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Choosing between contact lenses and glasses is more than just a matter of style — it’s about comfort, convenience, and what best suits your lifestyle. Both are excellent options.
If you’re on the fence, read on as our experts at Maryland Eye Care Center share the pros and cons of contact lenses and glasses.
Over 166 million American adults wear glasses. You might consider glasses because they’re:
Glasses are easy to put on and take off — overnight soaking solutions or touching your eyes isn’t required. That’s particularly great if you like to get up and go in the morning without having to put anything in your eyes. Or maybe you only need to wear corrective lenses while you read.
Though the initial cost may be higher, glasses typically last longer than contacts and don’t require a steady supply of cleaning solution. Unless your prescription changes, you can wear the same pair for years.
Glasses provide a physical barrier against dust, wind, and environmental irritants. That’s particularly good if you’re prone to eye allergies.
Glasses can double as a fashion accessory that complements your style. Our team offers a curated selection of top brands, including Coach, Burberry, Hugo Boss, and Calvin Klein.
Disadvantages of wearing glasses include:
Because glasses sit a short distance from your eyes, peripheral vision may be slightly limited. This effect is more noticeable with narrow, small, or oval frames. Choosing larger frames and lenses can help improve peripheral vision.
During sports, exercise, or other activities, glasses may slip, fog up, or break.
Some people find glasses uncomfortable on the nose or behind the ears, especially with heavy frames or strong prescriptions.
More people wear glasses than contacts, but a significant number of people choose contacts — 45 million in the U.S. You might consider contacts because:
Contacts conform to the shape of your eye to provide a wider view and eliminate peripheral distortion.
Contacts stay in place during physical activity and won’t fog up, making them great for sports or outdoor adventures. You can wear protective sports goggles or ski goggles with ease.
Unlike glasses, contacts don’t interfere with your appearance or get in the way of makeup, sunglasses, or headwear.
Disadvantages of wearing contacts include that they:
Contacts need regular cleaning, proper storage, and good hygiene to avoid eye infections. You may also need to tend to your contacts during the day too — if, for example, a rogue eyelash or a piece of dust gets stuck in your eye.
People with dry eyes, allergies, or certain eye conditions may find contacts uncomfortable or unsuitable.
Contact lenses need replacing regularly, and the cost of lens solutions can add up over time. Expenses vary depending on the brand you use and how often you replace your lenses. Contact lens options include daily disposables and longer-wear lenses.
Many people actually use both — glasses for work or home and contacts for going out, sports, or special occasions. During your eye exam at Maryland Eye Care Center, our team can help you explore your options and determine what works best based on your vision needs and lifestyle.
We also offer specialized care for other eye concerns, including dry eye, through our dedicated Dry Eye Center.
Ready to talk about your vision correction options? Request an appointment online today at one of our locations in Hyattsville and Silver Spring, Maryland, or call our team at 301-431-0431. We can help you see clearly — your way.
