Contact lenses
Why Contacts?
Some of the everyday reasons people choose contact lenses, and what to know before you do.
Why contact lenses?
Glasses-free, when you want to be
A contact lens sits on your eye, so there is no frame around your view. People choose contact lenses for everyday life, for sport, for the look and for work. Here are some of the reasons, grouped by the part of life they belong to.
There are contact lenses for short-sightedness, long-sightedness and astigmatism, and multifocal contact lenses for near and far. Your optometrist will tell you whether they suit you. Read about the types of contact lens.
The reasons
Four parts of life where contact lenses fit in
Everyday life
- Contact lenses do not mist up in the cold, and rain does not collect on them as it does on glasses.
- There is no frame to slip down your nose, or to leave marks on your nose and ears, even when you perspire or the weather is hot and humid.
- You can wear the sunglasses of your choice.
- With daily lenses, you put in a fresh lens every day, and there is nothing to clean or store.
Sport and outdoors
- There is no frame to slip when you run or bend forward, and no lenses to mist up while you play.
- Ski goggles and cycling sunglasses sit on your face with no glasses frame beneath them.
- Spray and rain do not collect on a lens in front of your eyes, which is useful on the water or near the sea.
- Water and contact lenses do not mix. In the water, wear goggles, as our care guide explains.
Looks and comfort
- Soft lenses are soft and flexible, and a fitting includes a trial before you buy a box, so you can feel them first.
- In photographs, no frame, reflection or shadow sits between the camera and your eyes.
- Eye make-up shows, with no frame or lens in front of it. Put your lenses in before you apply make-up, and take them out before you remove it.
Work and hobbies
- A microscope, a camera or a pair of binoculars can be held right up to your eye, with no frame in the way.
- Protective goggles and masks sit on your face with no glasses frame beneath them.
Before you start
What to know first
First steps
An eye test and a fitting come first
A contact lens is a medical device. It starts with an eye test and a fitting, and lenses are supplied only on a current prescription. New wearers are taught how to put lenses in, take them out and look after them.
Glasses too
Keep a pair of glasses
Every contact lens wearer needs an up-to-date pair of glasses, for when their eyes need a rest from the lenses. Many people wear glasses during the week and contact lenses for sport and going out.
Next steps
Where to go from here
Already wear contact lenses? With a current prescription, you can order or re-order your lenses online, then collect them in store or have them delivered. The practice that holds your record checks your prescription and handles any medical aid claim. Shop contact lenses
Thinking about contact lenses?
Book an eye test and your optometrist will tell you which type suits you.
Book an eye test