Contact Lens Brands: Everything You Need to Know
Aesthetic and practical, contact lenses are a go-to choice for millions around the world. Whether you’re seeking a glasses-free lifestyle or want to change your eye colour, contact lenses can be a great choice.
These thin, curved lenses sit directly on the cornea to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia.
Although they require more care than eyeglasses, wearers find them more practical, offering a wider field of vision and freedom during physical activities, for starters.
Types of contact lenses
Not all contact lenses are created equal. Depending on your eye condition, lifestyle and comfort preferences, there’s a lens type that’s right for you.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Soft contacts: Made of silicone and hydrogel. They promote breathability and comfort. However, options may be more limited for those who require high astigmatism correction (high cylinder).
- Hard (RGP) contacts: Made of silicone-containing compounds. Although not as initially comfortable as soft contacts, they provide sharper vision and are good for people with dry eyes and high prescriptions.
- Multifocal contact lenses: Available in both soft and hard contact lens material. They combine prescriptions for multiple vision correction needs, which makes them perfectly suited to those who suffer from presbyopia.
DID YOU KNOW?
The first contact lenses were made of glass in 1888, by German ophthalmologist Adolf Fick.
Monthly vs daily contact lenses
One of the most important decisions you’ll make when choosing contacts is how often you want to replace them. Here’s how monthly and daily lenses compare:
- Monthly contact lenses: Often more cost-effective, as they are reusable for up to 30 days with proper cleaning and care. They are durable and made from breathable materials, making them a good option for those who wear contacts daily.
- Daily contact lenses: Single-use lenses that get discarded after being worn for the day. They offer the ultimate convenience since they don’t require daily cleaning or storage, making them hassle-free.
Contact lens brands
Johnson & Johnson
Johnson & Johnson is a leader in contact lens technology and was the first company to invent the fantastic silicone hydrogel material that is now used in almost all contact lenses on the market.
Johnson & Johnson is most well-known for introducing Acuvue contacts, the world’s #1 prescription contact lens brand.
Acuvue was the first company to present and sell daily disposable contact lenses, and they offer a wide range of options for contact lens wearers with different wear time preferences, including toric lenses for astigmatism.
Bausch and Lomb
Another famous manufacturer of contact lenses is Bausch & Lomb.
They offer great contact lens brands: Biotrue, Softlens, PureVision, Infuse and Ultra.
BioTrue is an excellent contact lens brand for dry eyes. Their spherical daily disposable contact lenses will keep your eyes hydrated all day.
Soflens and PureVision, on the other hand, offer a wide range of options, including toric, multifocal, aspherical lenses and more.
CooperVision
In recent years, CooperVision has climbed to the top by offering some of the highest-quality contact lenses on the market. CooperVision has different contact lens brands to match your eyes’ unique conditions, from toric to multifocal, and even aspherical lenses.
Alcon
Alcon, which began as a modest ophthalmology shop in 1945, has become the second-largest division of Novartis, one of the world’s most successful and respected healthcare firms.
Alcon has recognisable contact lens brands that produce a wide range of contact lenses, including toric, spherical, extended wear, multifocal and silicone hydrogel lenses.
The brands are Air Optix, Dailies, Precision and Freshlook, which even offer coloured contact lenses for a fun twist.
Does contact lens brand matter?
Ultimately, the contact lens brand does matter.
While all contact lenses are designed to correct vision, not all are created equal. Different brands use different technologies, materials and moisture retention systems, which can dramatically affect your comfort, clarity and eye health.
Because contact lenses are medical devices, they must be prescribed by an eye care professional.
Your optometrist will consider your eye shape, lifestyle and vision needs before recommending the right brand and type for you. They’ll also guide you on lens care, hygiene and replacement schedules to help keep your eyes healthy and comfortable
What is the best contact lens brand for me?
If you’re already wearing contacts, you likely have a go-to brand. That said, if you’re considering switching, the first step is to get a test to get refitted. Then, understanding the top brands will help you find the best brand for you.
Here’s a quick recap of some of the most trusted and widely recommended manufacturers for contact lens brands:
- Johnson & Johnson: Known for innovation and comfort, their daily disposable and toric lenses for astigmatism are especially popular.
- Bausch and Lomb: Especially good for dry eyes and multifocal needs, with a solid lineup of daily, monthly and speciality lenses.
- CooperVision: They provide all-day comfort and cover many different needs, with the option to buy in bulk.
- Alcon: Breathable options for extended wear, and coloured lenses
Ultimately, the best contact lens brand for you is the one that fits your eyes and lifestyle the best, and that’s something your optometrist will help you figure out.
Whether you’re prioritising hydration, convenience, sharp vision, or affordability, a lens out there checks all the boxes. Trust your eye care provider and take the time to test what feels right—your eyes will thank you.
Feel free to reach out to our optical dispensers for any advice on contact lenses and vision correction; they’re here to help.
