Standard, or yearly wear, contact lenses are still available, but they are not the best choice for teens. Standard lenses can be costly and are sold by the lens. As teens often tear or lose lenses frequently, replacement cost can quickly become prohibitive. Standard contacts are not as healthy for the eyes and can be harder to insert and remove than disposables.
Disposable lenses are much more cost effective. Most are sold in boxes of six lenses, ensuring that you always have your next pair or a spare on hand. Most teen’s eyes have different corrections needs, so you will likely need to buy two boxes at a time. Disposable contacts are also healthier for the eyes because there’s less bacterial build-up. A new pair is inserted every few weeks, minimizing the risk of infection. If your teen loses or tears a disposable lens, you’ll have a replacement already on hand. Disposable lenses save time, money and hassle.
Sleeping in Contacts?
The latest advances in contact lens technology are disposable lenses than can be safely worn overnight and for an extended period of time, from two weeks to a month. These lenses are referred to as extended-wear lenses. Many of them are made of silicon hydrogel, a more comfortable and breathable contact lens material.
Extended-wear lenses are a boon to those with active lifestyles, but not all contacts can be slept in safely. Discuss this option with your Optometrist before your teen sleeps in their contacts. Extended-wear contacts require minimal care, but must be replaced according to schedule to ensure healthy wear.