Glasses Vs. Contact Lenses: Which Are Right for You?

Eyeglasses and contact lenses are popular vision correction devices. They correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

 

When choosing between glasses and contacts, you need to consider different factors. They include your lifestyle, eye condition, convenience, and comfort level. When choosing between glasses and contact lenses, here is what you should consider. 

 

When to Choose Eyeglasses 

If you are prone to eye infections, glasses are the better option. They require less care or maintenance than contacts. Eyeglasses are easier to keep clean and provide extra protection for the eyes. 

They are ideal for young children and people who are uncomfortable wearing contacts. People with dry eye syndrome and other eye health issues are more comfortable with eyeglasses. 

When to Choose Contact Lenses

If you live an active lifestyle or play sports, contacts may be better for you. It is easier to engage in physical activities when you do not have to worry about eyeglasses falling off your face. Unlike glasses, contact lenses do not block or interfere with the field of vision. 

Contacts are the preferred option for people who do not want to alter their appearance. They are more convenient because you do not have to think about them all day after you wear them. 

Benefits of Eyeglasses 

Eyeglasses have been in use for centuries to correct vision. They offer several benefits, including:

 

• Reduced risk of infection

• Eyeglasses are usually less costly than contacts

• Simple cleaning process

• Can provide some UV protection

• Stylish frames can make a fashion statement

• They can provide glare and blue light protection
  
   

On the downside, glasses are prone to fogging and can be uncomfortable due to movement. They can break or become knocked off the face, impacting vision, and they do not improve peripheral vision.

 

Benefits of Contact Lenses

Contact lenses rest directly on the eyes, so it is not easy for them to fall off. Other benefits include:

 

• They do not affect your appearance

• The lenses do not fog, making them comfortable in any weather

• Contacts do not move about on the face

• They are convenient and easy to wear during exercise or physical activity
  
   

The disadvantages of contacts include their higher cost, the increased risk of infection, and the high maintenance. Contact lenses are more difficult to wear and take out. Proper cleaning and disinfecting are vital to ensure effectiveness. 

 

Glasses Vs. Contact Lenses 

When choosing between eyeglasses or contacts, you should determine how and when you wear the lenses. Some issues to consider are your vision requirements, lifestyle, comfort, and sense of style. Consider the initial and long-term costs. Getting used to contacts may take some time for those who have worn glasses for years. Some people may choose to switch between glasses and contacts.

 

Whether you choose glasses or contacts, make sure to update your prescription. If you choose contacts, investing in a pair of glasses for backup is a good idea. 

For more on choosing between glasses and contact lenses or to schedule an exam to get started on the process, call Diamond Bar Optometric Center at our Diamond Bar, California office. You can reach us at (909) 861-4999 today.