Contact Lens Industry Changes

The contact lens industry is constantly changing with new lens names, types of lenses, and features coming out on a regular basis. While a doctor prescribes the lens that is best for each patient, it's always good to have options so keeping up on these changes is important. Contact lenses are rated on numerous features and some recent reviews had surprising results.

One new lens change is the Air Optix Night and Day. Formerly the Focus Night & Day, the Oasys Night & Day is virtually the same product with only the addition of an inverter marker and visibility tint. Fortunately for contact lens users, the Air Optix Night & Day can be purchased with the old Focus Night and Day prescription. Another recent change in the contact lens industry is the new Acuvue Oasys for Presbyopia. Presbyopia is the medical term for those who need bifocals. The Acuvue Oasys for Presbyopia has the same features and feel as the Acuvue Bifocal, which it should replace over the coming year.

Recent ratings in the March 2009 edition of Contact Lens Spectrum, named the Proclear Toric as the most popular toric contact lens on the market. This comes as surprising news as Acuvue, B&L, and Ciba Vision have popular toric lenses including Biomedics Toric, Purevision Toric, Acuvue Advance for Astigmatism and Air Optix for Astigmatism. The Proclear Toric received high marks in comfort and other factors by contact lens wearers in a study that lasted 5 months. The brand new Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism was not included in the study so results may be different with the next research group.

All contact lens wearers should be aware of new products and ratings to help influence the type of lens your doctor may prescribe.

Ben Thiesmann is a freelance writer with experience in health and fitness related topics. AC Lens is an online contact lens retailer with millions of products in stock including the Proclear Toric and Acuvue Oasys for Presbyopia. Visit their website to find out how to receive free shipping on orders over $89.