Contact lenses aid vision in a less conspicuous way than glasses, and many contact lens wearers find them to be more convenient for their lifestyles. Whether you occasionally wear contacts, or wear them every day, it’s important to know when to upgrade or change your contact lenses, and which features appeal to you.
Here are five reasons it’s time to change your contacts:
1. Changes in your vision
If you are experiencing frequent headaches, you’ve noticed your vision has gotten blurrier or you find yourself squinting to see things more clearly, it could be time to update your prescription and change your contact lenses.
The American Optometric Association recommends that adults get their eyes checked at least once every two years, or as recommended by their doctor.
Eyes change with age, and routine checkups help you understand when it is time to update your prescription and keep your vision in good general health. Be sure to get a copy of your prescription at your next appointment, and follow only your updated prescription when ordering new lenses.
2. Maintenance
Upgrading your contacts could be for a reason as simple as maintenance. All contacts require you to take hygienic measures when handling them. Reusable contacts involve more care and precaution since they are only recommended to be replaced once every month, or every few months based on the lenses.
Improper use of reusable contacts, whether it’s from overuse or unsanitary practices, can lead to bacteria buildup. This can then lead to irritation, cloudiness and even eye infections, which can cause permanent damage to your vision.
Upgrading to disposable or daily disposable lenses can provide more assurance in cleanliness and better protect your eyes’ health. Replacing certain lenses as often as every day can also save time.
3. Extra care for dry eyes
A number of things can cause dry or itchy eyes, from allergies due to seasonal changes and pet dander, to side effects from medications and other health conditions. If eye drops alone aren’t providing enough relief, it could be time to look into an alternative type of lens or lens solution.
Upgrading to contact lenses that are specially made for dry eyes, like Bausch + Lomb Ultra or CooperVision Proclear can improve or take away the feeling of dryness.
If you use monthly contact lenses, switching to a solution that provides more moisture for your lenses is another option to consider. Ultimately, catering to your dry eye needs with the correct tools in your daily routine can provide much more relief in the long run.
4. Improved contact lens technology
Updated technology is another reason to change your contacts. Depending on your needs or preferences, there are features for everyone:
- UV protection is included in some contact lenses, and absorbs much of the UV radiation as it hits the surface of the eye. This can help reduce your risk of developing cataracts, which can develop due to exposure to UV radiation over time. Remember to also wear sunglasses, as contacts don’t cover your entire eye.
- Photochromic contact lenses provide UV protection by darkening when they are exposed to sunlight. They can also provide added comfort to your eyes on brighter days and soften the effects of blue light and, accordingly, digital eye strain.
- Multifocal contacts for astigmatism correct astigmatism and presbyopia, which means you can keep comfortably wearing your contact lenses after the age of 40.
5. Aesthetic bonuses
Some prescription contact lenses come in different colours, giving the wearer the opportunity to add some vivid intensity or modification to their eyes. Choose from natural eye colours or hues that enhance your own. With so many colours available, you could even alternate and match them to your clothing from one day to the next, if desired.
Note: Coloured contacts are thicker than regular ones, which means it’s extremely important to be vigilant about cleanliness and proper contact lens care due to their susceptibility to infection. Costume contacts should be verified by an eye care professional before they can be considered safe. Our verified Halloween contact lenses come in a huge range of colours and designs, whether you’re after a realistic effect or something a little more eye-catching.
When it comes to upgrading or changing your contact lenses, there are so many beneficial features to choose from. Remember to always use hygienic standards when handling any lenses, and consult your eye doctor before deciding which ones are best for you.
Ready to shop? See our selection of contact lenses online.
