Buying the Best Lens for Eyes: Are you thinking of switching from glasses to contact lenses for the first time? We understand it can be a confusing experience, especially with the overabundance of options available today. There may be several questions running on your mind. Are they difficult to look after? Is it painful to wear contact lenses? It is understandable that you may have some reservations before making the change.
After all, getting contacts is a serious business, and the USFDA [1] considers them a medical device. But, the simple answer to such questions is that if you follow the proper instructions and put in the effort to find the best lens for eyes, it should be an uncomplicated and seamless experience.
That is why we have compiled a list of things one must know before buying contact lenses. This list is made to simplify your shopping experience and ensure that you buy the best lens for eyes. So, let’s look at these six things you should know:
1. Eye Examination is Crucial
You will need a prescription before you can start wearing contact lenses. [2] You may already have one for your glasses, but the prescription for eyeglasses and contact lenses are not the same. This is because contact lenses rest directly on your eyes, so you need to know additional measures for the best fit. Remember to have the prescription on hand when you buy the lens.
2. Check the Prescription and Order
You can either order your lenses online or visit the shop once you have received your prescription. However, if you are a first-time user, you should always consult with an eye care professional for the best contact lenses as per your eye’s clinical status. Like regular spectacle lenses, contact lenses may have different powers for each eye. Additionally, if you have astigmatism or presbyopia, your optometrist may prescribe toric lenses or multifocal contact lenses accordingly. [3]
3. Look for Lenses According to Your Wearing Routine
Finding the best lens for eyes depends mostly on individual requirements. For example, there are multiple types of lenses available that can be used for varying durations. It is up to you to decide which works the best for you, considering how frequently you intend to wear them. Here are some which you may find:
- Daily Disposable
As you wear a new pair of lenses every day, you get the most convenience and the highest level of hygiene with this option. So while they can be relatively more expensive, if you just want to wear lenses infrequently, these are the better option as no lens care solution is required in the case of Daily disposable contact lenses
- Monthly Disposable
There are contact lenses that can be used for a month if they are cleaned and stored in contact lens solution every night. They can be a value-for-money option for people who wear them quite frequently.
- 2-Week Lenses
A middle ground between monthly and daily disposable lenses, these can be an ideal choice for people who want to wear lenses for a specific period.
4. Find Trusted Brands
When you are looking for the best lens for eyes online, you may come across several brands, but not all of them are a good choice. Therefore, it is in your best interest to go for a renowned brand that can offer you suitable products without compromising on quality or comfort.
Bausch+Lomb is one such brand that is well-known in the country for offering some of the best lens for eyes. They have an extensive range of options for you to choose from, depending on your specific visual needs.
5. Maintain Contact Lens Health
It is crucial to pay attention to your routines and lens care supplies to maintain good health. You may enjoy the convenience and benefits of contact lenses while reducing your risk of eye infection when you follow your eye care provider’s advice on how to use, clean and store your lenses correctly. [4]
Be sure to get appropriate lens care supplies such as the solution used to clean them, the lens case, etc. Depending on the type of lens you have, the solution may be different, so ensure you have the right one by consulting your optometrist.
6. Coloured Lenses Need Prescription As Well
If you are considering coloured contact lenses, you should be aware that they require a prescription as well. You may be only using them for cosmetic purposes, however, they are still medical devices that need to be prescribed by a professional.