For those who have never tried them, wearing contacts might seem a little intimidating. Contact lenses are easier to wear and more comfortable than ever before but it’s still normal to have questions about contacts if you’re considering trying them out for the first time.
Here are some of the most common concerns we hear from customers regarding wearing contact lenses.
What if I’m uncomfortable touching my eyes?
A very valid question! Although it might seem unlikely, you will probably become used to the feeling. If you’re reasonably comfortable applying mascara and eyeliner, you are already used to having your hands very close to your eyes. Just don’t forget to wash your hands before putting your lenses in.
What happens at a contact lens fitter appointment?
A Vogue Optical optician with specific training will show you the different contact lens options and then show you how to put the contact lenses in. This is a good opportunity to ask the optician any questions you may have.
What happens if I call asleep with my contact lenses in?
Your optician will strongly advise against sleeping or napping with your lenses in. Contact lenses need oxygen to fight off nasty bacteria so when you’re sleeping, oxygen gets cut off. You will likely wake up with your eyes feeling tender. It’s best to take a break from wearing contacts for a day or two while the redness and soreness goes away. If you notice any signs of infection, you should see an optician or optometrist as soon as you can.
Can I wear contact lenses if I have an astigmatism?
Absolutely! Astigmatism is caused when there is a slight imperfection to the curve of the eye and they are incredibly common. Thankfully there are contact lenses designed specifically for those who have astigmatism.
What are the different types of contact lenses?
Vogue Optical carries several different types from the world’s most trusted contact lens manufacturers.
- Daily Disposables
- Monthly Disposables
- Toric/Astigmatism contact lenses
- Silicone Hydrogel contact lenses
- Multifocal contact lenses
Are “cosmetic” contact lenses safe?
Some Halloween-style contact lenses are made with cheap, low-quality materials. We don’t recommend people use them unless ordered through an optical store where an optician can assure you are getting a high-quality product. Wearing poorly produced contact lenses can damage your cornea and harm your vision permanently.
Are glasses prescriptions and contact lens prescriptions the same?
No. Your glasses prescription measures the size of the lens, the distance between lenses and the distance of the temple (the “arm” of glasses that reaches from the lens to the back of your ear). Meanwhile, a contact lens prescription measures the curvature of the lens, how the lens fits, the lens brand and its expiration date.
Why do contact lenses expire?
The lens material and its packaging begin degrading after two years and this degradation can lead to harmful bacteria getting into the lens. Wearing contact lenses beyond their two-year expiry date is dangerous as it can lead to harmful infections.
Can I wear contact lenses while swimming?
Oceans contain a lot of bacteria and pools contain bacteria and chemicals. These bacteria and chemicals can get trapped between your eye and the contact lens and cause infection. So, we strongly advise against swimming while wearing contact lenses.
