Importance of Contact Lens Replacement Schedule

As all contact lenses are medical devices, it is extremely important to follow all wearing practices as prescribed by your optometrist. Failure to adhere to the recommended replacement schedule of lenses could result in bacterial infections, pain and irritation, and permanent vision loss. Contact lenses fall into one of four wear type categories:

Daily Disposables

Daily disposable contacts are exactly what they say. A fresh pair is used every day. These lenses are thinner and lighter than weekly lenses, making them healthier for your eyes. Daily disposables also eliminate the need for contact cases and lens solution.

Popular Daily Disposable Lenses:

• 1-Day ACUVUE MOIST
• Biotrue ONEday
• DAILIES AquaComfort Plus

Weekly Disposables

Contacts that are labeled as weekly disposables have a one to two week wear period. They need to be removed every night and stored in fresh solution each night. The eye doctor will usually specify if you should replace them every week or every two weeks.

Popular Weekly Disposable Lenses:

• ACUVUE OASYS 2-Week
• Avaira Vitality

Monthly Disposables

These lenses have a 30 day replacement schedule. They will also need to be removed and stored in fresh solution every night.

Popular Monthly Disposable Lenses:

• AIR OPTIX plus HYDRAGLYDE
• Biofinity
• Bausch + Lomb ULTRA

RGP Lenses

Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, also known as hard contacts, are the original contact lens. They are more resistant to lens deposits and don't need to be replaced as frequently as soft lenses. RGP lenses can last a year or longer before they need to be replaced.