Decided to make the switch from glasses to contact lenses? Welcome to the world of contacts! There are many different types of contact lenses available in Singapore, and you have a wealth of options to choose from. The two most common types that you’ve most likely heard of are daily and monthly contact lenses. But which is better, and which should you choose? Read on to learn more about daily and monthly contact lenses and the things to consider in selecting the right lenses for you!
Daily Contact Lenses
As its name suggests, daily contact lenses are meant for one-time use on a daily basis. You’d start the day by opening a new pack, wear it all day long, and then discard them at night. That’s the best part — no clean-up or storage is needed as the disposable lenses come in individually pre-packaged blister packs.
Daily contact lenses are typically thinner and contain a higher water content to reduce dryness. At Clearlab, our daily lenses are made using special anti-dry technology and Hioxifilcon A formulation to ensure your eyes stay moist and comfortable throughout the day. Find out more about our daily contact lenses here.
Monthly Contact Lenses
Monthly contact lenses are designed to be worn every day for up to a month before they need to be replaced. They are generally thicker than daily lenses, making them more durable and longer-lasting. Of course, reusing the same lenses every day comes the somewhat troublesome task of cleaning them. Regular cleaning upon removal (usually before bed) using a proper contact lens solution is crucial to disinfect the lenses. You can find many types of monthly contact lenses in Singapore, including ones with UV protection or lower water content for arid climates.
Essential Things to Consider
1. Your Lifestyle
Are you constantly on the go? With things to do and places to be? If you have a busy and active lifestyle, then daily lenses are your best bet. They are fuss-free and easy to use, especially for people who often switch between glasses and contact lenses. Daily lenses are also ideal for those who are regularly involved in sports or activities, where your eyes are exposed to sweat, dirt, and water. You can simply throw away your lenses after a tiring day without having to deal with cleaning them! However, if your lifestyle is generally more routine — for example, if you spend most of your time working at your desk in the office or at home — then monthly lenses might be more suitable for you.
2. Your Budget
While daily contact lenses cost more upfront on paper, if you only plan to use them now and then, they are a much more wallet-friendly option. So don’t let their higher cost price put you off right away! As for monthly lenses, they are typically cheaper upfront and are more cost-effective in the long run, especially for full-time wearers. However, remember that you will also need to factor in the recurring costs of lens solutions and storage containers, so consider which will best meet your current budget.
3. Your Prescription
Daily and monthly lenses don’t just differ in durability and longevity. In fact, your lens options might depend on your prescription. For instance, if you need lenses for astigmatism and higher magnifications or multifocal lenses, those may only be available as monthly contact lenses. Unsure of your prescription? Why not register for a free eye exam at Clearlab to find out!
4. Your Health & Hygiene
Extended use of contact lenses results in a build-up of proteins, lipids, and calcium from tears in your eyes. Since daily lenses are disposable, they are the more hygienic option as there will be far less accumulated build-up. Daily contact lenses are also better for those with dry eyes or allergies as they are thinner, more comfortable, and offer a lower risk of infection. Meanwhile, as we all know, monthly contact lenses require constant cleaning as they are more prone to build-up. Hence, we encourage you to consider your hygiene habits and health conditions, if any, in making your choice.
Daily and monthly lenses have their own pros and cons each, so the decision is ultimately based on your preferences too. Visit Clearlab to learn more about our high-quality daily and monthly contact lenses and order online today!