How Do Contact Lenses Work?

How do contact lenses work?

Thinking about switching to contact lenses? In this ACUVUE^® guide, we discuss what contact lenses are, how they work, and the visual benefits they can provide.

What are contact lenses?

Understanding how contact lenses work is key to appreciating the freedom and clarity they offer. They rest comfortably on the surface of your eye and correct vision by addressing the prescription, such as short-sightedness and astigmatism. If left untreated, these refractive errors prevent light from focusing properly on the retina, which can lead to blurry vision.

Explore how different contact lenses work with ACUVUE^® and discover the many benefits they can bring. Especially if you’re seeking the freedom of a more active, frame-free lifestyle.

How do different contact lenses work?

Let’s take a closer look at how different types of contact lenses work and who they’re designed for.

How do multifocal contact lenses work?

Multifocal contact lenses combine multiple prescriptions into one lens, helping you see distance, intermediate and clear tasks.¹ This design lets your eyes switch focus naturally without needing to change lenses or reach for your glasses.

Learn more about multifocal contact lenses

How do toric contact lenses work?

Toric contact lenses are specially designed to correct astigmatism. They have two powers to correct for the rugby-ball shaped eye, providing clear vision.³

Explore toric contact lenses

How do monthly contact lenses work?

Monthly contact lenses are approved for extended wear, meaning you can wear them for up to 30 days. Your Eye Care Professional will guide you on whether these contact lenses are right for you.

Explore monthly contact lens options

How do daily contact lenses work?

Daily disposable contact lenses are designed for single use, meaning you only wear them once and can then dispose of them at the end of the day. There’s no need to clean and store them overnight. Each lens comes in a convenient blister pack with saline solution, making them a simple, hygienic choice for active and busy lifestyles.

Explore daily contact lens options

Advantages of wearing contact lenses

When it comes to comfort and convenience, contact lenses offer advantages that go far beyond vision correction. Whether you’re active or simply want a frame-free look, contact lenses offer a comfortable, more flexible appearance.

1. Wider field of vision

Without glasses frames that can limit your side view, contact lenses sit directly on your eye, providing a full, natural field of vision.

2. Enhanced comfort during physical activity

Whether you’re going for a gym session or a weekend hike, contact lenses don’t easily slip or fog, making them a great choice for an active lifestyle.

3. Natural look and feel

Contact lenses give you clear vision without altering your face or look, which can make you feel more confident about your natural appearance.

4. Weather-friendly wear

Contact lenses perform well in different weather conditions, from rainy to hot days. They don’t fog up or get wet like glasses, keeping your vision steady regardless of the weather.

5. No glare or reflection

Contact lenses reduce reflective distractions such as screen glare or sun flare, providing a more consistent visual experience.

6. Tailored to complex prescriptions

From astigmatism to age-related vision, contact lenses come in different designs that can fit your specific prescription and lifestyle needs.

7. Greater visual stability

Because they move naturally with your eye, contact lenses help keep your vision steady and sharp. Whether you’re shifting focus from a screen to a notebook or heading out for a walk.

How do I know if contact lenses are right for me?

Finding the right contact lenses is all about matching what suits your eyes and your everyday routine. Whether you’re new to contact lenses or thinking about switching, here are a few things to consider:

Lifestyle

If you’re looking for a low-maintenance option, daily disposables offer a fresh pair every day, perfect for busy routines. For full-time wearers, contact lenses replaced every two weeks or every month provide greater flexibility and long-term value.

Prescription needs

If you have astigmatism, toric lenses are may be recommended. As for age-related near vision challenges such as presbyopia, you may require multifocal lenses to provide clear vision.

Comfort

Many modern soft contact lenses today use silicon hydrogel, a soft, breathable material that helps retain moisture and support all-day comfort.⁴

Get started with ACUVUE^® contact lenses

Try ACUVUE^® for free*

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Locate an Eye care professional near you where you can get fitted with ACUVUE^® contact lenses.

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Footnotes

All ACUVUE^® contact lenses have UV Blocking to help provide protection against transmission of harmful UV radiation to the cornea and into the eye. UV absorbing contact lenses are NOT substitutes for protective UV absorbing eyewear such as UV absorbing goggles or sunglasses because they do not completely cover the eye and surrounding area. You should continue to use UV absorbing eyewear as directed by your optician.

*T&Cs apply: 1 trial per person. 18+. Professional consultation and fitting fees may apply and are not included. Subject to Optician approval. Participating Opticians only. For full terms and conditions see here: https://www.acuvue.com/en-gb/terms-conditions/

Important Information for contact lens wearers: ACUVUE^® Contact Lenses can be used for vision correction. An Eye Care Professional will determine whether contact lenses are right for you. Although rare, serious eye problems can develop while wearing contact lenses. To help avoid these problems, follow the wear and replacement schedule and instructions on proper lens care. Do not wear contact lenses if you have an eye infection, any eye disease or systemic disease that may affect the eye, or if you are allergic to any ingredients. If you experience eye discomfort, excessive tearing, vision changes, redness or other eye problems, remove the lens and contact your Eye Care Professional immediately. For detailed information on proper wear, care, warnings and precautions, talk to your Eye Care Professional and carefully read the Instructions for Use available on the Johnson & Johnson website https://www.e-ifu.com/

References

1.JJV Data on file 2022. CSM- ACUVUE^® PUPIL OPTIMIZED DESIGN Technology: JJVC contact lenses, design features, and associated benefits.

2.National Library of Medicine. Biofocal contact lenses: history, types, characteristics, and actual state and problems. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2699779/

3.Healthline. Best contacts for astigmatism. Updated July 1, 2022. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/health/contacts-for-astigmatism

4.Optometrists Network. Hydrogel vs silicone hydrogel lenses. Available at: https://www.optometrists.org/general-practice-optometry/optical/guide-to-contact-lenses/hydrogel-vs-silicone-hydrogel-lenses/

How Do Contact Lenses Work?