According to the Vision Council of America, 75 percent of Americans use some form of vision correction, with 64 percent using glasses and 11 percent using contact lenses, either exclusively or with glasses. While glasses remain more popular for vision correction, contact lenses also have multiple benefits.
Benefits of Contact Lenses
Contact lenses are relatively weightless compared to glasses. Their direct fit allows for your entire field of vision to be in focus, which is especially important when driving or playing sports. Because contact lenses are invisible, they can be worn with any outfit, with no concerns about clashing colors. This invisibility also maintains a clear view of your face for others. Finally, they won't collect perspiration or fog up.
Drawbacks of Contact Lenses
Contacts require cleaning every day--missing a cleaning can cause a serious eye infection that requires medical attention. Unlike individuals who wear glasses, those with contacts are required to see their doctor every year to get a new contact prescription. And even if you do wear contacts, you may still need glasses--for example, at night after you have removed your contacts, or if your eyes have become sore or irritated from wearing them for too long. This can double the cost of your eye care.
Benefits of Glasses
Glasses are easy to wear--simply grab them and put them on. Glasses require no sterilization, pose no risk of infection, do not cause redness or irritation, and are especially effective at treating astigmatism. With the proper medical and vision insurance, glasses are a relatively inexpensive way to treat vision problems.
Drawbacks of Glasses
The biggest drawback to wearing glasses is their obtrusiveness---glasses get fogged up in the rain, they may clash with your outfit, and they hide your face. Those who participate in sports may have a hard time wearing glasses, as they can block peripheral vision, fall off or get damaged. Your glasses may need frequent fixing or bending if you're not careful with them. Often, the cost of these repairs greatly outweighs the cost of getting a new set of contact lenses.
Similarities Between Contacts and Glasses
In general, contacts and glasses both do the same thing--correct your vision. It is important to remember that glasses and contacts both require general maintenance. It is important to talk with your doctor or health care provider to determine which choice is best for you.
