Contact lenses vs. Glasses: what's the best option?

Your optician has noticed a change in your vision and you start to wonder: should I wear prescription glasses or contact lenses?

There are lots of options that can help with eye disorders such as astigmatism, myopia, hyperopia or presbyopia. Luckily, there are easy solutions to help tackle blurred vision, eyestrain and other visual health problems. Contact lenses or a pair of prescription glasses can definitely help. But which option should you choose? There is no correct answer to this but it is all up to our own preference. In this article, we'll help you decide which option would be more convenient for you.

Glasses, the most classic solution

Prescription glasses are usually the first thing that comes to mind. Traditionally, we all think of glasses as the best way to help support eye health conditions. In recent times, glasses have also become more of an accessory and not just a tool to help improve eyesight.

We believe that using glasses as an alternative to contact lenses can be a positive. We suggest that you use glasses as a break from contact lenses or in situations where wearing glasses might be more practical. However, wearing just glasses might be limiting for you.

Glasses tend to have a narrower field of vision: as they are limited by the lenses and the frame, they do not allow you to have a completely corrected vision at all angles. In addition, prescription glasses involve more of an investment and are more complicated to replace. Also, playing sports and some leisure activities with glasses can be a nightmare.

Lenses, the most practical option

Contact lenses can fulfill the same duties that glasses can. You can find different types of contact lenses depending on your wearing habits. You can get lenses for daily, monthly, or fortnightly use. There are also different types of contact lenses depending on your vision problem. You can use toric lenses for astigmatism, multifocal lenses for presbyopia or spherical lenses for myopia and hyperopia.

Glasses and daily contact lenses

As you can see, you have many options that can be adapted to each situation and preference. Contact lenses can provide a better quality of life and allow you to do almost every kind of activity. Here are the main advantages of contact lenses:

  1. Contact lenses have a greater peripheral vision. They allow you to see all around you without your vision being blocked.
  2. With contact lenses, you won't have to worry about any reflections from surfaces.
  3. Contact lenses never fog up.
  4. The use of contact lenses allow you to carry out all kinds of activities without any limitation. You can do sports or go out at night with greater freedom of movement.
  5. You can wear any type of sunglasses if you wear contact lenses. You can even get lenses with a UV filter to guarantee maximum safety against any harmful rays.
  6. Replacing contact lenses due to loss or change of diopters is much easier and a lot cheaper than glasses.

Conclusion, glasses or contact lenses?

As you may have spotted, it is not about choosing one or the other, but about combining both and using each one at different times. In addition, it is important that you always follow the advice of your optician to achieve the best care for your eye health. Our favourite option? Daily use of contact lenses, combined with glasses as an alternative in different scenarios.

Everclear ELITE daily contact lenses

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everclear ELITE, exclusive to Vision Direct, are made from an ultra-hydrating formula that guarantees complete comfort. They are ideal for users suffering from dry eye syndrome, as they retain hydration for a longer time. These daily lenses are made with a silicone hydrogel material that allows comfort for up to 12 hours of wear. everclear ELITE lenses have a UV filter built in, so you'll be protected from any harmful rays. Plus, with these disposable lenses, you won't have to worry about any maintenance.

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Tips on using contact lenses for first time users and experts

Whether it's your first time wearing contact lenses, or you are an expert, here are some tips to make wearing contact lenses simple for you.

  • Switch to daily contact lenses: If you suffer from dry eyes and also wear glasses just occasionally, disposable lenses are perfect for you. Daily lenses don't require any kind of routine care, making them easy and comfortable to use. Disposable lenses are breathable and comfortable, as you can replace them at any time with a fresh new pair. Our opticians recommend everclear ELITE, as they're hydrating, which allows your eyes to be and feel healthy at all times.
  • Care and hygiene: Any type of activity that involves direct contact with the eyes requires basic hygiene habits to avoid eye infections. Washing your hands with soap and water is an essential step before putting in and taking off your contact lenses. Vision Direct soap sheets are perfect for these situations.
  • Adjustment period: When you're wearing contact lenses for the first time, or you change lenses, it's totally normal to go through a period of adjustment. It's important to follow the advice of your optician and go to them if you have any questions or find your lenses uncomfortable.
  • Get an eye test every 2 years: It's important to see an eye specialist every two years to make sure your contact lens prescription is up to date. By visiting an eye health professional you can prevent several vision problems.
  • Always carry a bottle of eye drops with you. If you wear contact lenses, you can suffer from dry eyes and these will help you tackle them. We recommend everclear eye drops for instant relief.