When you require vision correction, many people select contacts over glasses. Contacts can be more convenient and discreet than glasses, and allow for more vigorous activity such as running or contact sports.
Once you’ve decided you want contacts, you’ll have to choose which type fit you and your lifestyle the best. For most contact wearers, that means choosing between two types of soft lenses—daily disposables vs. monthly reusables.
Prescription Type
Although most lens prescriptions can be filled in either daily or monthly versions, there are exceptions to the rule. If you have a particularly complex or strong prescription, daily lenses may not be possible. Your optometrist can discuss your options.
Convenience
Monthly contact lenses must be cleaned and soaked in contact solution after every wear to avoid the growth of bacteria and particles. For most wearers, this happens at night before going to sleep. This process may be inconvenient or tedious for some, but can be incorporated quickly into one’s nighttime routine.
Daily lenses, by comparison, are convenient because there’s no maintenance. You can simply toss daily contacts into the trash each day. There’s no solution or accessories to buy for these lenses. However, if you wear daily lenses more than once or not as directed, you will want to clean them as you would reusable lenses to avoid bacteria.
Cost
Up front, monthly contacts usually cost a little bit less than daily lenses. You pay for one pair each month (or two pairs if you opt for a two-week contact lens option), whereas daily lenses demand a purchase of at least 30 pairs every month. However, reusable lenses also require that you purchase sterilizing contact solution and a contact case to store them when not in use, which can add up over time.
Everyday Comfort
Ultimately, you’ll be the person who decides which product is best for you. Comfort will always be a major factor to consider. Because daily contacts are only used once, they’ll always be thin and usually very comfortable.
In contrast, monthly contacts are typically thicker in order to last 30 days. Some people feel the contacts more obviously on their eyes, which can be uncomfortable at times.
Visiting your optometrist and getting your vision checked annually is an important part of your overall eye health. These professionals can perform a contact fitting and prescribe the right contacts for your needs.