So your teenager wants contact lenses! Many do.
Some are tired of dealing with thick glasses and want the freedom of prescription contact lenses, or just want better vision during sport. Others want to switch to a glasses-free look, or try novelty or colour contact lenses. What should you, as a parent, be aware of for contact lenses for teenagers? Here are some considerations.
Caution: Halloween contact lenses
Halloween contact lenses or colour contact lenses can be a lot of fun, especially for teens who want to express their individuality. If your teen wants to buy these and other novelty contact lenses online, know that some may not be government approved unless they are purchased through the right channels.
Contact lenses are medical devices. Wearing contact lenses that aren't fitted and prescribed by a professional could damage your teen's eyes. Consult your optician for more information on this subject.
Consider disposable contact lenses for teens
Wearing clean contact lenses is key for maintaining healthy eyes.
Getting dailies (disposable contact lenses that you discard at the end the day) can help.
- With disposable contact lenses, the wear schedule is easy to remember.
- Dailies can help with allergies, soothing irritated eyes.
- They offer a self-esteem boost in helping teens succeed with their new responsibility.
Contact lenses and sport: A winning pair
If your teen plays sport in school or with a club, contact lenses can make life easier for both of you.
- No broken glasses means you stop worrying about glasses-related injuries and repairs.
- No more slipping or falling glasses during practise or games.
- Contact lenses cover a wider field of view, giving you better peripheral vision.
- Contact lenses make it easier to wear protective goggles.
Having the talk: Your teen's first time with contact lenses
This is an important responsibility. Handling contact lenses properly helps keep your eyes and vision at their best. Some tips you should share with your teen include:
Don't share contact lenses
Not only can sharing contact lenses encourage infection, but wearing contact lenses that are fitted and have the proper prescription is critical to protecting your vision.
Handle with care
Contact lenses can rip. Never wear ripped contact lenses, which can scratch your eyes. Wash hands before applying.
Your eyes are one of your immune system's most vulnerable points, and germs that find their way to your contact lenses wind up in your eyes.
Let your teen know that contact lenses can offer many benefits, but they require the care we discussed, too.