There used to be an old saying that suggested “glasses made people look smarter.” Of course, that’s in the eye of the beholder. But when contact lenses became extremely popular, eyeglass wearers were quick to try out the new trend. Their demand compared to glasses was undeniably greater. Contacts lenses were much more stylish and the color varieties intrigued many. Glasses were considered too bulky and, at times, too expensive. When thinner wires and slimmer frames were introduced, glasses still made eyeglass wearers very aware of their presence. It seemed as if glasses could not stand a chance next to contact lenses.
Through countless adjustments, eyeglass experts improved the overall appearance of glasses. Bendable frames, scratch-resistant lenses and detachable sunglasses were all added to glasses to enhance their outer appearance. However, eyeglass wearers were not totally satisfied. Even with the breakthrough of several designers brandishing their names on frames, glasses still seem to lag behind its competition.
Now it seems the competition between glasses and contact lenses are leveling out. Contact wearers are divulging their problems with contacts. The initial beliefs that contact lenses were more chic, trendy, compact and comfortable are not completely enough to keep up their lead over glasses. Initially, contact lenses were not as safe as they are now, and they had to be cleansed very often. Today, there are brands that require less cleansing and are much safer.
Their trendiness and ease, however, does not outweigh the durability and convenience of glasses. The durability of contacts is little to none. They are flimsy and can tear without difficulty. They can also get lost very easily. Glasses, on the other hand, are made for wear and tear. Though glasses can be broken and lost, the risk is not as great. For those who have odd shaped eyes, special contact lenses have to be ordered and could be quite expensive. Glasses are made to fit any shaped eye.
Contact lenses are also not intended for use for long periods of time. The eyes will sometimes tire and dry out and then special drops will have to be placed in the eyes. Rubbing the eyes will only cause the contact lenses to fall out and possibly get lost. Windy weather will also affect those who wear contact lenses. You run the risk of dirt, dust or debris flying into your eyes and having to immediately remove the contact lenses to clean them. For first time users, contact lenses are difficult to put in and take out. Eyeglass wearers are not hindered with these problems.
Contact lenses, also, do not last for long periods of time. They come in daily, weekly, monthly an extended wear brands. They have an expiration date that recommends the lenses only be worn for a maximum of four to six months. This is not the case, obviously, for glasses. They can last for a year if they are handled properly. Though they may last longer, an optometrist would advise an eye exam very year.
Contacts are not for everyone. Glasses are the only option out there for children and those who are incapable of inserting contacts. Although corrective eye surgery is available, optometrists do not recommend this service for children nor the elderly. Glasses come in a variety of sizes to fit the young and old.
Glasses have even catered to the need of those who prefer sunglasses. Many eyeglass specialists are turning trendy sunglasses into prescription glasses. Those who require single-vision lenses or even progressive lenses are already trying out the advances. Special lens wearers may have to order custom-made sunglasses, but the option is still there.
The option is even there for those who would like to change their eye color and continue wearing their glasses. Contacts are, for now, the only way to change the color of the iris in the eye. But, they are available as a nonprescription. Prescription glasses can still be worn. With this approach, you can have the best of both worlds.
By Jaime Cannon