For millions of Canadians in need of vision correction, contact lenses are a great alternative to wearing glasses. They offer a comfortable way to see the world, once you learn how to put in contact lenses properly. This guide will help you understand the different types of contact lenses available and how to choose the best option for your vision needs, lifestyle, and comfort.
Getting the Right Contact Lens Prescription
To get contact lenses, you first need a specific contact lens prescription from an optometrist. This is different from a glasses prescription because it includes extra measurements for a safe and comfortable fit on your eye. A contact lens fitting ensures your lenses match your eye's unique shape and provide clear vision.
Your prescription includes:
- Power (sphere): Corrects nearsightedness or farsightedness.
- Base curve & Diameter: Matches the curvature and size of your eye for a proper fit.
- Cylinder & Axis: For astigmatism correction, if needed.
- Add Power: For multifocal lenses to help with reading, if needed.
Types of Contact Lenses by Replacement Schedule
One of the first choices you'll make is how often to replace your lenses. This decision impacts convenience, cost, and your daily routine.
| Lens Type | Replacement Schedule | Best For | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Daily Disposable | Every day | Convenience, travel, occasional wear, or sensitive eyes. | Maximum hygiene with no cleaning required. |
| Bi-Weekly | Every 2 weeks | A balance between the freshness of dailies and the cost of monthlies. | Fresher than a monthly lens but more affordable than dailies. |
| Monthly | Every 30 days | Full-time wearers who want the most economical option. | Lowest cost per wear for everyday use. |
Contact Lenses by Vision Correction Need
Just like glasses, contact lenses are designed to fix specific vision problems. Your prescription will determine which type you need.
Standard Contact Lenses
If you are simply nearsighted or farsighted, standard (spherical) contact lenses are for you. This is the most common type of lens and comes in the widest range of options.
Toric Lenses for Astigmatism
Astigmatism causes blurred vision due to an irregular eye shape, like a football instead of a basketball. Toric lenses are specially designed to correct this by holding their position on your eye. Modern toric lenses offer clear, stable vision and are just as comfortable as standard contacts.
Multifocal Contact Lenses
If you struggle to see things up close (presbyopia), multifocal lenses can help. Like progressive glasses, they have multiple prescription zones for clear vision at all distances—near, far, and in-between. This lets you read a text and see across the room without needing reading glasses.
Contact Lens Materials and Comfort
The material your lens is made of is key to all-day comfort. Modern lenses use advanced materials that let your eyes breathe.
Silicone Hydrogel Lenses
Silicone hydrogel is the gold standard for lens materials because it lets more oxygen reach your eye. This keeps your eyes healthier and feeling less dry, especially if you wear your contacts for long hours.
Key benefits include:
- Healthier Eyes: Superior oxygen flow reduces the risk of irritation.
- Lasting Comfort: Helps prevent dryness during long days or with screen use.
Water Gradient Technology
The newest innovation is water gradient technology, found in lenses like DAILIES TOTAL1®. These lenses have a soft surface cushion of water that is nearly 100% water at the outermost surface. This makes the lens feel exceptionally smooth and comfortable, almost like you're wearing nothing at all.
Choosing Contact Lenses for Your Lifestyle
The best lens for you also depends on your daily activities. Consider what you do each day when making your choice.
For Active Lifestyles
If you play sports, daily disposables are a great choice. They offer clear peripheral vision without the worry of glasses fogging up or slipping. You can simply throw them away after a game or workout.
For Dry Eyes
If your eyes often feel dry or irritated, look for lenses with high moisture content. Daily disposables are often best, as you start with a fresh, hydrated lens every morning.
For Extended Screen Time
Long hours in front of a computer can cause digital eye strain. Lenses designed for high oxygen flow and moisture retention can help keep your eyes comfortable.
Popular Contact Lens Brands at FYidoctors
We carry all the leading brands to ensure you find the perfect match for your eyes and lifestyle.
Alcon
- DAILIES TOTAL1®: Premium daily lens with water gradient technology for exceptional comfort.
- Precision1®: A great-value daily disposable that provides lasting visual performance.
- Air Optix® & Total30®: Monthly lenses known for high breathability and comfort.
Johnson & Johnson (ACUVUE®)
- ACUVUE® Oasys: A top-selling brand available in daily and bi-weekly options.
- ACUVUE® Oasys MAX: The newest daily lens with a blue light filter and enhanced moisture.
- ACUVUE® Theravision®: The first and only lens that also delivers an antihistamine to relieve itchy allergy eyes.
CooperVision
- Biofinity®: A popular monthly lens with a naturally breathable and moist material.
- MyDay®: A premium daily disposable that provides a great balance of comfort and breathability.
Bausch + Lomb
- Ultra®: A monthly lens designed to retain moisture for a full 16 hours of wear.
- Biotrue® ONEday: A daily lens inspired by the biology of your eye for natural comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know which contacts are best for me?
The best contacts depend on your prescription and lifestyle, which your optometrist determines during an eye exam and contact lens fitting.
What is the difference between daily and monthly contact lenses?
Daily lenses are worn once and then thrown away, while monthly lenses are worn for up to 30 days with nightly cleaning.
Do I need a prescription to buy contact lenses?
Yes, contact lenses are medical devices and require a valid prescription from an eye doctor to ensure a safe fit and correct vision.
Can I wear contact lenses if I have astigmatism?
Yes, special lenses called toric contact lenses are designed to correct the blurry vision caused by astigmatism.
How often should I replace my contact lenses?
You must replace your lenses according to their prescribed schedule—daily, bi-weekly, or monthly—to avoid eye health risks.
What's the difference between toric and multifocal contact lenses?
Toric lenses correct for astigmatism, while multifocal lenses correct for presbyopia (the need for reading glasses).
Ready to find your perfect contact lenses? Book an appointment at any of our 300+ FYidoctors locations across Canada for a comprehensive eye exam and contact lens fitting. Our experienced optometrists will help you choose the best contact lenses for your vision needs and lifestyle.
