Not all contact lenses are made the same, and one big difference lies in the material. When comparing contact lens types, you may notice materials like HEMA, which stands for hydroxyethyl methacrylate, listed on lens packaging or product specs.
HEMA is one of the most commonly used materials in soft contact lenses. It’s been trusted for years and is still used by several well-known brands today. While it might not be the newest tech on the block, HEMA contact lens material still holds its own in terms of comfort and affordability, especially when compared with familiar hydrogel options like Etafilcon A lenses.
We’ll break down what HEMA contact lenses are, why some brands still use it, and whether it’s a good match for your eyes.
What Is HEMA?
HEMA, or hydroxyethyl methacrylate, is a type of soft plastic that absorbs water and becomes flexible. It was one of the first materials used to make soft contact lenses and has been around since the 1970s.
Higher water content can make a HEMA lens feel soft initially, but it may also lose moisture more quickly in dry, windy, or air-conditioned environments. HEMA also generally transmits less oxygen than newer silicone hydrogel contact lenses, which may make it better suited to shorter daily wearing periods.
The most appropriate material depends on your tear film, prescription, comfort needs, and wearing schedule. Your eye care professional can determine whether HEMA or silicone hydrogel contact lenses are better suited to your eyes.
How Do HEMA Contact Lenses Work?
HEMA contact lenses absorb water and remain soft while hydrated. Once placed on your eye, the flexible material conforms to the corneal surface and allows your tear film to spread across the lens.
Higher water content may give a HEMA lens a soft initial feel, but it can also cause the lens to lose moisture more quickly during long wear or in dry environments. This differs from other types of contact lenses that use silicone, rigid materials, surface treatments, or specialized moisture technologies to support oxygen flow and comfort.
Because HEMA generally provides lower oxygen permeability than newer silicone hydrogel materials, it may be better suited to shorter daily wearing periods. Follow your eye care professional’s instructions for wear time, cleaning, and replacement.
Pros and Cons of HEMA Contact Lenses
Like any lens material, HEMA contact lens material has its pros and cons. Here’s a simple breakdown:
Pros
- Soft and comfortable for short-term wear
- Usually more affordable than newer lens materials
- Easy to handle and insert
Cons
- Allows less oxygen to reach the eye compared to newer materials
- May dry out more quickly during the day
- Not designed for extended or overnight wear
Popular Brands That Use HEMA in Contact Lenses
Several brands still use HEMA contact lens material in their designs, especially for daily and bi-weekly lenses. Here are a few examples:
1. SofLens 38 (Bausch + Lomb)
SofLens 38 is made with polymacon, a hydrogel material based on hydroxyethyl methacrylate. It features a thin design for daily comfort and sharp vision. These lenses are approved for daily wear and must be removed at night. They’re known for resisting deposits and are great for users who want a simple, dependable lens.
- Lens type: 1-2 Week Disposable
- Oxygen transmissibility: 24 Dk/t
- Replacement schedule: Monthly
2. Biomedics 55 Premier Asphere (CooperVision)
The Coopervision Biomedics 55 Premier Asphere is a soft lens made from ocufilcon D, a HEMA-based hydrogel. It has a rounded edge design that improves comfort and reduces friction against the eyelid. It also helps correct spherical aberration, giving you clearer, more stable vision throughout the day.
- Lens type: 1-2 Week Disposable
- Oxygen transmissibility: 28.1 Dk/t
- Replacement schedule: 2 weeks
3. Proclear 1 Day (CooperVision)
Proclear 1 Day uses omafilcon A, a hydrogel blend that includes HEMA. It’s designed to retain moisture all day, making it a strong choice for wearers who experience dryness. Since it’s a daily disposable, there’s no need to clean or store it—just wear and toss.
- Lens type: Daily disposable
- Oxygen transmissibility: 37 Dk/t
- Replacement schedule: Daily
4. FreshLook ColorBlends (Alcon)
FreshLook ColorBlends contact lenses are made with phemfilcon A, a type of contact lens HEMA material. These lenses offer a unique 3-in-1 color blending technology to enhance or change your natural eye color. They’re comfortable for daily use and replaced monthly.
- Lens type: Color Disposable
- Oxygen transmissibility: 16 Dk/t
- Replacement schedule: 2 Weeks
5. DAILIES AquaComfort Plus (Alcon)
DAILIES AquaComfort Plus 90 pack contacts are made of a hydrogel that includes hydroxyethyl methacrylate. These daily disposables are designed with a triple-action moisturizing system to keep your eyes refreshed with every blink. These Nelfilcon A contact lenses are a great pick for anyone who wants convenience and all-day comfort.
- Lens type: Daily disposable
- Oxygen transmissibility: 26 Dk/t
- Replacement schedule: Daily
Along with lens material, make sure your numbers match the correct eye using the OD vs OS contact lens prescription guide and calculator.
Is a HEMA Contact Lens Right for You?
HEMA contact lenses might not be the latest innovation, but they’re still a reliable option if you value comfort, affordability, and simple wear schedules. There are plenty of HEMA-based options that can meet your needs.
But finding the right lens is only half the matter. Where you buy your lenses matters, too.
That’s why it’s smart to choose a trusted retailer like Lens.com. Not only can you find authentic brands at competitive prices, but you also get access to helpful tools, rebates, and fast shipping all in one place.
