Thanks to their subtle appearance and efficacy as medical devices, contact lenses are among the most popular optical products on the consumer market.
According to Statista, the global market worth for contacts in 2024 is estimated to be nearly $19.5 billion. The majority of this success is directly linked to the US, which houses the most active demographic of contact lens users. Currently, approximately 1 in 6 Americans say they use contact lenses regularly.
Despite this widespread use, surveys from the American Optometric Association (AOA) note that there is still a lot of misinformation surrounding contacts. Interestingly, even those who are contact lens users are not immune to believing common misconceptions that are actually dangerous. Misconceptions and poor handling of eye health can lead to devastating results. In 2023, for example, the use of a contaminated drug supposedly used to prevent the growth of abnormal blood vessels in the eye led to vision loss for dozens of Pakistani diabetics.
Battling misinformation is a crucial part of public health, especially for eye health. Here are a few of the most common misconceptions about contact lens use and the truth behind them:
Contact lenses don’t need prescriptions
Because contact lenses are now widely available, many mistakenly believe they’re much like over-the-counter products. In reality, though, because contact lenses sit right on the eye inside the body, they always require prescriptions. Retailer Target Optical, which also carries contact lenses from brands like Alcon and CooperVision, requires consumers to submit their prescription before making any purchases. This ensures that the lenses fit comfortably and safely on the eyes, regardless of whether or not they are used for vision correction. In some cases, retailers may even require that consumers retake eye exams for a more updated prescription. Retailers that don’t ask for prescriptions are, thus, not recommended since they clearly do not abide by medical advice.
Contact lenses are risk-free
Generally, contact lenses are very safe. However, much like anything, misuse can lead to harm. Specifically, contact lenses require very mindful sanitation practices. Sadly, many contact lens users think that these are more like suggestions rather than necessary protocols. For instance, there are an increasing number of reports of people developing eye issues after exposing their contacts to water. This usually happens either when people wear them to swim or shower or when they use plain water for rinsing. The problem is that water can contain bacteria. As such, the contacts act as a petri dish that allows the bacteria to multiply and enter the eyes. This makes use of the correct contact solutions, like those from Bausch + Lomb, along with proper handwashing, storing, and replacements, critical.
Contact lenses are all the same
Lastly, although they may offer the same benefits and look the same, contact lenses can be vastly different. This means that they may feel and perform very differently. Given that the eyes are very sensitive, this can significantly affect how well a pair works for you. At the very least, switching to a pair of contact lenses just because they seem similar to your old ones can result in ocular discomfort. However, in the worse-case scenarios, it can lead to more serious concerns that may even affect your eyesight. For instance, if you were to switch from your usual colored AirOptix lenses to ones from unregulated costume contact lens providers just because they have a similar color palette, you run the risk of exposing yourself to toxic tints. Alternatively, if you decide to try a new brand, even an FDA-regulated one, without an expert’s help, it may not suit your eyes or your specific prescription. This can result in worse vision or even loss, should you experience something like corneal abrasions.