Can I Wear Sunglasses with Contact Lenses?

Can you wear sunglasses while using contact lenses? This question often arises when individuals opt for contact lenses as a preferred visual correction method. The answer depends on several factors, including your specific eye condition and the type of contact lenses you are using.

Can I Wear Sunglasses with Contact Lenses?

Wearing prescription glasses can sometimes lead to noticeable distortions in photos, especially if you have a high degree of myopia. This is why many people prefer to use contact lenses or wear glasses without lenses for cosmetic reasons. Additionally, tinted blue light blocking glasses can be a stylish and comfortable alternative.

For individuals wearing multifocal rigid gas permeable contact lenses, excessive glare in bright sunlight is a common issue. Polarized sunglasses can help mitigate this problem, but it's important to note that sunglasses can affect how multifocal contacts work, as these lenses are optimized for natural light conditions.

Alternative Solutions for Visual Comfort

One great option is to wear distance-colored contact lenses, and then use progressive eye glasses. These glasses have a top portion with zero power for distance vision and a 2.25 power for near vision. This combination works wonderfully well for those who prefer the convenience of contact lenses while needing some additional vision correction for close work.

It's important to be mindful of the potential consequences of mixing contact lenses and prescription glasses. Wearing distance glasses over distance contacts can result in a prescription that is twice as strong as needed, leading to discomfort and reduced vision clarity. Conversely, using reading glasses over distance contacts generally works well, but some individuals may set their contact lenses for reading or intermediate distances and then use glasses for best distance or driving vision.

Importance of Proper Prescription

Putting your distance glasses over your distance contact lenses can lead to an overly strong prescription, which can cause eye strain, dizziness, and even headaches. While your eyes will not experience permanent physical damage, it is not advisable to experiment with your vision correction without the proper prescription.

To avoid these issues, it is crucial to get the correct prescription for both your contact lenses and glasses. Thankfully, modern technology has made it easier and more affordable to obtain the right prescription, ensuring clear and comfortable vision in all situations.

Conclusion

Whether you prefer wearing contact lenses, glasses, or a combination of both, it's essential to maintain the correct vision correction for both methods. Consulting with an optometrist and obtaining personalized advice can help you achieve the best possible visual experience. Remember, taking care of your eyes is as important as taking care of your heart.