The ever-developing technology makes vision aids come in various types, from glasses to contact lenses. Some people often prefer contact lenses because they are considered more practical than using glasses.
Contact lenses are thin plastic lenses that can be used in the eyes with the function of helping to overcome vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and old eyes.
Based on their composition, contact lenses have two types: soft and hard lenses. Most people more widely know soft lenses compared to hard lenses. Although they look similar at first glance, these two types of contact lenses have their respective functions and advantages and disadvantages.
Get to know what a soft lens is.
A soft lens is a type of contact lens made of plastic and water. This water content provides oxygen to the cornea of the eye to provide a sense of comfort for the user.
Do you know what a hard lens is?
In contrast to soft lenses, hard lenses, or what is currently known as RGP (Rigid Gas Permeable) contact, is a type of contact lens made of plastic with a silicone material that this type allows oxygen to penetrate and pass through it to the cornea without changing the shape of the lens.
The difference between soft lenses and hard lenses
The most significant difference between the two types of contact lenses is their shape. Soft lenses have a larger diameter than hard lenses. Apart from the shape, it is certain that the texture of the soft lens and hard lens is also different. Soft lenses have a texture that tends to be softer and easily attached to the eye. Soft lens users will feel more comfortable and safe when using them.
Meanwhile, hard lenses have a texture that tends to be harder and sturdier than soft lenses, so it is possible for users to feel like something is blocking their eyes. Hard lenses take longer to get used to if they want to use them.
When talking in terms of price, hard lenses are more expensive than soft lenses. However, hard lenses can be used for a longer period.
Advantages and disadvantages of soft lenses
Soft lenses have several advantages; they are more comfortable and economical and do not easily come off and shift on the eyeball. However, because of their thin texture, soft lenses tear more easily.
Using soft lenses for too long can also cause eye irritation because the eyes lack oxygen. Therefore, you should be able to choose a soft lens whose water content follows the eye's condition. Usually, soft lenses have a water content of around 35% to 75%.
The advantages and disadvantages of hard lenses
Hard lenses have several advantages. Namely, they are more durable, lasting about a year, not easily torn, and provide sharper vision compared to soft lenses.
Behind these advantages, hard lenses are smaller, making them very easy to get out of the eye and allowing dust or dirt to enter the lens.
Whatever type of contact lens to use, both soft and hard lenses, of course, have a function to help overcome vision. You can use any contact lens depending on your needs and eye conditions, ladies!