Finding Relief: The Best Daily Contacts for Dry Eyes

13th Dec 2023

For many contact lens wearers, dry eyes are not just a minor annoyance but a daily struggle.

Selecting the right contact lens for managing this condition can be challenging, but recent advancements in lens technology offer several promising options.

What causes Dry eyes?

Ever wondered why your eyes feel like the Sahara desert when wearing contacts?

Dry eyes occur when our eyes either produce insufficient tears or the quality of tears isn't up to par. This condition can lead to discomfort, especially for contact lens wearers.

Other contributing factors that can cause dry eyes are age-related, hormonal changes caused by pregnancy, medications, exposure to wind or dry air or even medical conditions.

Available Types of Contact Lenses

  • Soft Contact Lenses - Ideal for people with chronic dry eyes, these lenses retain moisture and allow oxygen to pass through, aiding in eye comfort.
  • Rigid Gas-Permeable Lenses - These lenses are a durable choice offering clear vision, especially for astigmatism or irregular corneas.
  • Silicone Hydrogel Contact Lenses - A breakthrough in lens material, these lenses allow more oxygen to reach the cornea, reducing dryness and discomfort. They are a preferred choice despite their higher cost.
  • Daily Disposable Contact Lenses - Highly favoured for their convenience and reduced risk of irritation due to deposit buildup.

Best Daily Contacts for Dry Eyes (The Good and the Not-So-Good)

  • Dailies Total 1: These daily contact lenses have a high water gradient technology, meaning the lens surface is almost all water. They even release extra wetting agents when they sense dryness, keeping your eyes comfy all day.

Pros: Superb moisture, feels like you're wearing nothing.

Cons: They're pricey and can be a bit fiddly to handle.

  • Precision 1 - Each Precision 1 contact lens comes with a unique technology that locks in moisture, striking a balance between comfort and breathability.

Pros:: Keeps your eyes hydrated, great for daily wear, and good for sensitive peepers.

Cons: Not the best for those with astigmatism or need for multifocal.

  • Acuvue Oasys 1 Day - These disposable contacts come with Hydraluxe Technology, adding a layer of moisture that mimics your natural tears.

Pros: Excellent breathability, UV protection, perfect for those on the go.

Cons: Can be expensive for everyday use, and some might find them less breathable than other options.

  • Bausch and Lomb Ultra One Day Lens - These contact lenses use a next-gen material mixed with moisturisers and electrolytes, helping to stabilise your tear film and reduce dry eye symptoms.

Pros: Great moisture retention, ideal for extended wear.

Cons: More expensive, and there's a bit of a learning curve for putting them in and taking them out.

Note: These recommendations are based on eye care professionals' perspectives and opinions.

Tips for Dry Eye Management

  • Opt for daily disposables as they are great for minimising irritant buildup.
  • Rub your lenses when cleaning to remove deposits. it's more effective than just rinsing.
  • Experiment with different cleaning solutions, especially preservative-free types for sensitive eyes.
  • In dry or windy conditions, rewetting drops can be your lifesaver.
  • Use hypoallergenic makeup to avoid any eye irritation.

Conclusion

There's no one-brand-fits-all when it comes to contact lenses for dry eyes. We recommend consulting your eye care professional to ensure the best contact lens fits you.

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