Contact lenses are a convenient and modern alternative for those who want to correct their vision without relying on glasses. However, many people may be concerned about potential side effects from using contact lenses, especially beginners. This article will help you understand possible side effects, how to avoid them, and recommend suitable contact lenses for beginners.

Possible Side Effects of Wearing Contact Lenses

Generally, wearing contact lenses is safe, but there are instances where side effects may occur, especially if proper care is not taken. Here are some common side effects:

• Dry Eyes: Wearing contact lenses for too long or being in a dry environment, such as an air-conditioned room, may cause your eyes to lose moisture, leading to dryness and irritation.
• Red Eyes: Irritation and redness can occur if the lenses are dirty or if protein buildup accumulates on the lens.
• Eye Infections: Not maintaining proper hygiene with contact lenses can lead to corneal infections, such as bacterial or fungal infections, causing inflammation.
• Vision Problems: Sometimes, contact lenses may not fit the eyes properly, leading to blurred vision or unclear sight.
• Allergic Reactions to Lenses or Cleaning Solutions: Those who are allergic to contact lenses or chemicals in the cleaning solution may experience itching and discomfort.

How to Avoid Side Effects from Wearing Contact Lenses

1. Start with Daily Contact Lenses: Daily disposable lenses are an excellent choice for beginners because they don’t require cleaning and are discarded after each use. This minimizes the risk of protein buildup and germs.
2. Choose Comfortable Contact Lenses: If you suffer from dry eyes or have sensitive eyes, opt for lenses made from silicone hydrogel, which provide moisture and allow for better oxygen flow, reducing irritation.
3. Avoid Wearing Lenses for Extended Periods: Remove your contact lenses if you feel discomfort, and make sure to give your eyes a break when necessary.
4. Consult an Expert Before Using Contact Lenses: Have a professional recommend the right contact lenses for your eyes, along with instructions for proper use.
5. Do Not Wear Contact Lenses While Sleeping: Sleeping with contact lenses can cause dry eyes and increase the risk of infections, so always remove them before bed.

Recommended Comfortable Daily Contact Lenses

For beginners, daily disposable contact lenses are the most suitable option because they are hassle-free and don't require the same cleaning and care as longer-term lenses. The lenses from Ta-To.com offer a variety of options that are comfortable and safe for beginners. People with dry eyes can also easily find lenses that fit their lifestyle.

1-Day Acuvue Moist

• Price: 975 THB (from 1,265 THB)
• Lenses per Box: 30 lenses
• Customer Rating: 5/5 from 83 reviews

Pros:

• Comes with LACREON® technology that helps retain moisture on the lens surface, keeping your eyes hydrated and comfortable throughout the day.
• Ideal for people with dry or sensitive eyes, as the lens provides excellent moisture retention.
• Offers UV protection to shield your eyes from harmful sunlight.

Cons:

• May be more expensive than standard contact lenses due to its added moisture technology and UV protection.
• If used daily, it may be necessary to consider the long-term cost since it's a daily disposable lens.

SofLens Daily

• Price: 775 THB (from 850 THB)
• Lenses per Box: 30 lenses
• Customer Rating: 5/5 from 65 reviews

Pros:

• Affordable daily disposable lenses, ideal for those seeking convenience without breaking the bank.
• Designed with Aspheric Optics to enhance visual sharpness, especially in low-light conditions.
• Easy to use and requires no long-term maintenance.

Cons:

• Does not have the same moisture-retention technology as Acuvue Moist, so it may not be ideal for people with dry eyes.
• Lacks UV protection, making it unsuitable for outdoor use in strong sunlight.

Acuvue Oasys 1-Day with HydraLuxe Technology

• Price: 1,022 THB (from 1,750 THB)
• Lenses per Box: 30 lenses
• Customer Rating: 4.8/5 from 43 reviews

Pros:

• Equipped with HydraLuxe™ technology, which enhances comfort and maintains moisture, making it perfect for those who wear lenses for long hours or work in front of a computer frequently.
• Provides UV protection to safeguard the eyes from harmful rays.
• Suitable for people with dry eyes or those in environments that cause dryness, such as air-conditioned rooms.

Cons:

• More expensive than other lenses, which may not be suitable for those looking to save in the long term.
• Customer reviews are slightly lower compared to other options, despite its superior features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is it safe to wear contact lenses every day?

If you choose suitable daily lenses and wear them properly, it is safe to wear them daily. However, you should give your eyes a break and avoid wearing them while sleeping.

Do daily disposable contact lenses need cleaning?

No, daily disposable lenses do not need cleaning since they are thrown away after each use, minimizing the risk of germ buildup.

Do contact lenses cause dry eyes? 

Some people may experience dry eyes, especially in dry environments, but lenses with high moisture retention can help reduce this issue.

Is it dangerous to sleep with contact lenses in? 
Sleeping with contact lenses can increase the risk of infection and dry eyes. It is recommended to remove your lenses before sleeping.

How often should I change contact lenses?

Daily disposable lenses should be discarded after one use, while monthly lenses should be changed every 30 days or as recommended by your eye care professional.

Do contact lenses change the appearance of your eyes? 

Regular contact lenses do not change the appearance of your eyes, but colored or fashion lenses can make your eyes look different based on the color and design you choose.