Contact lenses offer a practical and aesthetic alternative to glasses. However, to get the most out of your contacts, you must choose the ones that best suit your needs and eye health. Here's a quick guide to help you make the right choice.
Consult an Optometrist
Before buying contact lenses, make an appointment with an Optometrist. A thorough examination of your vision and eye health will help determine whether you're a good candidate for contact lenses and will determine the contacts that will suit you.
Understand your visual needs
There are different types of contact lenses to meet specific needs:
• Myopia or hyperopia: Standard corrective lenses correct these common problems.
• Astigmatism: Toric lenses are designed for people with astigmatism.
• Presbyopia: Multifocal or bifocal lenses enable you to see clearly at several distances.
Choose the right material
Contact lenses can be made from a variety of materials, each with its own advantages:
• Hydrogel: Comfortable and moisturizing, suitable for short-term wear.
• Silicone-hydrogel: more permeable to oxygen, they are comfortable to wear for more extended periods.
• Rigid gas permeable (RPG): Ideal for certain conditions, such as keratoconus, they offer very clear vision but require a period of adaptation.
• Consider your lifestyle.
Your lifestyle influences the type of contact lenses that will suit you best:
• 1-day contacts: Ideal for those looking for convenience. They are disposable after each use, eliminating the need for maintenance.
• Monthly contacts: These are more economical but require regular maintenance to remain hygienic.
• Extended-wear contacts: Designed to be worn day and night, they are suitable for specific use under professional supervision.
Plan regular follow-ups with your trusted Optometrist
Once you've chosen your contact lenses, it's crucial to see your Optometrist regularly to check their fit, assess your eye health and adjust your prescription, if necessary.
Adopt good care practices
To ensure the long life of your contacts and the health of your eyes:
• Wash your hands before handling your lenses.
• Clean and disinfect your contacts daily (except for daily contacts).
• Replace contact lenses and lens case as recommended.
The choice of contact lenses depends on many factors, including your visual needs, lifestyle and eye health. With the help of an Optometrist, you'll be able to find lenses that improve your vision while ensuring your visual comfort and eye health. Don't hesitate to ask questions and try different options to determine what's right for you.
