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Breaking down the cost of contact lenses

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Why Prices Vary

A lot goes into the cost of contact lenses

At ACUVUE we provide a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP), but we don’t sell contacts directly, so our MSRP may not be the price you will pay out of pocket. The amount you pay for your lenses is ultimately determined by:

  • The type of contacts you are prescribed
  • The quantity of lenses you buy
  • Your insurance coverage
  • Your eye doctor or contact lens retailer
  • Where you live
  • Rewards and rebates

If you're interested in purchasing contact lenses, you'll first need to schedule an appointment with an eye doctor, who can write you a prescription. You'll then be able to buy the prescribed contact lenses at your eye doctor's office, online or at a retailer.

What to consider when comparing contact lens types

The prices shown above are for spherical lenses, meaning lenses that correct nearsightedness (myopia) and farsightedness (hyperopia). There are three things to note as you budget for contacts.

A year’s supply often means big savings

The MSRP prices shown above are based on annual supplies, which can not only help bring the cost per lens down, but can also mean you’re eligible for bigger rebates.

Daily disposables cost more than reusables

This comes down to the amount of lenses you’ll need in a year. Daily use of daily disposables means 365 lenses. Compare that to two-week lenses, which you’d only need about 26 of per year.

Contacts lenses for astigmatism or presbyopia add cost

Astigmatism requires what’s called a toric lens to fully correct vision and one of the most common solutions eye doctors prescribe for presbyopia are called multifocal lens. Both of these lens types are more complex, and because of this, carry a higher price.

Ways to Save

A few ways to cut costs

Use your insurance benefits

If you have vision insurance, check to see how much they’ll contribute towards your contact lenses. Some plans provide a set annual amount or discounts at certain retailers.

Get up to $250 a year with MyACUVUE® rewards‖

Depending what lens and supply is chosen, new wearers can get up to $250 a year and current wearers can get up to $150 a year in rewards when you sign up for MyACUVUE rewards and submit your proof of purchase.

Eye Exam Costs

Don’t forget to factor in exam fees

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Comprehensive eye exam fee

A comprehensive eye exam is an annual check-up to examine the structure, function and overall well-being of your eyes. This typically includes determining your glasses prescription. Even so, medical insurance billing rules are complex, and in some cases, the glasses prescription may be a separate itemized fee.

Touching a contact lens in the palm of left hand

Lens fitting fee

This is always an add-on to any eye examination for new and established contact lens wearers. It includes additional testing to determine your optimal contact lens fit, vision and comfort for the upcoming year. If you are a new wearer, it also includes instruction and training on using and caring for your new lenses.

Try ACUVUE and love it or get your money back^

If you aren't completely satisfied within 90 days, we'll refund you.^ That's our Comfort Promise. See terms and conditions.
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Get started with ACUVUE Contact Lenses

Try ACUVUE for free*

Provide some basic information and get a certificate for a free* trial pair

Find an eye doctor

Use our locator tool to find a doctor who can fit you with ACUVUE Contacts

Earn Rewards‖

Become a MyACUVUE® member and get access to exclusive offers and promotions
FAQs

Frequently asked questions

Can I buy contact lenses on ACUVUE.com?

You can’t buy contact lenses directly on ACUVUE.com. This site provides product information, helpful information for new and prospective wearers, and eye health information, but you’ll need to purchase your lenses from your eye doctor or a qualified retailer.

Why does the price I’m seeing elsewhere deviate from MSRP?

You may notice that the price you pay for contact lenses is different than a listed MSRP. There are a few reasons for that. Brick and mortar stores generally have more overhead costs  than online stores—like rent and employees—so they tend to have higher prices to offset this. Another reason could be your location. Living in a more expensive city can mean higher taxes, higher delivery costs, and higher overhead costs. All these can contribute to a higher price tag than MSRP.

For what types of out-of-pocket vision-related healthcare costs can I use my HSA or FSA?

Please check with your specific provider or plan administrator for exact out-of-pocket expenses that your HSA or FSA dollars can be used towards, but in general eligible expenses include vision exams, prescription glasses, contact lens fittings, and contact lenses.

How much can vision insurance save me?

It will vary based on your specific insurance plan. Check with your employer or insurance provider to get the details of your plan. Keep in mind that most insurance plans require that you spend all of your exam fees and materials allowance in one transaction. Be sure to talk with your doctor's office about these details.

Are contact lenses cheaper than glasses?

Contact lenses can be more expensive than glasses to start out, but they also may be a lot cheaper to replace than a broken pair of eyeglasses. Contacts also are often wholly or partially covered by most vision insurance plans, which can reduce or even eliminate a patient's upfront costs for contact lenses once they've had an eye exam. If you're interested in contact lenses, it can be a good idea to check your vision insurance plan and see if contacts are covered.

How much is an eye exam without insurance?

Generally speaking, eye exams will cost somewhere between $50 and $200 without including the cost of contact lenses or eyeglasses. Eye exam costs can vary based on several factors, such as the location you live in and whether your need for an eye exam also includes a contact lens exam.

Footnotes

‖ Reward amount dependent on ACUVUE® product and quantity purchased and if you are a new wearer. Must get an eye exam and purchase from participating provider. Original receipt required. Valid thru 12/31/26. Rewards paid in the form of an ACUVUE® Prepaid Mastercard®. Use your card everywhere Mastercard is accepted in the U.S. issued by The Bancorp Bank, Member FDIC, pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated. Mastercard is a registered trademark, and the circles design is a trademark of Mastercard International Incorporated. Your use of the prepaid card is governed by the Cardholder Agreement, and some fees may apply. This is not a gift card. Please note that prepaid cards are subject to expiration, so pay close attention to the expiration date of the card.

 

^Available on up to two opened boxes of contacts. Copy of purchase and fitting fee receipt required. Refund by mail within 4 to 6 weeks. Cannot be combined with rebate. For additional terms and conditions and for complete instructions download the claim form. Offer valid until December 31, 2026.

 

*Free trial contact lenses available only from participating eye care professionals. Exam and fitting fees not included.

 

Important Information for Contact Lens Wearers: ACUVUE® Contact Lenses are available by prescription only 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 the lens care instructions provided by your eye doctor. Do not wear contact lenses if you have an eye infection, or experience eye discomfort, excessive tearing, vision changes, redness or other eye problems. If one of these conditions occurs, remove the lens and contact your eye doctor immediately. For more information on proper wear, care and safety, talk to your eye care professional, call 1-800-843-2020, or download the Patient Instruction Guides.

 

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