Contact Lens Solution

Types of Contact Lenses

Types of Contact Lenses

The two most basic types of contact lenses are soft and hard (rigid):

Soft contact lenses are made of water-absorbing, flexible, plastic. They are also referred to as hydrogels. Silicone hydrogels, the latest technology in soft contact lenses, react differently with contact lens solutions than traditional hydrogels. (OPTI-FREE® RepleniSH® is biocompatible with soft lenses, including silicone hydrogel lenses).

Hard or rigid contact lenses are made of a more rigid plastic (These lenses are also called RGP, or rigid gas permeable; more recently, just GP). OPTI-FREE® RepleniSH® is not for use with RGP lenses.

Soft contact lenses are by far more popular than RGP lenses, as they are typically more comfortable on the eye. However, soft lenses are less durable than hard lenses and must be handled more carefully.

Remember, only your eye doctor can determine the contact lens and solution combination that is right for you.