Many people are uncertain whether they should obtain contacts or glasses. It isn’t always financially feasible to obtain both contacts and glasses to meet your visual needs. Understanding the advantages and disadvantages to each type can help you to make the ideal decision for your specific needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind about the debate of contacts vs glasses.
Which Is Better? Contacts vs Glasses
Many people argue that one form of vision correction is superior to the other. However, this is simply a matter of preference. There are many considerations that may impact the ideal decision for your situation. For example, you will want to consider your own aesthetic preferences, your lifestyle, and your specific vision issues when you decide whether to use contacts or glasses. The contacts vs glasses debate depends primarily on these many different factors. Some people may prefer contacts while others may prefer glasses for their specific needs.
Glasses
Glasses come in all shapes and styles. They have many different lens types that can be implemented to substantially improve your vision and meet your needs. There are many considerations that have to be taken into account when you decide on the contacts vs glasses debate. Various lens types, such as bifocals or trifocals, can ensure the best vision for your daily life. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages that come along with using glasses on a regular basis.
Pros
Glasses tend to require far less upkeep than contacts. Though you may have to clean the lenses occasionally, you don’t have to clean them on a nightly basis. In addition, glasses tend to result in less risk to your eyes, as they don’t lead to infections as much as contacts. Glasses can serve as a protective shield that can prevent dirt and debris from entering your eyes. Some people may find that they feel far more comfortable with glasses.
There are many varieties of frames that are available to meet your appearance-related needs. Glasses don’t require replacement quite as often as contacts and you may even be able to have lenses switched out with your existing frames as your prescription changes. The right glasses will often have better UV protection than contacts. They also reduce the need to touch your eyes, which is an increasingly important component during this turbulent time.
Cons

Though there are many benefits associated with glasses, there are a few disadvantages that still need to be taken into account. For one thing, many people don’t love their appearance with glasses. This can cause people to feel self-conscious while wearing glasses. Glasses may also be rather fragile and can break easily. The weight and tension caused by some glasses may result in headaches, especially when worn daily. For incredibly active individuals, glasses can be disruptive. You will have to take care that your glasses don’t fall off while exercising. Frames of the glasses may interfere with the individual’s field of vision, especially when the frames are rather thick. Glasses can also be prone to fogging when experiencing inclement weather or temperature changes. This is amplified when an individual wears masks, which is especially common recently.
Contacts
Contact lenses adhere to the surface of the eye in order to provide clearer vision with minimal discomfort. Though these contacts used to be incredibly uncomfortable, innovations have allowed them to become far more effective. Many people choose to use contact lenses in order to provide minimal inconvenience while allowing them to see clearly. Contacts can be an extremely efficient method for correcting vision. Here are a few of the pros and cons of using contacts for your vision correction.
Pros
Contacts are often implemented due to the improved appearance that they provide. In addition, colored lenses are available. If you want to change your eye color while simultaneously improving your vision, contacts are a great option. Contacts can be used in conjunction with an active lifestyle. While playing sports, you don’t have to worry about losing or breaking your glasses. Contacts don’t have the same weight of the frames of glasses, which can prevent added pressure. Unlike glasses, contacts allow for the individual to buy them in bulk to ensure that you have them available. They need to be replaced more frequently, but are often far more convenient. Contacts tend to be less noticeable to wear throughout the day, while glasses may be a somewhat constant pressure.
Cons
Contacts can be incredibly convenient and comfortable options for correcting your vision. However, it is important to keep in mind the few issues that may be associated with wearing contacts on a regular basis. For example, when you wear contacts regularly, they sit on the surface of your eye. This can cause the eye to become more susceptible to infections or other issues. They require far more maintenance and need to be cleaned and cared for more regularly than glasses. These things can cause the eyes to dry out, as well. Some people find that contacts are difficult to apply and may have difficulty getting used to them. It is important to keep in mind that you will likely adjust to them over time and may find them to be a more convenient option. Also consider whether you have allergies. Allergy season often has an impact on your eyes.
When it comes to your vision, it is important to ensure that you make the best decision for your particular situation. Understanding the various factors in the contacts vs glasses debate can allow you to choose the best solution for you. Both glasses and contacts come with benefits and drawbacks. The decision that you make is largely based off of your own preferences and desires. Here at Wolcott Optical, we strive to provide a broad array of services to ensure the healthiest eyes possible. Whether you prefer to wear glasses or contacts, we have the ideal solution for you. To learn more about the advantages and disadvantages of contacts compared to glasses, contact our experts today!