Let’s talk first about soft/disposable contacts, manufactured and marketed for one week, two weeks, one month or daily/one-time use.
Should you follow those guidelines? Yes — but here’s the gold rule:
Soft/disposable lens should always be replaced BEFORE you ever experience discomfort, irritation or red eyes.
For example, if a two-week lens starts to irritate after 10 days — you likely need to replace them with weekly or daily disposables.
As for Gas Permeable Lenses: I generally recommend replacing gas permeable lenses at two-year intervals, or sooner if the lenses are scratched or damaged.
Gas permeable lenses can be polished to remove deposits and light scratches, and that can extend their lifespan.
Whichever lenses you wear, know that different factors can affect lifespan, including:
– One’s tear film: wet, dry, or oily? Protein?
– Cleaning the lens — more meticulous care will extend the life of lenses.
– Frequently of use: Material ages only when exposed to tears film and environment.
– External factors, humidity, allergies or medications
Don’t hesitate to bring your lenses in — we’ll check them out, clean them and give you honest advice about their condition.
