The Pros and Cons of Silicone Hydrogel Contact Lenses
So, you’re thinking of getting contact lenses, but you’re not quite sure which kind to go for. Well, fear not my friends! I’m here to help guide you through the world of silicone hydrogel contact lenses.
Firstly, you may be wondering what exactly are silicone hydrogel contact lenses? Well, they’re a type of soft contact lens that are made from a special material that allows more oxygen to pass through to your eyes. This means they’re great for extended wear and are often prescribed for people with sensitive or dry eyes.
The Pros
So, why should you choose silicone hydrogel contact lenses? Here are some of the pros:
Extended Wear
Silicone hydrogel contact lenses are perfect if you’re looking for lenses that you can leave in for longer periods of time. They allow more oxygen to reach your eyes which means they’re comfortable to wear for up to 30 days at a time.
Great for Sensitive Eyes
If you’re someone who suffers from sensitive eyes, then silicone hydrogel contact lenses are a great option for you. The material that they’re made from is less likely to cause irritation or discomfort than other types of lenses.
A Wide Range of Prescriptions
Silicone hydrogel lenses are available for a wide range of prescriptions. This means that whatever your vision needs are, you should be able to find a lens that suits you.
The Cons
Whilst silicone hydrogel contact lenses have a lot of benefits, there are also some downsides that you should be aware of:
More Expensive
Compared to other types of contact lenses, silicone hydrogel lenses can be more expensive. This is because of the special material they’re made from.
Not Suitable for Everyone
Some people may not be able to wear silicone hydrogel contact lenses. This could be because of an allergy to the material, or because of a particular eye condition.
Less Oxygen Permeable
Whilst silicone hydrogel lenses are more oxygen permeable than other materials, they are still not as oxygen permeable as gas permeable lenses. This means that if you do wear them for extended periods of time, you may still experience some eye dryness or irritation.
The Verdict
In conclusion, silicone hydrogel contact lenses are a great option for many people. They’re comfortable, suitable for extended wear, and available in a wide range of prescriptions. However, they may not be suitable for everyone, and they are more expensive than other types of lenses.
So, if you’re thinking of trying silicone hydrogel contact lenses, make sure to speak to your optician first. They’ll be able to advise you on whether they’re the right choice for you.