Should I get glasses or contacts?

Once you discover you need vision correction, the first question that often comes to mind is, “Should I get glasses or contacts?” It’s a common question, but there is no one correct answer. It truly depends on your lifestyle, preferences, and your fashion sense. Some people swear by their glasses, while others can’t imagine life without contacts.

Let’s examine the pros and cons of glasses and contact lenses to help you make the best choice for your needs.

The pros and cons of glasses

Glasses are the most common option used by millions of people. More than 150 million adults in America wear glasses. They’re convenient, durable, and can double as a stylish accessory. But, like anything, they have their drawbacks.

Pros of glasses

• Convenience: Glasses are as easy as it gets. You just put them on, and your vision is corrected instantly.
• Low maintenance: Cleaning glasses is straightforward with just a little lens cleaner or soap and a microfiber cloth. And when you’re not using them, a simple case will keep them protected.
• Long-lasting: With proper care, your glasses can last for years.
• Fashionable: Glasses come in all shapes, sizes, and colors.
• Customizable lenses: Glasses offer plenty of options to suit your lifestyle.

Cons of glasses

• Limited field of vision: Glasses don’t cover your peripheral vision.
• Fragile: Replacing glasses can be expensive if you lose or break them.
• Potential discomfort: Some people find glasses uncomfortable on the bridge of their nose or ears.
• Aesthetic preferences: Not everyone loves how they look in glasses.
• Fog and smudging: Glasses can fog up and tend to smudge throughout the day if not cleaned regularly.

The pros and cons of contact lenses

Contacts provide a more seamless, natural look and feel. They’re ideal for people who live active lifestyles or prefer not to always wear glasses, but contacts require a bit more upkeep.

Pros of contact lenses

• Broader field of vision: Contacts sit directly on your eyes, giving you a natural field of vision.
• Ideal for active lifestyles: Contacts stay put and won’t get in the way.
• Discreet: Contacts are practically invisible, with no frames in your way.
• Flexibility with sunglasses: When wearing contacts, you can switch up your sunglasses as often as you like.
• Affordable replacements: Losing a contact lens isn’t as big a deal as breaking glasses.

Cons of contact lenses

• More maintenance required: Contacts must be regularly cleaned, stored, and replaced.
• Takes practice: Learning to put in and take out contacts can be tricky initially, but most people get the hang of it quickly.
• Health risks: Improper care of contacts can lead to eye infections or dryness.
• May cause eye strain: If you’re in front of a screen for long periods, contacts can sometimes worsen eye strain.

Should you switch between glasses and contacts?

Why not use both if you’re torn between glasses and contacts? Many people alternate between the two, enjoying the benefits of each depending on their situation.

You could wear contacts for physical activities, when traveling light, or when you want more freedom. On the flip side, glasses can be your go-to for work or relaxation at home. No rule says you can’t enjoy the best of both worlds!

Ultimately, choosing between glasses and contacts comes down to your personal needs. If you love glasses’ simplicity and fashion options, stick with them. If you value contacts’ freedom and natural vision, they might be your best bet. And if you want flexibility, switching between the two gives you the freedom to adapt your eyewear to your mood and activities.

No matter what you choose, proper vision correction is essential. So, take your time, weigh the pros and cons, and find the eyewear solution that works best for you.