If you wear contacts, you know that there are two main types of lenses: hard and soft. But what are the differences between the two, and which is the better option? Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of hard contacts vs soft lenses to help you make a decision.
Which lenses are better? Hard or soft?
Hard Contact Lenses
Hard contact lenses are made of rigid, gas-permeable material. They’re less common than soft lenses, but they offer some advantages over their softer counterparts. For instance, hard lenses are more durable and less likely to tear. They also allow more oxygen to reach your eyes, which is important for maintaining healthy corneas. And because they don’t absorb as much moisture as soft lenses, they can be a good choice for people with dry eyes.
On the downside, hard contact lenses can be uncomfortable at first because they’re not as pliable as soft lenses. They can also be difficult to put in and take out. In addition, it can take longer to adjust to hard contact lenses than it does to adjust to soft lenses.
Soft Contact Lenses
Soft contact lenses are made of a gel-like material that contains water. They’re by far the most popular type of lens, perhaps because they’re usually more comfortable than hard lenses. They also conform to the shape of your eye better than hard lenses, making them less noticeable. And they allow more oxygen to reach your cornea than hard lenses do.
There are some disadvantages to wearing soft contact lenses, however. For one thing, they can be easily damaged; if you aren’t careful when putting them in or taking them out, you could tear them. Also, because they absorb more moisture than hard lenses do, they can dry out your eyes if you wear them for too long. In addition, soft contact lenses are more likely than hard contact lenses to harbor bacteria that could lead to an eye infection.
So, which type of contact lens is right for you? The best way to find out is to talk to your eye doctor. He or she can help you weigh the pros and cons of hard and soft contact lenses and make a recommendation based on your individual needs.
Remember, no matter which type of lens you choose, it’s important to practice good hygiene habits. Be sure to wash your hands and clean your lenses with disinfectant regularly, following the manufacturer’s directions. By taking these precautions, you can help keep your eyes healthy and avoid potential problems.
In the end
There’s no clear winner when it comes to hard vs. soft contact lenses contact—it really depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you have astigmatism or dry eyes, for instance, you might find that hard contact lenses work better for you. Or, if you want the most comfortable option possible, soft contacts may be the way to go. Ultimately, the best way to decide which type of lens is right for you is to talk to your optometrist or ophthalmologist about your options.