Discover the Benefits of Silicone Hydrogel Contact Lenses

In the world of vision correction, silicone hydrogel (SiHy) lenses have revolutionized the way people experience comfort and clarity. Whether you’re new to contact lenses or considering an upgrade, understanding the benefits of silicone hydrogel lenses can help you make an informed decision.

Transparent contact lenses with a hint of rainbow reflection surrounded by water droplets against a light blue backdrop.

What are Silicone Hydrogel Lenses?

Silicone hydrogel lenses are a type of soft contact lens that combines silicone with hydrogel materials. This innovative blend allows these lenses to offer exceptional comfort, high oxygen permeability, and moisture retention compared to traditional hydrogel lenses.

Enhanced Oxygen Permeability

Silicone hydrogel lenses are renowned for their high oxygen permeability. This means that a greater amount of oxygen can reach the surface of your eyes, promoting healthier eyes and reducing the risk of complications such as corneal neovascularization. Improved oxygen flow also reduces the likelihood of dryness and discomfort associated with wearing contact lenses for extended periods.

Exceptional Comfort

The combination of silicone and hydrogel materials in these lenses results in a smoother surface and enhanced moisture retention. This translates to a comfortable wearing experience throughout the day, even in challenging environments like air-conditioned offices or dry climates. Many users report that silicone hydrogel lenses feel barely noticeable.

Contact lens balanced on fingertip, with open contact lens case and foil package in the background.

Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich

All Day Wear

Silicone hydrogel lenses are designed to be worn for extended periods. Their high oxygen permeability supports longer wear times without compromising eye health. This flexibility appeals to individuals with busy lifestyles and wear their contact lenses from morning until evening.

UV Protection

Some silicone hydrogel lenses are equipped with UV-blocking capabilities, providing an additional layer of protection against harmful UV rays. While these lenses are not a substitute for sunglasses, they can help reduce UV exposure during outdoor activities, contributing to long-term eye health.

Which Manufacturers Offer Silicone Hydrogel?

Numerous reputable manufacturers provide silicone hydrogel contact lenses, renowned for their superior quality and cutting-edge advancements in vision correction. CooperVision, for example, manufactures a range of silicone hydrogel options including Clariti 1-Day, MyDay, Avaira Vitality, and Biofinity lenses. Similarly, Bausch + Lomb offers silicone hydrogel lenses such as Ultra, PureVision, and PureVision 2 HD. These brands are trusted for delivering lenses that prioritize comfort and vision.

Bausch + Lomb ULTRA contact lenses, CooperVision Biofinity, MyDay, and Bausch + Lomb Biotrue packaging.

Silicone hydrogel lenses represent a significant advancement in contact lens technology, combining comfort, oxygen permeability, and convenience. Ready to upgrade your contact lens experience? Speak with your eye care provider today to learn more about the benefits of silicone hydrogel lenses and find out if they’re the right choice for you.

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Photograph of Ivan Yong

Ivan Yong

Dr. Ivan Yong is an optometrist with over a decade of experience in the optical industry. He earned his doctorate from the Southern California College of Optometry and has practiced in multiple settings, including private practice, community health, and ophthalmology. Dr. Yong aims to expand access to affordable eyewear and improve eye health worldwide.