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Updated June 30, 2026 – Choosing the right monthly contact lens can make a big difference in both comfort and eye health. Two popular monthly brands offer advanced technology designed for maximum moisture retention and long-lasting wear: AIR OPTIX® AQUA and AIR OPTIX® plus HydraGlyde®.
Both are solid, reputable options, but how do you know which one is the best fit for you?
Scroll down to learn how these two compare, as well as where to buy AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses and AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts.
Disclaimer: This information is intended as a resource, not medical advice. Be sure to consult with your eye care professional (ECP) to determine your specific needs.
Summary: AIR OPTIX AQUA vs. AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde
| Brand | AIR OPTIX AQUA | AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde |
| Manufacturer | Alcon | Alcon |
| Wearing Schedule | Daily wear or up to 6 nights extended wear |
Daily wear or up to 6 nights extended wear |
| Material | Silicone hydrogel (67% lotrafilcon B) | Silicone hydrogel (67% lotrafilcon B) |
| Water Content | 33% | 33% |
| Vision Problems Corrected | – Nearsightedness – Farsightedness |
– Nearsightedness – Farsightedness |
| Special Features | – SmartShield® Technology – TriComfort™ Technology – Visibility tint |
– SmartShield® Technology – HydraGlyde® Moisture Matrix Technology – Visibility tint |
| Lens Design | Spherical | Spherical |
| Lenses Per Box | 6 (6-month supply) | 6 (6-month supply) |
What Are AIR OPTIX AQUA Contact Lenses?
AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses by Alcon are a tried-and-tested monthly lens brand for many users.
Designed to keep eyes fresh and white, AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses offer reliable comfort and can be worn for up to 6 nights straight. This makes them a great option for:
- People who want to sleep with their contacts in
- People who want a breathable monthly lens for overnight or extended wear
- People who struggle with eye dryness during contact lens wear
- People who want outstanding 24-hour comfort in a lens
- People who want healthy-looking eyes
Shop Quality Affordable Contacts at Lens.com
Understanding SmartShield and TriComfort Technology
SmartShield Technology in AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses creates an ultra-thin protective layer around the outer surface of the lens. This layer helps the lens stay wet and resist irritating deposits. It even helps the lens resist changing from everyday cosmetic product use. Simply put, SmartShield Technology helps keep AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses clean and comfortable throughout the wearing period.
But, wait: what are deposits?
Every time you blink, a thin layer of tears called a “tear film” spreads across the surface of your cornea. This film keeps the eye’s surface wet, facilitates the eyelid’s movement, and protects the eye from dirt, dust, and other irritating particles. Components of the tear film—proteins, lipids, and mucins—work together to keep the eyes healthy, but they deposit on contact lenses within the first few minutes of wear. They may even accumulate over time, depending on the composition of the lens material.
Contact lens deposits can potentially reduce lens surface wettability and negatively impact comfort, wearing time, and quality of vision. They can even increase your risk for contact lens-related complications, such as papillary conjunctivitis, punctate keratitis, and microbial keratitis.
Meanwhile, TriComfort Technology in AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses helps keep the lenses moist from morning to night. Together with SmartShield Technology, TriComfort Technology ensures a comfortable lens-wearing experience all month.
Are AIR OPTIX AQUA Being Discontinued?
Yes, AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses have been discontinued. Alcon announced in September 2021 that AIR OPTIX AQUA would be phased out.
First introduced over a decade ago, AIR OPTIX AQUA was considered cutting-edge at the time. Unfortunately (or perhaps fortunately), advancements in technology have since made it obsolete. Alcon now recommends switching to AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde, which offers improved moisture retention and comfort.
And if you’re wondering, “Is Alcon discontinuing all Air Optix?”—no, only the AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses are being discontinued. If you’re searching for AIR OPTIX AQUA discontinued updates, note that newer lenses like AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts are still available.
Note: You can still buy AIR OPTIX AQUA lenses at Lens.com while supplies last. It’s a great chance to stock up before they’re officially unavailable.
Other Frequently Asked Questions About AIR OPTIX AQUA Contacts
1. Can I sleep in AIR OPTIX AQUA?
Yes, you can sleep in AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses. They are approved for daily wear and up to 6 nights of extended wear. Consult your ECP to determine if overnight wear is safe for you based on your eye health and specific needs.
2. How long can I wear AIR OPTIX AQUA?
You can wear AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses daily for up to 30 days or continuously (without removing them) for up to 7 days. Your eye doctor may adjust the wear schedule based on your specific needs.
3. Can you sleep in AIR OPTIX AQUA contacts?
Yes, you can sleep in AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses for up to 6 nights, provided your eye doctor approves extended wear. Always follow your doctor’s guidance to minimize risks like eye infections or discomfort.
4. Can you wear AIR OPTIX AQUA overnight?
Yes, AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses are approved for overnight wear for up to 6 consecutive nights. That said, you should only do this with the approval of your eye care provider to ensure the safety of your eyes.
What Are AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde Contacts?
AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts are another popular monthly lens brand from Alcon. Featuring two innovative lens technologies, AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts deliver superior reliable comfort all month long.
Alcon discontinued AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses in September 2021 and replaced them with AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts, a new-and-improved version that promises improved deposit protection and long-lasting lens hydration.
AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde Lens Technology: What Is HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix?
AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts kept the SmartShield Technology from AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses and added HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix. This technology surrounds the lens in longer-lasting surface moisture for better hydration. In Alcon’s exact words, it “retains longer lasting lens surface moisture after 16 hours of simulated wear.”
So while SmartShield Technology creates a smooth and protective outer surface that protects against disruptive deposits, HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix surrounds the lens with an additional level of moisture. The result is reliable comfort throughout the month.
AIR OPTIX HydraGlyde Review: What Users Say
AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts are one of the most popular brands of monthly lenses in the market, so there’s no shortage of users providing reviews.
Many users find AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts to be comfortable for daily wear, with several reviewers praising the HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix technology for keeping their eyes hydrated throughout the day. Users also report that the lenses are easy to insert and remove, thanks to their smooth surface and thin design.
In terms of value for money, many users believe that AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts offer a good balance between cost and performance. They are slightly more expensive than other monthly lenses, but the added comfort and moisture retention make them worth the investment for many.
Other Frequently Asked Questions About AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde Contact Lenses
1. How long can I wear AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde?
You can wear AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts daily for up to 30 days, as long as you remove and clean them each night. Alternatively, you can wear them continuously for up to 6 nights and 7 days if approved by your eye doctor.
2. Can you sleep in AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde?
Yes, you can sleep in AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts for up to 6 consecutive nights. This should only be done with the approval of your eye care provider.
3. How long can you wear AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde?
You can wear AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts for up to 30 days with daily wear and proper cleaning. If worn continuously, they can last up to 6 nights and 7 days. Be sure to consult with your eye doctor for the best wearing schedule.
4. How long do AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde last?
AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts last up to 30 days if they are removed, cleaned, and stored properly each night.
5. How long can you wear AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts?
You can wear AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts daily for up to 30 days or continuously for up to 6 nights. Always consult your ECP to determine the most suitable wear schedule for your needs.
Comparing AIR OPTIX AQUA vs. AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde
Let’s now discuss the similarities and differences between AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde vs. AQUA.
1. Wearing & Replacement Schedules
Both AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses and AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts are monthlies. This means they are designed to be worn daily for up to 30 days with proper care. Both brands are approved for up to 6 nights of extended wear as well. Consult your eye doctor first to confirm if extended wear is safe for your eyes.
2. Comfort (Lens Material & Water Content)
Both lenses are made from the same silicone hydrogel material, lotrafilcon B, which is known for its high breathability and oxygen permeability. Oxygen is necessary to keep your eyes health and comfortable throughout the day.
Also, both lenses have low water content.
Lenses with higher water content tend to draw moisture from the eyes and potentially cause more dryness, whereas low water content lenses like AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses and AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts help maintain moisture by reducing evaporation.
3. Special Features or Lens Tech
AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses feature SmartShield Technology and TriComfort to protect against deposits and maintain comfort, while AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contact lenses incorporate SmartShield but replaces TriComfort with HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix, which is designed to keep lenses moist for longer periods.
Both lenses have a visibility tint for easy handling, but neither offers UV protection. This means you may need additional sun protection if you’re outdoors frequently.
4. Price
AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses and AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts are considered affordable options (low to mid price range). They are a great value for the quality they offer. The addition of HydraGlyde in AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts may slightly increase their price at some retailers, but both options are generally solid economical options.
5. Customer Reviews
Users praise both lenses for their comfort and ease of use, but AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts tend to stand out when it comes to moisture retention. HydraGlyde’s advanced moisture matrix gives AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts an edge for users who struggle with eye dryness or sensitivity.
Generally, though, both monthly lens brands receive high marks for overall quality.
Keep in mind that although user reviews provide useful insights, the final decision should always be made in consultation with your eye doctor. Only a licensed professional can prescribe the best brand for you based on your specific vision needs, eye health, and lifestyle.
AIR OPTIX AQUA vs. AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde: The Lens.com Verdict
So, which will AIR OPTIX AQUA vs. AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde be? Here’s our take:
If you’re looking for a reliable, comfortable monthly lens, AIR OPTIX AQUA contact lenses are a solid choice. But if you need extra moisture retention, longer-lasting comfort, or an extra edge in hydration, AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts offer the added benefit of HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix. Both options offer excellent value for their price point.
In the end, the best monthly lens for you will always depend on your eye doctor’s recommendation, based on your eye health, lifestyle, and personal needs. This AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde vs. AIR OPTIX AQUA guide can simply serve as a useful resource when discussing options with your provider.
Already have a prescription? You may order AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde online at Lens.com. As a leading retailer since 1995, we also carry a full range of contact lenses, including toric, multifocal, and custom RGP options. Plus, our convenient online vision exam and ordering process make it easy to get exactly what you need, with or without insurance. Enjoy competitive prices, exclusive rebates, and more when you shop at Lens.com!
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