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Prescription vs Non-Prescription Contact Lenses: Which Is Right for You?
Introduction
Contact lens selection is no easy feat, as there are several different contact lenses available and it’s difficult for consumers to know which is best for them. In a few instances, the contact lenses are used for medical purposes that include the ability to improve vision. Others have adorned them as cosmetics.
This article, Understanding Prescription vs Non-Prescription Contact Lenses: Which Is Right for You? is very helpful. Prescriptive lenses are produced to improve vision problems such as the blurring of the eyesight, while non-prescriptive lenses are used mostly cosmetically, such as colored contact lenses.
Before buying any contact lens, it is essential to know how this lens functions, who should wear it, and which one will be more safe to wear for eyes.
What is a Contact Lens?
Coloured contact lenses can be available in a variety of colors and will alter and/or enhance the natural eye color. These can be utilized every day for cosmetics, special occasions, fashion, photography and cosplay.
Coloured contact lenses, if obtained from a reliable source and fitted correctly are safe to wear. But, it can cause discomfort, irritation and infection of the eyes if the lens is not good or fit.
There are many different uses of contact lenses. Most people require them for vision correction because of various vision conditions, but there are other people who wear contacts just to have a better look. For example, colored contacts are very common amongst users who simply wish to change or alter their eye color.
What Are Prescription Contact Lenses?
Prescription contact lenses refer to special lenses that are used to help a person address his/her vision issues. These lenses differ from the cosmetic ones since they are prescribed for certain power according to one’s eye prescription. It means that such lenses help people see better and enhance their visual perception, especially in case a person suffers from some conditions such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, or presbyopia.
When using prescription contact lenses, you should go through an examination first and learn about the proper power of lenses as well as their sizes. In this way, you will ensure that everything fits correctly and comfortably since each person has different eyes.
These lenses are used to replace the glasses and help to adjust the light into the eye in a special manner. For most of the people, they bring freedom in performing various daily activities.
Who should get prescription contact lenses?
Prescription contact lenses are generally prescribed for those with some vision issues and want to see without the use of glasses. In this case, such lenses should be specially created according to the individual’s prescriptions.
Myopia (Nearsightedness)
If a person has myopia (nearsightedness), he or she can clearly see close objects but will experience some problems in viewing far objects because in this case, light focuses before the retina.
Prescription contact lenses will resolve this problem as they will modify the way how the light will enter your eyes, thus providing you with clear vision while looking at distant objects.
Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
If this is the type of vision disorder that a person suffers from then he/she will have problems seeing objects that are close to them.Person with hyperopia or farsightedness will struggle to read something, working on computers and seeing near objects.
Prescription contact lenses will enable such patients to focus on the nearby objects as they will direct the light properly into the eye and on the retina.
Astigmatism
Those having astigmatism will have blurred or distorted vision both when viewing distant objects and close objects. The cause is because the cornea and/or the lens of the eye is irregularly shaped.
Toric contact lenses or special prescription lenses will help individuals with astigmatism see better.
Presbyopia
Presbyopia is a normal condition common in the elderly that starts at the age of 40. It is a vision disorder which makes it hard to see things that are close up, such as a book, a smartphone, etc.
For such people, during the day, they will be able to see both near and far clearly with multifocal contact lenses.
Benefits of Prescription Contact Lenses
Contact lenses are more than just a correction for vision problems. They are meant to make it more comfortable to wear, facilitate daily tasks and correct the vision of the eye as per the condition.
Clear Vision
The most significant benefit of the use of prescription contact lenses is clear and sharp vision. They are manufactured based on your eye prescription, so they can help correct common issues with vision, and give you more accurate visual clarity.
Natural Appearance
Contact lenses are very transparent because they lie on the eye. This offers a natural look without changing the look of the person—this is not possible with glasses.
More suitable for an active lifestyle
Prescription contact lenses can be an option for individuals who are fond of sports, fitness or outdoor activities. They do not fog or slip while on the move, and do not come off like glasses.
Employment options for people with different vision problems
There are many types of vision prescriptions for which prescription contact lenses can be used, such as myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia. A wide range of lenses are available and most people will be able to find one that works for them and their needs.
What are Non-Prescription Contact Lenses?
Non-prescription contact lenses (also called plano lenses) are those which don’t correct your vision. They are not optical and will not correct nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism, unlike prescription lenses.
These lenses are primarily for cosmetic use, to alter or enhance the look of the eyes. They are available in a variety of colors, patterns and special designs, and are much favored by those who prefer to have a different style without requiring vision correction.
Some common nonprescription contact lens applications are:
Fashion: Alter the color of their eyes, or design their eyes in a special way.
Special Events: Wedding, party, cosplay and themed events.
Photography & Content Creation: Improve your image for photoshoots, videos and social media.
Although non-prescription contact lenses cannot correct vision, they should be fitted correctly and should be treated in the same way as traditional contact lenses, to minimise the likelihood of eye irritation or infection.
Prescription and non-prescription contact lenses have some differences
Prescription and non-prescription contact lenses may look alike, but they have different purposes. Prescription lenses correct vision, while non-prescription (plano) lenses are used for cosmetic purposes only.
| Feature | Prescription Contact Lenses | Non-Prescription Contact Lenses |
| Purpose | Correct vision problems | Change appearance |
| Power | Available | No power |
| Eye Exam | Required | Recommended |
| Users | People with vision problems | Cosmetic users |
Safety of Coloured Contact Lenses
Coloured contact lenses can be available in a variety of colors and will alter and/or enhance the natural eye color. These can be utilized every day for cosmetics, special occasions, fashion, photography and cosplay.
Coloured contact lenses, if obtained from a reliable source and fitted correctly are safe to wear. But, it can cause discomfort, irritation and infection of the eyes if the lens is not good or fit.
Always follow lens care instructions, clean lenses on a regular basis as directed, and don’t share glasses. Even non-prescription coloured lenses should fit your eyes properly for safe and comfortable wear.
What to Look for in a Contact Lens?
Depending on whether you are looking for corrective lenses or just to improve your appearance, you will want the correct contact lenses.
If you select Prescription Lenses:
- Your vision can’t be corrected.
- You wish to have something that is an alternative to glasses.
If you don’t need prescription lenses for the treatment, select Non-Prescription Lenses:
- You just want to alter your eye color.
- You’re looking for lenses for cosmetic or fashion use.
Common problems that people who wear contact lenses should avoid
To ensure your eyes remain healthy and the contact lenses safe to wear, steer clear of these common mistakes:
- Buying cheap or low-quality contact lenses.
- The sharing of contact lenses or contact lens holders.
- Failure to clean and maintain lenses properly.
- Wearout of contact lenses.
- Extended wear contact lenses.
Conclusion
Prescription contact lenses correct the clarity of vision and non-prescription contact lenses are used for cosmetic purposes. Both are sensitive to care and hygiene and can lead to eye complications if not properly cared for. Always use high quality lenses from reputable companies and observe safety precautions to ensure good eye protection.
