Contact Lenses Vs. Eyeglasses: Which Option Is Right For You?

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Modern technology allows humans to aid poor vision with several formidable methods. While procedures like laser eye surgery are more extreme, sometimes it can be cumbersome to choose between a simple pair of glasses or contact lenses. Before making your selection, consider the advantages and drawbacks of both.

Contact Lenses vs. Eyeglasses: Which Is Better?

Contact lenses and standard prescription glasses both offer several benefits worthy of consideration.

Comfort and Convenience

Contact lenses are relatively easy to wear after consistent use. Their lightweight structure can be preferable to traditional eyeglasses, which put pressure on your face throughout the day.

Style and Aesthetics

Eyeglass frames come in all sorts of shades, shapes, and styles. A pair of spectacles complement your sense of fashion, functioning as a facial accessory with corrective properties as a bonus.

For those who may not prefer spectacles with their looks, contact lenses are a discreet option perfect for formal events and outings. Not all pairs of glasses will complement every item in your closet. As a result, you may need more than one spectacle set to suit your varying outfits. Contacts automatically work with anything you put on before leaving the house.

Costs: Initial and Ongoing

Generally, contact lenses are more expensive than standard prescription glasses. However, several variables could affect the long-term expenses for both eye care solutions. Upon initial purchase, contacts could cost less than eyeglasses. Further, the replacement cost for contacts may be higher than for replacement glasses.

Eye Health Considerations for Contact Lenses

Although glasses are a more protective option, many younger people gravitate toward contact lenses instead. If you decide contacts will better suit your specific vision needs, there are several considerations to help keep your eye health in good standing.

• Avoid exposure to water – You must remove your contacts when showering, swimming, or using a jacuzzi.

• Clean your contact lens case – Your case is as important as the contacts themselves. Replace the case every few months and regularly clean it with a solution.

• Do not sleep in your contact lenses – Always remove your contacts before bedtime. You shouldn’t sleep when wearing contacts unless your eye doctor suggests otherwise. 

• • Follow the eye doctor’s instructions – Your eye doctor’s directions are crucial to maintaining eye health when wearing contact lenses. Always consider their cleaning routine, replacement schedule, and wear time recommendations.

• Maintain good hygiene – Clean your palms and fingertips with soap and water. Dry your hands with a lint-free towel before touching your contacts.

• Never use tap water – Under no circumstances should you use plain tap water to rinse or store your contact lenses. Always clean your contacts with the recommended solution.
• Schedule eye exams – Regular checkups are crucial for maintaining eye health. Schedule appointments regularly to monitor the health of your eyes while wearing contact lenses.

While contact lenses are great for appearance, comfort, and vision correction, they can easily become problematic without the proper eye care routine.

Choosing the Best Vision Solution for Your Lifestyle

Spectacles and contacts suit specific kinds of wearers. Whether you’re an athlete seeking flexibility, a frequent traveler who prioritizes convenience, or an office worker valuing all-day comfort, the key to choosing between eyeglasses and contact lenses lies with your lifestyle. Take the time to weigh each option’s features, benefits, and challenges to ensure your final decision enhances both your vision and daily life.

Written in partnership with Tom White