Our vision is one of the most important senses for us as humans. We may not give it as much credit (because really, we’re humans – why value something when we have it, right?) but it is, in fact, our gateway into how we perceive the world. ‘Love at first sight’ is not just a phrase, it does happen for many, and it’s all thanks to our vision. Despite being such a tiny part of our body, our eyes are indeed priceless and thus demand proper care and love. This is where silicone hydrogel contact lenses come into the picture for those with advanced eye care needs. Introduced in 2002, silicone hydrogel contact lenses are great for extended and continuous wear, even for people with sensitive eyes. Read on to know why.

What are silicone hydrogel contact lenses?

Unlike regular contact lenses, silicone hydrogel contact lenses are a specially designed soft lens. Their special design enables as much as five times more oxygen to pass through the lens to the cornea. Thus, silicone hydrogel contact lenses are ideal for those who wear their lenses for long periods of time, or people who work under conditions that are harmful for the eye.

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Are ‘Silicon’ and ‘Silicone’ lenses the same?

Silicon and silicone are two very different substances. To understand them better, it is crucial to know the difference between the two. Silicon is a common mineral found in substances such as dust and sand, whereas silicone is a gel-like plastic material which contains silicon as well as oxygen and carbon among other elements.

The types of silicone hydrogels used to manufacture contact lenses today are:
1. Galyfilcon
2. Senofilcon
3. Comfilcon
4. Enfilcon

While purchasing silicone hydrogel lenses, one can always tap into the information about its dk and dk/t, which is the measurement of oxygen permeability and oxygen transmissibility respectively. For instance, Miacare lenses come with oxygen permeability and transmissibility as high as Dk/t 150 and Dk/t 187.5.

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Silicone hydrogel contact lenses are thus the need of the hour for people who want to move away from spectacles. They not only help you with a clearer vision but also ensure that they keep your eyes nourished in the process.