Contact Lenses for Screen Use
Spending long hours looking at screens is one of the most common reasons contact lens wearers notice their eyes feeling tired, dry or strained. When we concentrate on a computer, phone or tablet we tend to blink less often, which means the tear film breaks down more quickly and lenses can start to feel less comfortable as the day goes on.
The right contact lenses can help. Designs that retain moisture well, allow good oxygen flow and keep a smooth surface against the eye generally perform better during extended screen time. Daily disposables are often a strong choice because you begin each day with a fresh lens, but some modern weekly, two-weekly, and monthly lenses also include technologies that support comfort during long periods of digital work.
Our Optometrists’ Advice
If your eyes regularly feel tired or dry after screen use, it is worth mentioning this at your next eye examination. Your optometrist can assess your tear film, check how your current lenses are performing, and recommend a lens type or wearing schedule better suited to digital work. In many cases a simple change of lens can make a noticeable difference.
John Dreyer BSc (Hons), MCOptom, DipCL
Optometrist & Clinical Content Reviewer
Who these lenses are for
- People who work at a computer for much of the day
- Those who notice dryness, tiredness or blurred vision after screen use
- Wearers whose lenses feel fine in the morning but less comfortable by mid-afternoon or evening
- Anyone looking for better comfort during long periods of focused near work
What to look for in Contact Lenses for Screen Use
Screen use reduces blink rate, so the lens needs to hold moisture effectively and stay smooth on the eye. Silicone hydrogel materials help by allowing more oxygen through, while daily disposables avoid the gradual build-up of deposits that can make discomfort worse. Some lenses also incorporate wetting agents or surface technologies designed to work with the eye’s natural tears during prolonged visual tasks.
Recommended Contact Lens Options for Screen Use
Daily disposables
- Crystal Aqua Daily – Our own-brand daily lens with a hyaluronic moisturising agent. A practical, good-value option if screen use leaves your eyes feeling dry.
- Dailies Total 1 – Premium water-gradient lens that keeps a high level of moisture at the surface. Popular with people who spend long days on screens.
- Acuvue Oasys 1-Day with HydraLuxe – Uses tear-inspired technology that supports comfort during digital device use.
- MyDay Daily Disposable – Breathable silicone hydrogel daily lens that many wearers find comfortable for extended screen time.
- Precision 1 – SMARTSURFACE technology helps maintain moisture on the lens surface throughout the day.
Weekly / Two-weekly options
- Precision 7 – Weekly lens with sustained moisture release, designed to keep comfort more consistent across the full wearing period.
- Acuvue Oasys – Two-weekly silicone hydrogel lens known for good moisture retention and comfort during demanding visual tasks.
Monthly options
- Biofinity – Silicone hydrogel monthly lens with Aquaform technology that supports moisture and oxygen flow.
- Air Optix plus HydraGlyde – Monthly lens with HydraGlyde moisture technology, useful for people who prefer reusable lenses but still want good end-of-day comfort.
FAQs
Why do my contact lenses feel worse when I use screens?
Reduced blinking causes the tear film to break up more quickly, so the lens surface can dry out and friction increases. This is very common and often improves with a more moisture-focused lens.
Are daily lenses better for screen use than monthly lenses?
Daily lenses are frequently recommended because they start each day clean and moist. However, some modern weekly and monthly lenses with advanced wetting systems can also perform well for people who prefer reusable options.
Can the right contact lenses reduce digital eye strain?
They can help with the dryness and discomfort side of screen use. Clear, stable vision and a comfortable lens reduce one source of strain, although good lighting, screen position and regular breaks remain important.
Should I use rewetting drops while working on screens?
Yes, if your optometrist advises it. Choose drops that are compatible with contact lenses, preferably preservative-free.
Will I still need to take screen breaks if I change my lenses?
Yes. Even the best lens works better when you give your eyes regular breaks and remember to blink fully.
