How to make contacts more comfortable
If you don't wear the most comfortable contacts, you'll never be able to see why it's so important (get it?). Wearing glasses will give you that pseudo-intellectual trendy look, but contact lenses provide more freedom. Have you ever seen a football player wearing glasses while on the pitch? Probably not! Although wearing contact lenses gives you more freedom, there can be a few common discomfort issues, such as dryness, allergies, incorrect fit, and eye infections.
Understanding contact lens comfort
Getting contact lenses isn't as easy as buying candy over the counter — you need a qualified professional to fit your lens properly. Your lens should fit comfortably on the thin tear film coating the cornea.
Factors affecting comfort
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An ill-fitted contact lens
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Environmental factors, such as humidity levels, altitude, and dust
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Seasonal allergies
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Eye infections
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Friction between the eyelid and surface
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Shape of the lens
Your contact lens material may also make a difference in your comfort levels. Water-content lenses are comfortable but can cause dry eyes, while silicone lenses aid oxygen flow to the cornea.
Types of comfortable contacts
The most commonly used contact lenses are daily disposables. A fresh pair daily means clean lenses for your eyes, which, let's face it, saves you from having to be overly hygienic.
If you enjoy the aesthetics of colored contact lenses because they make your eyes sparkle — disco balls are so trendy right now — you can also source the most comfortable colored contacts from our collection.
These hydrogel and silicone lenses absorb water, providing a comfortable mold (kind of like a memory foam mattress for the eye). If you have astigmatism, you should consider cylindrical lenses called toric lenses for the ultimate comfort.
Tips for increasing comfort with contacts
Irrespective of the type of contact lens you have fitted, you can make them more comfortable.
Proper lens care
Give your lenses longevity by storing them in a proper lens container — this will prevent dust from sticking to the lens. If you look after lenses, they could age as well as you. Keep your lenses youthful by avoiding sleeping in them, washing your hands before handling contact lenses, and using eye drops to lubricate them. When cleaning lenses with your recommended solution, stick with the same rule that you use for alcoholic beverages: Never mix substances!
Correct usage
Contact lenses should be as comfortable as your favorite pair of jeans. If you insert a lens inside out, you have little chance of contact lens comfort. Put the lens over your fingertip, and let it form a small bowl shape with neat edges. If the edges of your lens flare like a Flamenco dress, they're inside out.
Solutions for specific needs
There's no one-size-fits-all when it comes to contact lenses, especially if your eyes have specific needs (like you).
Enhancing comfort with colored contacts
Whether you choose enhancement tints to make your eyes sparkle or a full cosmetic change, your colored contacts should provide the same level of comfort and functionality as your regular lenses. The most comfortable colored contacts are usually FDA-approved and come in rigid, soft or gas-permeable types — an eye care professional can help you choose the right brand.
By using eye drops, staying hydrated, and following a daily disinfecting routine, you can improve the comfort of your lenses while enjoying your new look.
Comfortable contacts for astigmatism
The most comfortable contacts for astigmatism are soft toric lenses, as they ensure the light is directed to the right part of the retina. Toric lenses have thicker parts that compensate for the cornea's irregular shape (astigmatism is the uneven shape of the eye's lens). These specific types of lenses require getting used to, so if they're uncomfortable, you might need to change your prescription — feeling like you're starring in the Matrix movie is the first sign that something's wrong with your lenses.
When to consult an eye care professional
If you experience ongoing issues, it might be time to consult an eye care professional.
Signs of trouble
If your contact lens is a poor fit, you may encounter redness, movement of the lens, itchy and dry eyes, blurred vision, and light sensitivity.
Regular checkups and consultations
Over time, your vision changes. Regular checkups will ensure you always have the correct lens. Your eye care professional will adjust lenses, monitor the fitting of new lenses, address needs, and adjust accordingly.
There's a lot of trial and error before you find the perfect fit with contact lenses, which is a bit like dating and searching for the "one." If you're asking yourself, "what are the most comfortable contacts?", you'll need to talk to an eye care professional for guidance.
For the ultimate contact lens comfort, eat healthily (take-out food doesn't count), keep your lenses clean, avoid allergens, and go for regular checkups.
FAQs
What are the most comfortable contact lenses on the market today?
This is quite subjective, but many people opt for daily contacts like AquaSoft® Daily.
How can I make my colored contacts feel more comfortable?
Make sure they're fitted correctly and opt for a high-quality, reputable brand name. Get them fitted by a professional.
Are there specific brands known for comfortable astigmatism contacts?
Yes. They include Air Optix, Biofinity, and Acuvue Oasys.