Frequently asked questions about contact lenses
Find the answers to questions people frequently ask about contact lenses regarding cost, age, maintenance, eye health conditions, and more.
How old do I have to be to wear contact lenses?
There is no age limit to start wearing contact lenses; it is more about being able to take on the responsibility of looking after them. Most people can start wearing contact lenses in their early teens, and some at a younger age. Speaking to your parents and consulting an eye care professional can help you figure out whether contact lenses are right for you.
Are contact lenses comfortable to wear?
Correctly fitted contact lenses should feel comfortable, and most modern soft lenses are made from breathable, moisture-rich materials. Provided that you adhere to the replacement schedule and cleaning instructions that your eye care professional provides, and go back for regular check-ups, contact lenses are a healthy vision correction option.
Can contact lenses get lost behind my eye?
No, they cannot. A membrane called the conjunctiva covers the white of your eye and connects to the inside of your eyelid, so there’s no chance that a contact lens can go behind your eye.
Can contact lenses get stuck to my eye?
Contact lenses cannot get stuck to your eye if you follow your eye care professional’s advice about wear, care, and removal. Mastering taking off your lenses just takes a little patience and practice. Remember to remove your lenses before sleep, and if they feel dry, try some rewetting drops before removing them.
Why do I need a prescription for contact lenses?
Contact lenses are legally considered a medical device, which is why you need a prescription. Only a qualified eye care professional can properly measure your vision correction needs and determine which size and type of contact lens is best for you. Also, safely wearing contact lenses requires periodic monitoring of your eye health and vision needs. Typically, an annual examination is recommended for renewal of your contact lens prescription, as your vision and eye health may change over time.
How do I get a contact lens prescription?
Start by scheduling an appointment for contact lenses with an eye care professional. Your first contact lens fitting will take a little longer than a regular eye examination, so make sure you specify that you are interested in contact lenses. You will often need to go back about a week later for a second appointment to confirm your prescription, so ask about scheduling any follow-up appointments when you first call in.
Want to find an optician near you who carries ACUVUE®? Find one near you at https://www.acuvue.com/el-gr/get-contacts/find-an-eye-doctor/.
Is it difficult to take care of contact lenses?
Advances in technology have made contact lenses even more convenient than before. Caring for them is easy with multipurpose lens solutions that make cleaning, disinfecting, and storing your reusable contact lenses simple and effective. For the most convenient way to wear contacts, consider daily disposable contact lenses (such as ACUVUE® OASYS MAX 1-Day).
Your eye care professional will give you advice about how to use and care for your contact lenses.
Can I continue using my glasses if I start wearing contact lenses?
Of course, a lot of people alternate between glasses and contact lenses depending on what they’re doing or how they feel. You will still need to keep a pair of glasses as backup, but most people can wear contact lenses every day.
Can I wear contact lenses while participating in sports or recreational activities?
Contact lenses are a great option for sports and an active lifestyle. They offer crisp, clear, uninhibited vision—and you won’t have to worry about them fogging up, falling off, or breaking during a game like glasses can. Unfortunately, this excludes watersports. Contact lenses should be removed when taking part in watersports.
