People wear contact lenses for vision correction, convenience, and aesthetics and to avoid the visual obstructions associated with traditional eyeglasses. Contact lenses available in Malaysia include daily disposables, monthly/extended-wear lenses, toric lenses for astigmatism, and multifocal/bifocal lenses for presbyopia. Coloured lenses also offer an option for those who wish to change or enhance their eye colour.
Selecting the ideal contact lenses in Malaysia involves exploring personal preferences, lifestyle considerations, and eye health priorities. This guide will walk you through the key considerations, empowering you to make an informed decision that meets your vision correction needs and enhances your overall comfort and eye health.
1. Types of Contact Lenses
You can find a variety of contact lenses in Malaysia that suit different vision needs and preferences. Some common types include:
1. Daily Disposable Lenses
Daily disposable lenses are a type of contact lens designed for single use, providing a fresh and hygienic lens every day. These lenses eliminate the need for cleaning and storage, offering convenience and a lower risk of complications associated with lens care.
2. Monthly/Extended Wear Lenses
Monthly or extended-wear lenses are contact lenses typically worn continuously for a month before being replaced. They require daily cleaning and storage, providing a more cost-effective option for those seeking extended use without the daily maintenance of disposable lenses.
3. Toric Lenses
Toric lenses are a type of contact lens designed to correct astigmatism, a condition where the cornea or lens has an irregular shape, causing blurred or distorted vision. These lenses have different powers in different lens meridians to address the specific vision needs associated with astigmatism.
4. Multifocal/Bifocal Lenses
Multifocal or bifocal lenses are contact lenses designed for individuals with presbyopia, a common age-related condition causing difficulty in focusing on close objects. These lenses have multiple prescription powers in one lens, allowing users to see clearly at different distances, such as for reading and distance vision, without needing separate glasses.
5. Colored Lenses
Coloured lenses are contact lenses that can change or enhance the natural colour of the eyes. They are available for cosmetic purposes, allowing individuals to experiment with different eye colours and for vision correction with added aesthetic appeal.
2. Understand the Prescription Figure
Understanding prescription figures for contact lenses is crucial to ensure that your lenses are tailored to your specific vision needs, promoting clarity, comfort, and eye health.
| Prescription Figure | What it Represents |
|---|---|
| Sphere (Sph) | Degree of nearsightedness (-) or farsightedness (+) |
| Cylinder (Cyl) | Degree of astigmatism |
| Axis | Orientation of astigmatism |
| Addition (ADD) | Additional power for reading (multifocal lenses) |
| Base Curve (BC) | The curvature of the back surface of the lens |
| Diameter (DIA) | Width of the lens |
| Dominant | Preferred eye for near vision (presbyopia) |
Understanding your contact lens prescription involves interpreting these components. For example, if your prescription reads -2.00 for Sphere, it indicates mild nearsightedness. If there is a Cylinder value of -1.25 with an Axis of 180, it suggests astigmatism with the axis aligned horizontally.
Additionally, for multifocal lenses, the Add value indicates the strength for reading. Consult your eye care professional to interpret and ensure accurate prescription understanding.
3. Consider Your Lifestyle
Choose contact lenses that align with your lifestyle. Here is a breakdown of popular types of contact lenses and the lifestyles they suit best:
- Daily Disposable
Ideal for individuals with a busy or dynamic lifestyle, those who prefer the convenience of not cleaning and storing lenses daily, and those with sporadic or occasional contact lens use. - Monthly/Extended Wear
Suited for individuals with consistent daily routines, who prefer a cost-effective option with less frequent replacements, and those comfortable with handling lenses regularly. - Toric Lenses
Designed for individuals with astigmatism, toric lenses are suitable for those with an active lifestyle, as they provide stable and clear vision even during movement and various activities. - Multifocal/Bifocal Lenses
It is beneficial for individuals with presbyopia who want the convenience of addressing both near and far vision with a single pair of lenses, eliminating the need for switching between different eyewear. - Coloured Lenses
Suitable for individuals looking to change or enhance their eye colour for cosmetic reasons, whether for special occasions or as a regular part of their style.
4. Opt for Reputable Brands
Opting for reputable brands when choosing contact lenses is crucial for several reasons. Established brands invest significantly in research and development, ensuring their products meet rigorous quality standards. These brands often use advanced technologies and high-quality materials to promote better eye health and comfort.
Here are some brands you can consider:
1. Alcon
Catering to the entire life cycle of contact lens wearers, Alcon provides an extensive range of contact lenses, encompassing daily, monthly, coloured, and speciality lenses tailored for diverse vision conditions. Complementing its lens offerings, Alcon extends support through comprehensive services and educational materials, empowering patients to make informed decisions.
2. ACUVUE
Dedicated to preserving eye health, ACUVUE stands out as one of the contact lens brands globally, with internationally recognised UV protection standards integrated into its entire product line. The brand also has developed moisture-retaining contact lenses designed to prevent irritation, prioritising prolonged and consistent eye comfort.
3. FreshKon
Offering a broad array of lenses, including both cosmetic and clear options, FreshKon addresses a wide range of visual and aesthetic preferences. Beyond lenses, the brand extends its commitment to eye care by providing a complete range of cleaning solutions, ensuring that lenses are properly maintained for enduring comfort.
5. Calculate the Cost
Consider the overall cost, including the lens type, solution, and any necessary accessories, when evaluating the expenses associated with contact lenses. Daily wear lenses, known for their affordability, are cost-effective as they require minimal maintenance, making them suitable for those seeking a wallet-friendly yet comfortable and convenient contact lens solution.
In Malaysia, the price range for contact lenses varies, typically between RM40 and RM100 or even higher. Contacts are available for purchase both online and in physical stores. Visit your nearby optical store or optometrist to explore your options.
Check out this list of optical shops to narrow down your options:
6. Follow Care Instructions
The specific care instructions for contact lenses can vary based on the type and brand. However, here are general care instructions for some common types of contact lenses:
- Daily Disposable Lenses
- Use a fresh pair each day and discard them after use.
- No cleaning or storage is required.
- Monthly/Extended Wear Lenses
- Clean and disinfect the lenses daily using a recommended solution.
- Store lenses in a clean case with fresh solution overnight.
- Replace lenses as directed by your eye care professional.
- Toric Lenses
- Follow the cleaning and storage instructions provided for monthly or extended-wear lenses.
- Ensure the lens orientation matches your prescription, as toric lenses have a specific alignment for astigmatism correction.
- Multifocal/Bifocal Lenses
- Clean and store as directed for monthly or extended-wear lenses.
- Get accustomed to the varying focal points for near and distance vision.
- Coloured Lenses
- Follow the cleaning and storage guidelines for your specific type of coloured lenses.
- Ensure proper handling to avoid damaging the colour layer.
Always adhere to the care instructions provided by your eye care professional and the lens manufacturer. Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor eye health and ensure the continued suitability of your contact lenses.
Get your contact lens solutions here:
Grab Your Complimentary Lazada Voucher 【Here】
Tons of Shopee Cashback Deals 【Here】
Disclosure: This list was compiled by the team at My Weekend Plan after extensive research and shared opinions to suggest helpful recommendations for the public. The sequence of brands is in no particular order so if you have any other great suggestions too, please email us support@myweekendplan.asia. For more information, kindly refer to our copyright, privacy & disclosure policy
