Disposable Contact Lenses Offer convenience and benefits for eye health

Disposable contact lenses were introduced in 1987 and are now the most common type of contact lenses. These lenses are worn for a short period of time and then discarded, lessening the chances for eye infection due to deposit buildup on the lens. Are disposable contact lenses right for you? Read on to learn more.

What are disposable contact lenses?

Traditional, or reusable, contact lenses are usually replaced every six months or longer. When traditional lenses are removed before sleep, they are cleaned and disinfected. Disposable contact lenses are replaced every two weeks or sooner. The lenses can be prescribed either for daily wear or extended wear, depending on your needs.

What are the benefits of disposable contact lenses?

The more frequently you replace your contact lenses, the healthier your eyes will be. Protein, calcium and lipids all form naturally in the eye and can thus build up on lenses. These deposits can cause discomfort and make your eyes more prone to infection. For this reason, all contact lenses, even disposable lenses that are not discarded nightly, must be cleaned and disinfected properly.

What about daily disposable contact lenses?

For those who really hate the cleaning regimen, daily disposables, also called one-day disposables, may be the best bet. Daily disposable contact lenses are discarded after wear each night and replaced with a new, fresh pair in the morning. Daily disposable lenses offer convenience because cleaning is not necessary. Plus they're healthier for your eyes, because there's no deposit buildup on the lenses.

Are disposable contact lenses affordable?

Many disposable contact lenses are made of the same materials as traditional lenses, while others are made from new materials. Disposables are not necessarily more expensive than traditional lenses. While they may be slightly more expensive than traditional ones, disposable wearers save money on the reduced purchase of contact cleaning products.

Can I wear disposable contact lenses?

Yes, you probably can, if your prescription is available in a disposable lens. There is a large selection of disposable contact lenses, including colored lenses and lenses to correct for astigmatism. Bifocal disposable contact lenses also are available. Have a closer look at the menu on this page and find out if they are right for you.

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