Soft Contact Lenses

Soft Contact Lenses

The most commonly prescribed type of contact lenses in the United States are soft lenses. These lenses are made of flexible plastic combined with water to allow oxygen to pass through the contact lens to the cornea. This makes them generally more comfortable to wear over other types of lenses. They provide increased comfort, stay in place better and are easier to adjust than hard contact lenses.

Soft Contacts for Eye Conditions

Whether you have myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism (blurred vision) or presbyopia (age-related loss of close-up vision), there is a soft contact lens that can help you see more clearly. There are three main options in soft contact lenses: daily, weekly and monthly disposable lenses. Disposable daily contact lenses are contact lenses that are worn for one day and then discarded. You open a new pack every morning, throwing away your contacts after removal at night. Disposable weekly contact lenses, also known as weeklies, are used for one or two weeks before being tossed and replaced with a new pair. Disposable monthly contacts have a wear period of one month or longer, given your frequency of use.

Disposable Soft Contacts

Disposable soft contact lenses require minimal cleaning and disinfection while in use--a simple contact solution and case is enough for most people using weekly and monthly disposables that remove them at night. Extended wear contact lenses are an option, which can be worn while sleeping, but even they must be removed and cleaned once a week. If you are prone to eye infections, extended wear lenses might not be the best for you, due to the build-up of bacteria and dirt during the long wear period.

You will probably experience some trial and error in finding the right contact lenses for your eyes. Everyone reacts differently to lens materials and cleaning solutions, so don't become discouraged if your first pair isn't a good fit. If your eyes or lenses become uncomfortable or you are not seeing well, consult with your eye doctor to explore other contact options.