating two boxes per eye, ensuring long-lasting comfort and convenience for users.
Pros
- Air Optix Aqua Multifocal lenses provide clear vision at varying distances, reducing the need for multiple pairs of glasses.
- The Unique Precision Profile® design ensures comfort during extended wear, making them suitable for all-day use.
- Lensabl offers free shipping and a Torn Lens Replacement policy, adding value to your purchase.
Cons
- These lenses may be relatively expensive compared to some other contact lens options.
- Some users may require an adjustment period to adapt to multifocal lenses, especially if they are new to wearing them.
The ACUVUE® OASYS® contact lenses, available at $177.98 per box containing 24 lenses, are a great option for beginners thanks to their outstanding comfort and suitability for demanding conditions. These lenses are designed to maintain a stable tear film, offering comfort even in digital device-heavy situations or dry and dusty conditions, making them ideal for those new to contact lenses.
Pros
- ACUVUE OASYS® lenses provide exceptional comfort, making them perfect for all-day wear.
- Purchasing a 12-month supply can lead to significant cost savings, especially with the ongoing 15% off New Year Sale.
- These lenses are inspired by the natural tear film, ensuring stable moisture and comfort even in adverse conditions.
Cons
- While they offer quality, the cost may be relatively high for some individuals.
- ACUVUE OASYS® lenses are recommended for bi-weekly replacement, which might require more frequent purchasing and maintenance.
- Like all contact lenses, a valid prescription from an eye care professional is necessary for purchase, which may inconvenience some buyers.
The DAILIES AquaComfort Plus Toric contact lenses, priced at $32.99 per box with 30 lenses, is an ideal choice for beginners looking to correct astigmatism while enjoying consistent, clear vision throughout the day. These lenses feature blink-activated moisture technology, ensuring exceptional comfort and making them a suitable option for those new to contact lenses.
Pros
- The blink-activated moisture technology in these lenses ensures lasting comfort, making them perfect for all-day wear.
- DAILIES AquaComfort Plus Toric lenses are made to address astigmatism, ensuring clear and steady vision.
- With the availability of 3-month, 6-month, and 12-month supply options, users can choose the duration that best suits their needs.
Cons
- While these lenses offer great comfort and performance, they may be slightly more expensive than other contact lens options.
- The DAILIES AquaComfort Plus Toric lenses are designed specifically for astigmatism correction, so they may not be suitable for individuals with other vision needs.
- These lenses are disposable and need to be replaced regularly, which can be less eco-friendly compared to reusable contact lenses.
The PRECISION1® Toric contact lenses, priced at $102.99 per box for a 90-lens supply, offer an excellent choice for beginners seeking affordable and comfortable daily contact lenses. These lenses incorporate SMART SURFACE Technology, ensuring lasting visual performance and comfort, making them ideal for those new to wearing contacts.
Pros
- The PRECISION1® Toric lenses are competitively priced, providing cost-effective options for individuals on a budget.
- These lenses boast SMART SURFACE Technology, ensuring excellent visual performance and daily comfort.
- With their user-friendly design and daily disposable format, these lenses are perfect for those new to contact lens wear, simplifying maintenance.
Cons
- The PRECISION1® Toric lenses may not cater to individuals with more specific prescription needs, as they are primarily designed for astigmatism correction.
- While daily disposables are convenient for hygiene, they can generate more waste compared to reusable lenses.
- Although cost-effective upfront, the cumulative expense of daily disposables might be higher for long-term contact lens users.
The MyDay® contact lenses, available at Lensabl, offer an ideal choice for beginners with their affordable pricing and many benefits. Priced at $83.99 per box for a 90-lens supply, MyDay® lenses are perfect for those seeking a comfortable and convenient daily disposable option.
CooperVision® designs these lenses and provides all-day comfort, easy insertion and removal, and excellent breathability, ensuring a healthy lens-wearing experience.
Pros
- MyDay® lenses are reasonably priced at $83.99 per box, making them a cost-effective choice for daily disposable lenses.
- These lenses prioritize wearer comfort, allowing users to forget about them throughout the day.
- MyDay® lenses are highly breathable, promoting a healthier lens-wearing experience and reducing the risk of discomfort.
Cons
- MyDay® lenses are available in 90-lens boxes, which may not be suitable for users seeking shorter supply durations.
- This product appears to offer a single type of lens, limiting options for those with specific visual needs.
The Focus DAILIES contact lenses available on Lensabl are priced at $47.99 per box, with each box containing 30 lenses, making them an affordable choice for beginners. These daily disposable lenses offer convenience and comfort as they don't require cleaning or solutions. Focus DAILIES are designed to promote eye health by providing fresh, clean lenses daily, reducing the risk of deposits building up. They are ideal for those on the go, including travelers and campers, seeking hassle-free vision correction.
Pros
- Daily disposable design ensures a fresh pair of lenses daily, promoting eye hygiene.
- No need for lens cleaning or solutions, making them convenient for users with busy lifestyles.
- Focus DAILIES are well-suited for beginners due to their ease of use and maintenance-free nature.
Cons
- The cost may increase over time for those wearing contact lenses daily.
- Limited options for extended wear, as they are designed for daily replacement.
- Some individuals with specific vision needs may require custom lenses, which are not offered in this product.
👍Recommendation:
Contact lenses are a convenient alternative to glasses for those who want to improve their vision. However, wearing contact lenses can lead to dry eyes, which can cause discomfort and even eye infections. To help you alleviate this issue, we have compiled a list of the best eye drops for contacts available in the market. Whether searching for a quick fix or a long-term solution, we have got you covered.
How to Care for Your Contact Lenses
Failure to clean, disinfect, or store your contact lenses properly can lead to serious eye infections. It is crucial to follow your eye care provider's instructions precisely. Here are some contact lens tips for beginners on properly caring for your lenses.
- Wash Your Hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling your contact lenses. Avoid soaps with extra oils or fragrances.
- Handle with Care: Use your fingertips to handle the lenses, avoiding contact with your nails. Ensure your hands are dry to prevent particles from getting onto the lenses.
- Inspect Your Lenses: Check for any tears or damages before inserting your contacts. Ensure the lens is right-side out, resembling a bowl rather than a lid.
- Proper Insertion: Use a mirror to guide you. Hold your upper eyelid open, and your lower eyelid down, then gently place the lens on your eye. Blink a few times to ensure proper placement.
- Removing Your Lenses: Wash and dry your hands before removing your lenses. Look up and gently pull down your lower eyelid to slide the lens out. Repeat for the other eye.
- Cleaning and Storage: If your lenses are not daily disposables, clean them after removal using recommended solutions. Store them in a clean case filled with fresh contact solution. Replace the storage case every three months.
- Regular Check-ups: If you experience any unusual eye irritation or discomfort, remove your lenses and consult an eye care professional. Regular eye exams are crucial for maintaining eye health.
Wrap-Up
Choosing the right contact lenses for beginners is crucial for a comfortable and trouble-free experience. When picking the best contact lenses for beginners, "ACUVUE® OASYS® 1-Day" is a great option. Priced at $107.99 per box with 90 lenses, these lenses are ideal for those new to wearing contacts. They provide exceptional comfort throughout the day, making them perfect for beginners still adjusting to wearing contact lenses.
The daily disposable design eliminates the need for cleaning and maintenance, simplifying the lens-wearing routine and promoting hygiene. Additionally, the HydraLuxe™ Technology mimics natural tears, promoting eye health and reducing discomfort, ensuring a pleasant wearing experience.
Although there are other great options on the market, the ACUVUE OASYS 1-Day contact lenses stand out due to their comfort, convenience, and eye health safety, making them the recommended choice for beginners. However, beginners must consult an eye care professional to determine the best contact lenses based on their specific vision needs and preferences.
📰 Helpful Article
The human eyes are often exposed to harmful ultraviolet radiation (UVR) from natural and artificial sunlight sources. Protective eyewear, such as UV-blocking contact lenses, is recommended to prevent UV-induced eye damage. Buoy Health offers informative articles that cover various topics related to vision and help you make informed decisions. You can explore these articles to learn more about UV-blocking contact lenses and their benefits.
FAQs On Contact Lenses For Beginners
How do I know if contact lenses are right for me?
Before trying contact lenses, it's important to consult with an ophthalmologist or optometrist to determine if they are a good fit for your eyes and lifestyle.
What are some tips for wearing contacts for the first time?
It's important to follow the instructions provided by your ophthalmologist or optometrist when inserting and removing your contact lenses. It may take some practice to get used to the sensation of wearing contacts, but most people adjust within a few days or weeks.
What should I do if my contact lens feels uncomfortable or irritates my eyes?
If your contact lens feels uncomfortable or causes irritation, you should remove it immediately and consult your eye doctor. It's important not to continue wearing a contact lens that is causing discomfort or pain.
How often should I replace my contact lenses?
The frequency of replacing your contact lenses will vary based on the type of lenses you wear. Your eye doctor can provide specific recommendations based on your individual needs and the type of contact lenses you are using.
Are there any risks associated with wearing contact lenses?
Like any form of vision correction, some risks are associated with wearing contact lenses. However, these risks can be minimized by following proper hygiene and care instructions and regularly consulting your eye doctor.
How do I choose the best contact lenses for a beginner?
Before you choose a pair of lenses, it's important to consider your specific eye-related needs. If you have dry eyes or allergies, wearing lenses may be difficult. In such cases, daily disposable contacts are the best option. However, it's always advisable to consult a doctor before selecting.