Eye Health Central

Which Contact Lenses Are Right For Me?

Choose the Right Contact Lenses for You

Our Optometrists’ Advice

Before you decide, it’s important to remember that contact lenses are medical devices. The only way to know for certain which lenses are right for your eyes is through a proper contact lens fitting and aftercare with a registered optometrist or contact lens optician.

This page is a helpful starting point, not a replacement for professional advice. Always wear lenses that match your current, valid prescription and follow the wearing schedule recommended by your eye care practitioner.

How to Use This Guide

Look at the sections below and choose the options that best describe you. Each section gives a short explanation and then points you to the most relevant advice and products.

1. What is your main priority?

I want maximum comfort / I suffer from dry eyes

Daily disposable silicone hydrogel lenses are usually the best starting point; they allow more oxygen to reach the eye and are replaced every day, so tend to feel more comfortable, especially if your eyes dry out easily.

I need clear, stable vision because I have astigmatism

Toric lenses are designed to stay in position and give clearer, more stable vision. Standard lenses can rotate on the eye and cause blurred vision if you have astigmatism.

I want the simplest option with no cleaning

Daily disposable lenses are worn once and then thrown away. There is no need for solutions, lens cases, or cleaning routines, which makes them very convenient.

I want good value and don’t mind cleaning lenses

Monthly, two-weekly, or weekly disposable lenses cost less per day of wear if you use them regularly, but they do need to be cleaned and stored properly each night.

I want the highest performance and comfort

Premium lenses often use advanced materials that offer better breathability, moisture retention, and overall comfort.

I’m over 40 and need help with near and distance vision

Multifocal contact lenses are designed to provide clear vision at different distances, helping with the natural changes that occur with age.

2. Do you have any of these specific vision needs?

3. How do you prefer to wear your lenses?

Daily disposables

Worn once and discarded at the end of the day. No cleaning required. Ideal for beginners, busy lifestyles, dry eyes, and people who only wear lenses occasionally.

Monthly, two-weekly, or weekly lenses

Designed to be worn for a set period and cleaned each night with contact lens solution. These are usually more economical if you wear lenses every day.

Extended wear lenses

Some lenses are approved for overnight wear (from a few nights up to 30 days, depending on the brand). While convenient, overnight wear increases the risk of eye complications and is not suitable for everyone. This option should only be considered after a full discussion and fitting with your optometrist.

contact lens options

4. Lifestyle & Situation

I work on screens most of the day

Long periods of screen use can reduce blinking and lead to drier, more tired eyes. Lenses with good moisture retention are usually recommended.

I play sport or have an active lifestyle

Daily disposables are often preferred because they reduce the risk of losing a lens - and if you do lose a lens the cost of replacement is less - and are more hygienic during exercise.

I travel a lot

Daily disposables are the simplest option when you’re away from home. It’s also wise to carry spare lenses and avoid using tap water on your lenses.

I’m new to contact lenses

Most first-time wearers start with daily disposables because they are straightforward to use and require no cleaning routine.

I’m buying for a teenager

Daily disposables are frequently recommended for younger wearers. Ease of use, good hygiene, and safety are the main priorities.

Quick Comparison

Lens Type Best For Cleaning Required Typical Cost Level Overnight Wear
Daily Disposable Convenience, hygiene, dry eyes No Higher No
Monthly / 2-Weekly Everyday wear, value Yes Lower Only if specifically approved
Toric Astigmatism Depends on type Medium–Higher Only if the specific lens is approved for overnight wear
Multifocal Presbyopia (over 40s) Depends on type Medium–Higher Only if the specific lens is approved for overnight wear
Extended Wear Maximum convenience Minimal Higher Yes (when approved by your optometrist)


Wearing styles

Still Not Sure?

If you would like more detailed information, read our Complete Contact Lens Buying Guide. It explains materials, oxygen flow, replacement schedules, and other key factors in greater depth.

You can also browse our full range and filter by type, brand or replacement schedule.


Author: John Dreyer Optometrist Bsc(Hons), MCOPTOM, DipCLP
Last modified: 14 Sept 2026