Eye Society

What are extended-wear contact lenses?

Aug 19, 2024

You have places to go, people to see, and things to do. There's no time to futz around with lenses that don't fit your lifestyle. Daily disposables work well, but you have to throw them away after a single use. Biweekly contacts last up to 14 days, but you have to replace them regularly.

Behold! A convenient option for even the busiest of bees: extended-wear contact lenses. You can wear a single pair for up to 1 month, giving you more time to work on your tan, climb the career ladder, or chill with your favorite people.

Understanding extended-wear contact lenses

Before you grab a pair of these wondrous contacts, take a few minutes to learn more about how they work and what benefits they offer.

Definition and types

Many people wonder about the difference between extended-wear and continuous-wear contact lenses. The truth? There's no difference at all. Both terms refer to lenses worn for anywhere from 1 week to 1 month. 

Benefits of extended-wear lenses

Extended-wear contact lenses are extremely convenient. You can wear them for up to 1 month, eliminating the need to clean your lenses daily. If you're a bit squeamish, extended-wear contacts also help you avoid touching your eyes constantly.

Finally, extended-wear contacts allow you to see clearly from the second you jump out of bed until you close your eyes at night. You can snuggle under the covers and read a book, watch a movie as you drift off to sleep, or read the Sunday paper without having to search for your glasses or stumble into the bathroom to put in your contacts.

Types of extended-wear contact lenses

Extended-wear lenses come in standard and multifocal varieties. Talk with your eye care professional about which type makes the most sense for you.

Standard extended-wear lenses

Standard extended-wear lenses are usually made from silicone hydrogel, which allows oxygen to reach your corneas. Like the rest of your body, your corneas need oxygen to function properly. A lack of oxygen leads to dryness and itchiness, and it may even cause your vision to blur. Silicone hydrogel kicks dryness to the curb, keeping your eyes comfortable all day long.

So, how long can you wear extended-wear contact lenses? That depends on which brand your eye care professional prescribed. Bausch & Lomb, Biofinity, and ACUVUE® all produce lenses designed for extended wear. Bausch & Lomb ULTRA® lenses last up to 1 month and use MoistureSeal® technology to maintain adequate moisture levels for as long as 16 hours.

Biofinity lenses by CooperVision® use Aquaform Comfort Science technology to increase moisture and allow more oxygen to reach your corneas. The company uses silicone hydrogel for maximum comfort. ACUVUE VITA® lenses combine HydraMax™ technology and INFINITY EDGE™ design principles to keep you comfortable day in and day out. Both types of lenses last for up to 1 month.

Extended-wear multifocal lenses

Extended-wear multifocal contact lenses combine multiple prescriptions, making it easier to see everything you're doing. Standard lenses can correct either near or far-sighted vision. Multifocal lenses correct both types of vision, so there's no need to carry a pair of reading glasses or squint to see things in the distance.

These lenses are especially helpful for adults with presbyopia, a condition that makes it difficult to focus on objects close to you. If you recently turned 40 (your secret is safe with us!), you may find reading, doing puzzles, and performing other close-up tasks more difficult. Multifocal lenses can help.

Duration of wear and safety

As noted earlier, extended-wear contact lenses are good for up to 1 month. However, the lifespan of your lenses depends on how you use them. To get the biggest bang for your buck, follow these tips:

Avoid touching your eyes

Remove your contacts before swimming

Get regular eye exams

Clean your lenses with an approved cleaning solution

Choosing the right extended-wear lenses

So, what are the best extended-wear contact lenses? It really depends on your needs. Consider the following factors.

Budget: Some lenses cost more than others. Determine how much you can afford to spend before you start shopping.

Vision needs: If you have presbyopia or another vision condition, you may need something other than a standard lens.

Convenience: Many extended-wear lenses last for up to 1 month, but there are brands with shorter lifespans. Think carefully about how much time you can dedicate to contact lens care.

Embrace advanced lens technology

Extended-wear contact lenses accommodate a variety of lifestyles and vision needs, making them extremely versatile. Schedule an eye exam today to ensure your new contacts are the perfect fit for your needs. And hey, check out these pretty sweet coupons to save money on your new contacts while you’re at it.

Frequently asked questions

Can I sleep in extended-wear contact lenses?

Yes. Several brands offer extended-wear contacts designed for 24/7 wear.

What should I do if I experience discomfort or dryness with extended-wear lenses?

If you experience discomfort or dryness with your new contacts, make an appointment with your eye care professional.

How do I know if extended-wear lenses are right for me?

Extended-wear lenses may be right for you if you want to spend less time thinking about your contacts and more time enjoying life. If you're not sure which lenses to get, it's wise to consult an eye care professional.