null

Best Contacts for Dry Eyes: Which Brand Comes Out on Top

13th Dec 2023

The best contacts for dry eyes

If you’ve been wearing contact lenses for a while now, you've probably had your fair share of struggles with dry eyes. You’re not alone. Surprisingly, about 20% of kiwis also deal with some dry eye conditions. However, finding the right contact lens to keep your eyes comfortable and help with dryness is a real hassle.

The good news is that advancements in contact lens technology resulted in various alternatives to combat dryness while improving overall eye comfort.

So, what are the best contacts for dry eyes?

Let’s dive in and find out which brand really lives up to the hype and the key features that make them suitable for contact lens wearers suffering from dry eyes.

What causes dry eyes?

Dry eye syndrome arises from inadequate tear production or poor tear quality. This leads to symptoms like eye irritation, redness, and a gritty feeling in the eyes. Other causes can include eye disease, hormone changes, medications and allergies.

What types of contact lenses are available?

  • Soft contact lenses -People with chronic dry eyes might find soft contacts more comfortable. These lenses are crafted from materials that not only retain water but also allow oxygen to flow through, helping the eyes stay refreshed and breathe easier.
  • Hard contact lenses (Rigid Gas-Permeable). Often referred to as "hard" lenses, Rigid Gas-Permeable (RGP) lenses are a robust choice for clear vision, especially if you have astigmatism or uneven corneas.
  • Silicone Hydrogel contact lenses - This a revolutionary material in the world of contact lenses as it allows more oxygen to reach the cornea compared to traditional soft lenses and helps reduce dryness and discomfort. Although they might be pricier than other types, their effectiveness for dry eyes makes them a top recommendation.
  • Daily disposable contact lenses - Favourite among contact lens wearers, especially those with dry eyes. Their single-use nature dramatically reduces the likelihood of deposit accumulation, which can cause eye irritation.

Best contact lenses for dry eyes (with pros & cons)

  • Best contact lenses #1: Dailies Total 1 - One of the best features of these daily lenses is high water gradient technology, which means the outer surface of the lens is completely composed of water. Additionally, this feature releases more wetting agents when it detects dryness on the ocular surface, providing maximum comfort and reducing dryness.

Pros: Superior lens surface moisture stability, supports excellent comfort; most users say they don’t feel the contacts at all

Cons: Pricey, sometimes tricky to get in and out of the eye

  • Best contact lenses #2: Precision 1 - Made with a unique moisture-lock technology that keeps moisture in the eyes throughout the day. Precision 1 contact lenses offer a balance of comfort and breathability, essential for maintaining eye health and specifically for dry eyes.

Pros: Moisture-lock technology that keeps your eyes hydrated, good for daily wear, and slightly cheaper than Dailies Total 1.

Cons: Limited options for people who have astigmatism or multifocal needs.

  • Best contact lenses #3: Acuvue Oasys 1 Day lenses - The Hydraluxe Technology in the daily contact lenses features a tear-like molecule design, which adds a layer of moisture to your eyes and ensures you feel hydrated all day long.

Pros: Outstanding breathability, includes UV protection, and is preferable for people who are always on the move.

Cons: They could be too expensive for regular use, and some users might find them less breathable than other daily disposables.

  • Best contact lenses #4 - Bausch and Lomb Ultra One Day Lens - Bausch + Lomb lenses feature a next-generation material infused with different moisturiser proteins and electrolytes to help stabilise your tear film and effectively reduce dry eye symptoms.

Pros: Infused with advanced material for superior moisture retention and suitable for extended wear.

Cons: Priced higher than many standard lenses, some users report a steeper learning curve for proper insertion and removal.

Note: The recommendations are based on collective insights and perspectives of different eye care experts.

Tips on how to manage your dry eyes

  • Opt for daily disposables to mitigate the build-up of irritants and help alleviate dryness.
  • Rub the lenses when cleaning or disinfecting your contact lenses to remove more deposits than rinsing alone.
  • Experiment with cleaning solutions; other preservative-free types may suit sensitive eyes better.
  • If you live in places with dry air or windy conditions, use rewetting drops to help reduce eye dryness.
  • Choose a hypoallergenic makeup to reduce the risk of irritation.

Conclusion

While several brands offer products to alleviate dry eye symptoms, the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences. We highly recommend you consult an eye care professional to know which brand and type of lens will work best for you.

References: