Provide a valuable resource to your clients or customers by linking to this resource page. Just place the following link on your website.
UV-Blocking Contact Lenses are prescription contact lenses that have a UV-absorbing chemical incorporated into the lens material. These lenses are designed to block or absorb a significant portion of ultraviolet (UV) light before it reaches the cornea and the delicate internal structures of the eye. They are a valuable addition to eye care, but they are not a substitute for sunglasses.
read more about uv blocking contact lenses ...Contact lenses are grouped into two categories based on the amount of UV light they block, as defined by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA):
Class 2: Provides strong UV protection. These lenses block at least 70% of UVA and 95% of UVB radiation.
Benefits:
Limitations:
No Full Eye Coverage: Contact lenses only cover the cornea, leaving the surrounding eye tissue, conjunctiva, and eyelids exposed to UV rays. This external tissue can still suffer damage like skin cancer or pterygium (surfer's eye).
UV-blocking contact lenses should always be paired with UV400 sunglasses when outdoors. While the contacts protect the inner eye structure covered by the lens, they do not block the light that hits the periphery of the eye. Full-coverage sunglasses are still necessary to protect the eyelids and the surrounding skin from both UV damage and harmful rays that reflect around the contacts.
Lens.com strongly advises that UV-blocking contact lenses should always be paired with UV400 sunglasses when outdoors. Since contacts only cover the cornea, you need sunglasses to protect the eyelids, the conjunctiva, and the surrounding skin, all of which are highly susceptible to UV-related aging and potential cancer risk.
No. Only lenses specifically labeled as "UV blocking" contain the necessary absorbent agents. Always check the packaging or ask your eye care professional.
If a child is medically cleared and able to handle contact lenses, UV-blocking versions offer important protection, especially since children spend a significant amount of time outdoors.
No. Any slight handling tint added to a contact lens is for visibility and does not contribute to the level of UV filtration, which is embedded in the material itself.