Hard Contact Lenses: Are They Right for You?
Hard contact lenses might not get all the attention, but they’re definitely the unsung heroes of the contact lens world. If you’ve ever wondered why some people swear by them, let’s dive into what makes hard lenses stand out—and whether they might be the right choice for you.
What Are Hard Contact Lenses?
Today’s rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses are breathable, durable, and custom-fitted to your eyes. Unlike soft lenses, RGP lenses hold their shape, offering crisp and stable vision instead of molding to the surface of your eye.
The Benefits of Hard Contact Lenses
So why might someone choose RGP lenses over soft ones? Here’s why:
✔ Sharper vision: RGP lenses deliver clearer, more consistent vision—especially for people with astigmatism or keratoconus. Keratoconus is a condition where the cornea thins and bulges, and RGP lenses are often the best solution to restore stable vision for people with this condition.
✔ Longer lifespan: Hard lenses can last a year or more with proper care, unlike soft lenses that need to be replaced frequently.
✔ Better eye health: Because RGP lenses allow more oxygen to reach your eyes, they can help reduce the risk of dryness and infections.
✔ Custom fit: RGP lenses are made just for your eyes, meaning they can correct complex vision issues. They’re also available in scleral lenses, which are even larger and create a smooth surface for the cornea, making them ideal for people with keratoconus or other corneal irregularities.
The Drawbacks of Hard Contact Lenses
While RGP lenses have a lot to offer, they’re not for everyone. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
✖ Adjustment period: It takes time to get used to hard lenses. Some people adjust in a few days, others take weeks or months.
✖ Not for part-time wearers: RGP lenses need to be worn regularly to stay comfortable. If you only wear contacts occasionally, soft lenses might be a better option.
✖ Easy to lose: Hard lenses can be smaller than soft ones, so if you drop one, you might end up on the floor searching for it.
Hard vs. Soft Contact Lenses: Which is Better?
It really comes down to what you need. If you’re looking for comfort and convenience, soft lenses are probably your best bet. But if you want sharper vision, longer-lasting lenses, and don’t mind a little adjustment time, RGP lenses could be a game-changer.
| Feature | Hard (RGP) Lenses | Soft Lenses |
|---|---|---|
| Vision clarity | Sharp, stable | Good, but can fluctuate |
| Comfort | Takes time to adjust | Comfortable from day one for most people |
| Lifespan | 1+ year | Daily, biweekly, or monthly |
| Oxygen flow | High | Varies by type |
| Best for | Complex prescriptions, astigmatism, keratoconus | Everyday convenience |
Are Hard Contact Lenses Right for You?
If you’re curious about RGP lenses, the best next step is to chat with your eye doctor. They’ll help you figure out if these lenses are the right fit for your vision needs.
Already got your prescription? You can order your lenses online and have them delivered right to your door.
At Blue Planet Optics, we’re proud to support individuals living with vision challenges, including through our partnership with the Angel Eyes Foundation. Together, we work to provide financial support to those with keratoconus.
Hard Contact Lenses FAQ
Q: What is keratoconus, and how do RGP lenses help?
A: Keratoconus is a condition where the cornea becomes thin and cone-shaped. RGP lenses create a smooth surface that improves vision clarity—often more effectively than glasses or soft lenses.
Q: Are there any downsides to hard contact lenses?
A: Yes, a few things to consider:
They take some getting used to – adjustment can take a few days to a few weeks.
Not ideal for occasional wear – they’re best worn regularly.
Easier to lose – since they’re smaller, they can be tricky to find if dropped.
Q: How do I know if hard lenses are right for me?
A: The best way is to talk to your eye doctor. They’ll assess your eye health and vision needs to see if RGP lenses are a good match.
Q: Can I order hard contact lenses online?
A: Yes! If you have a valid prescription, you can order your RGP lenses online and get them delivered straight to your door.
Q: Does Blue Planet Optics support people with vision challenges?
A: Absolutely. Through our partnership with the Angel Eyes Foundation, we help provide financial support to individuals with keratoconus and other vision conditions. Supporting your vision journey is at the heart of what we do.