Top 10 Best Contact Lenses for Overnight Wear

Contact lenses have seen a significant surge in popularity over the last decade. Approximately 45 million people in the US now rely on them for flexibility and convenience. Unfortunately, some people tend to fall asleep with their contact lenses, which can make their eyes red, irritated, blurry, and sometimes infected.

A study showed that the risk of getting ulcerative keratitis, an inflammation of the cornea, is twelve times higher in individuals incorrectly using daily wear lenses for overnight contact lenses. Another research finding indicated that approximately 30% of contact lens wearers have slept with their lenses on.

This has led to a search for lenses that offer convenience without compromising safety. Fortunately, there have been improvements in contact lens technology, with options like 'extended wear' or 'continuous wear' lenses designed for overnight use.

In this article, we will explore choices for extended-wear contact lenses, catering to those seeking the convenience of overnight contact lenses. We'll discuss factors such as the lenses' composition and adherence to FDA standards to help you make informed choices. Let's start exploring!

Understanding Extended-Wear Contact Lenses

Extended-wear contact lenses offer a convenient option for prolonged use without daily removal. Eye care professionals prescribe them for continuous wear, allowing wearers to use them for several days to weeks based on the provided prescription.

Furthermore, extended-wear lenses cater to individuals with diverse vision correction needs, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia. Eye care professionals can tailor prescriptions for corrective contact lenses for overnight use, ensuring they meet the specific requirements of each wearer.

Top 10 Best Overnight Contact Lenses

Choosing the best overnight contact lenses involves considering various factors to ensure comfort, safety, and optimal eye health. To aid you in this decision-making process, we've done thorough research and compiled a list of our top 10 options. Our evaluation takes into account key aspects such as:

• Oxygen permeability
• Comfort during extended wear
• User feedback and reviews
• Durability and quality
• Price
• Compatibility with different vision correction needs

Find the perfect overnight contact lenses for your eye care needs by exploring our curated recommendations below!

Looking for contact lenses that adapt to your busy schedule? AIR OPTIX® NIGHT & DAY® AQUA is the answer. Priced at $102.99 per box with 6 lenses, this 12-month supply, offering up to 30 nights of continuous wear, ensures convenience. With a flexible wearing schedule, free shipping, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee, it's tailored to your needs.

Pros

• Extended Wear: FDA-approved for up to 30 nights of continuous wear.
• Oxygen Permeability: Boasts the highest oxygen permeability among soft contact lenses.
• 12-Month Supply: With 2 boxes per eye, enjoy a hassle-free year of crystal-clear vision.
• Free Shipping: Your lenses are delivered to your doorstep without any additional cost.
• Torn Lens Replacement: Benefit from the added security of free torn lens replacement.

Cons

• Higher Price Point: At $102.99 per box, it may be pricier compared to some alternatives.
• Strict FDA Guidelines: While approved for extended wear, adherence to FDA guidelines is crucial for safety.

Air Optix Night & Day Aqua offers contact lens wearers an optimal blend of comfort and flexibility. Approved by the FDA for continuous wear for up to 30 nights, accommodating diverse schedules without compromising eye health.

These lenses feature Lotrafilcon A, a specific polymer with high oxygen permeability, comprising 76% of the lens material. This composition makes it well-suited for extended wear. With a Dk/t value of 175 at -3.00D, Air Optix Night & Day Aqua lenses boast superior oxygen permeability.

Air Optix Night & Day Aqua offers wearers the convenience of a monthly replacement schedule, and a box of six lenses costs around $45.74.

Pros

• Approved for up to 30 nights of continuous wear.
• Has TriComfort Technology and SmartShield Technology.
• Highest oxygen permeability among soft contact lenses.
• Convenient monthly replacement schedule.
• FDA-approved for continuous wear.
• Easily accessible through various optical retailers and online platforms.
• Can correct nearsightedness and farsightedness.

Cons

• No UV-blocking properties.
• Doesn’t have inside-out marking.

Air Optix plus HydraGlyde is an advanced extended-wear contact lens integrating SmartShield Technology and HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix. Its SmartShield Technology creates a protective layer to shield lenses from deposits, ensuring long-lasting comfort. In a clinical study, users rated these lenses 9 out of 10 for initial insertion comfort.

On the other hand, HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix retains surface moisture for up to 16 hours, making Air Optix plus HydraGlyde exceptionally comfortable. These lenses are ideal for individuals with sensitive eyes and those prone to irritation.

Air Optix plus HydraGlyde lenses offer high oxygen transmissibility (Dk/t = 138 @ -3.00D), making it suitable for extended wear lasting up to 6 consecutive nights.

Priced at $29.64 per box containing 6 lenses, Air Optix plus HydraGlyde presents a practical and comfortable solution for contact lens wearers.

Pros

• Has HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix and SmartShield Technology.
• Ideal for those with sensitive eyes.
• FDA-approved for extended wear.
• Affordable pricing
• Has an aspherical lens design, reducing spherical aberration.
• Convenient online availability.

Cons

• Overnight wear duration is only up to 6 nights.
• No UV-blocking properties.
• Doesn’t have inside-out marking.

Biofinity contact lenses offer a reliable monthly disposable option designed to provide superior comfort. These lenses, approved by the FDA for extended wear, allow continuous use for up to 6 nights and 7 days.

Using CooperVision’s Aquaform Technology, Biofinity lenses secure water, ensuring sustained comfort, while their smooth, rounded edges minimize interaction with the eyelids, enhancing overall comfort. Moreover, their Aberration Neutralizing System minimizes optical imperfections for improved vision quality.

Priced at $31.94 per box containing 6 lenses, Biofinity offers a practical and comfortable solution. Key specifications include an oxygen transmissibility of 160 Dk/t, a water content of 48%, and a lens material composition of 52% Comfilcon A. The aspherical lens design further enhances the overall performance of Biofinity contact lenses.

Pros

• FDA-approved for up to 6 nights of continuous wear.
• Smooth edges minimize eyelid interaction.
• Suitable for nearsighted and farsighted individuals.
• Great oxygen transmissibility.
• Aspherical lens design enhances performance because it reduces spherical aberration.
• Suitable for those wanting less reliance on rewetting drops.

Cons

• Box doesn’t include a wetting agent.
• Absence of an inside-out marker.
• Lacks UV-blocking capabilities.
• Limited to a maximum of 6 nights.

Manufactured by Bausch + Lomb, PureVision 2 HD lenses showcase innovative High Definition Optics. These lenses improve contrast, sharper details, and minimize glare, particularly in low-light conditions. A pack of PureVision 2 HD, containing 6 lenses, sells for $40.14 at Lens.com.

PureVision 2 HD lenses provide a dependable monthly disposable option and have received FDA approval for up to 30-day extended wear. Designed with 36% water content and an oxygen transmissibility of 130 Dk/t, these lenses prioritize eye health by ensuring ample oxygen flow.

Pros

• Innovative High Definition Optics for enhanced contrast.
• Convenient wearing schedule, FDA-approved for up to 30 days.
• Corrects spherical aberrations for optimal visual acuity.
• Reduces halos and glare, even in low light conditions.
• Ideal for individuals who spend a lot of time on digital screens.

Cons

• Some users may not like the light blue visibility tint.
• Relatively low oxygen permeability compared to other extended-wear contact lenses.
• Does not provide UV-ray protection.
• No markings for inside-out distinction.
• A box of PureVision 2 HD does not include a wetting agent.

Introduced in 2015 by Bausch+Lomb, Ultra stands as a newer lens in the market, known for its solid performance. With the manufacturer's rich 150+ year history, Bausch+Lomb is a leader in vision correction technology.

Ultra contact lenses feature exclusive MoistureSeal Technology, ensuring exceptional hydration for up to 16 hours. With a tapered edge design, this technology ensures a comfortable lens-wearing experience, especially for heavy users of digital devices. It is particularly beneficial for those experiencing digital eye strain symptoms.

Experience superior eye health with Ultra contact lenses priced at $36.64 for a box of 6 lenses. It has an impressive oxygen permeability of 163 Dk/t, making it suitable for daily wear for 30 days or continuous use for 6 nights and 7 days.

Pros

• MoistureSeal Technology for exceptional hydration.
• High oxygen transmissibility.
• Available in near- and farsighted prescriptions.
• Ideal for heavy digital device users.
• Tapered edge design minimizes friction for increased comfort.
• Extended-wear contact lenses approved by the FDA.

Cons

• Lacks UV-ray protection.
• A box of Ultra does not contain a wetting agent.

Biofinity Energys is a monthly disposable contact lens designed to alleviate eye fatigue and dryness associated with digital eye strain. With FDA approval for extended wear, users can continuously wear these lenses for up to 6 nights and 7 days, offering a convenient option for those with busy lifestyles.

The lenses feature a Digital Zone Optics Design, reducing stress on eye muscles during extended digital screen use. Moreover, their patented Aquaform Technology ensures moisture retention. All these features come at a cost of $44.54 for a pack of 6 lenses.

Made from the highly breathable silicone hydrogel material, Comfilcon A, Biofinity Energys boasts an oxygen transmissibility of 160 Dk/t for maintaining healthy eyes.

Pros

• Reduces eye strain from digital screens.
• Monthly disposable for convenience.
• FDA-approved for extended wear.
• Digital Zone Optics Design and Aquaform Technology features.
• High oxygen permeability.
• Suitable for users spending long hours on screens.

Cons

• Not suitable for continuous wear beyond 6 nights.
• Limited availability in certain prescriptions.
• The box does not contain a wetting agent.
• There is no inside-out marker.
• It does not have UV-blocking capabilities.

Ultra for Astigmatism contact lenses aim to offer clear vision and lasting comfort for individuals with astigmatism. These lenses incorporate advanced OpticAlign Design, minimizing halos and glare, ensuring stable and consistently clear vision, even in low-light conditions.

These monthly disposable contacts are FDA-approved for extended wear, offering flexibility for continuous use for 6 nights/7 days or daily wear for up to 16 hours per day. It has an oxygen permeability of 163 Dk/t and costs $48.74 per box.

Pros

• Clear and stable vision for astigmatism.
• FDA-approved for extended wear.
• Monthly disposable lenses.
• Moisture retention for up to 16 hours.

Cons

• Not suitable for overnight wear beyond 6 nights.
• Possible adaptation period for some users.
• Does not offer UV-ray protection.
• Doesn’t have inside-out marking.

Acuvue Oasys with Hydraclear Plus stands out as a widely recognized brand of contact lenses. It’s designed for 1-week extended wear and allows for up to 2-week daily wear. The FDA has approved its extended wear duration, allowing usage for up to 7 consecutive days.

These contact lenses, made with 62% Senofilcon A polymer and a water content of 38%, have a Dk/t value of 147 @ -3.00, indicating a balanced oxygen permeability. Priced at $45.24 for a 12-pack, these lenses provide a cost-effective option. For added convenience, there is also a 24-pack option available, which costs $65.24.

Furthermore, Acuvue Oasys with Hydraclear Plus offers significant UV protection, blocking more than 99% of UVB and approximately 96.1% of UVA rays. It boasts the highest level of UV protection among all brands of contact lenses.

Pros

• Inside-out marking for easy insertion.
• Ensures optimal comfort by maintaining stability in the tear film.
• Offers the most extensive UV protection among all contact lenses.
• Offers support for near- and far-sighted people.
• FDA-approved for continuous wear.
• Available through various optical retailers.
• Convenient 12-pack and 24-pack options.

Cons

• Shorter overnight wear duration.
• Higher price point.

Biofinity Multifocal, a monthly disposable lens, caters to presbyopia, enhancing vision for near, far, and intermediate distances.

Whether worn daily for 30 days or continuously for 6 nights and 7 days, these lenses ensure all-day comfort and sufficient oxygen supply. All thanks to CooperVision's Aquaform Technology and Balanced Progressive Technology for optimal comfort and vision correction.

Its smooth, rounded edges also enhance comfort and minimize interaction with eyelids. These lenses are especially beneficial for presbyopic individuals seeking an alternative to reading glasses or bifocals. Priced at $61.24 per box containing 6 lenses, Biofinity Multifocal stands as a comprehensive solution for presbyopia-related vision issues.

Pros

• Addresses presbyopia for clear vision at various distances.
• Monthly disposable lens offers flexibility in wear.
• Suitable for daily wear or continuous use for up to 6 nights.
• Oxygen transmissibility of 142 Dk/t supports ocular health.
• Smooth, rounded edges minimize discomfort during wear.

Cons

• Cost may be higher compared to standard contact lenses.
• Limited to wearers experiencing presbyopia.
• Individual responses to multifocal lenses may vary.

Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism provides a targeted solution. Acuvue's Blink Stabilized Design ensures resistance to rotation when you blink or make rapid eye movements. They are FDA-approved for overnight wear, allowing continuous use for 6 nights/7 days.

In addition to its Blink Stabilized technology, Acuvue also incorporates Hydraclear Plus Technology, prioritizing moisture and smoothness to sustain comfort. The silicone hydrogel material further enhances comfort by allowing oxygen permeation of 129 Dk/t.

For UV protection, Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism offers one of the highest UV protection ratios among toric lenses, blocking 96% of UVA and 100% of UVB rays. Priced at $36.84 per box containing 6 lenses, Acuvue presents a practical and comfortable solution for individuals with astigmatism.

Pros

• Stable vision with its Blink Stabilized Design.
• FDA-approved for overnight wear.
• Suitable for those with astigmatism.
• Provides one of the highest UV protection ratios in toric lenses.

Cons

• Requires regular replacement every two weeks.
• Tinting may affect the appearance of the lenses.
• The cost may be higher compared to some other lenses.
• Lacks inside-out marking.

Tips For Maintaining Overnight Contact Lenses

Proper care and maintenance of extended-wear contact lenses is important to ensure optimal eye health and prolonged lens durability. Follow these essential guidelines to keep your extended-wear lenses in top condition:

1. Cleanliness is Key

Begin by washing your hands thoroughly with a mild, fragrance-free soap and water. Dry them with a lint-free towel to avoid transferring any debris to the lenses.

2. Use Recommended Solutions

Clean your extended-wear contact lenses with the specific cleaning solutions recommended by your eye care professional. Avoid using water or saliva, as these can introduce harmful microorganisms to the lenses.

3. Rub and Rinse

When cleaning your lenses, gently rub them with your index finger in the palm of your hand. This helps remove protein deposits and debris. Rinse the lenses thoroughly with the recommended solution to ensure no residue remains.

4. Storage Matters

Store your extended-wear lenses in a clean and dry lens case. Fill the case with fresh disinfecting solution each time you store the lenses. Replace the case regularly, at least every three months, to minimize the risk of bacterial contamination.

5. Follow the Recommended Wearing Schedule

Adhere strictly to the wearing schedule provided by your eye care professional. Extended-wear lenses have specific durations, exceeding the recommended wearing time can heighten the risk of eye infections and even vision loss.

6. Regular Check-ups

Schedule regular eye examinations with your optometrist to monitor the health of your eyes and the condition of your extended-wear lenses. If you experience any discomfort, redness, or changes in vision, consult your eye care professional promptly.

7. Handle with Care

Be gentle when handling your extended-wear contact lenses. Avoid using sharp objects or your fingernails to remove them from your eyes, as this may damage the lenses.

8. Stay Hydrated

Ensure your eyes remain adequately hydrated by using lubricating eye drops as recommended by your eye care professional. This helps prevent dryness and discomfort associated with extended lens wear.

9. Replace as Directed

Follow the prescribed replacement schedule for your extended-wear lenses. Using lenses beyond their recommended lifespan can compromise their effectiveness and lead to discomfort.

By applying these practices in your daily routine, you can maintain the clarity and comfort of your extended-wear contact lenses while safeguarding the health of your eyes.

Final Thoughts

Each of the featured overnight contact lenses offers distinctive advantages. Air Optix Night & Day Aqua takes the lead with a remarkable 30 nights of continuous wear and the highest oxygen permeability in its category.

Meanwhile, Air Optix plus HydraGlyde stands out for its emphasis on comfort, making it an ideal choice for sensitive eyes. Its FDA-approved extended wear of up to 6 nights ensures both convenience and lasting comfort. Biofinity has earned its place as a user favorite, boasting the highest user rating on Lens.com.

For those who prioritize visual acuity, reduced glare, and enhanced contrast, PureVision 2 HD is an excellent choice. As you navigate the options for overnight contact lenses, it's always advisable to consult with eye care professionals to ensure the best fit for your unique needs and preferences.

What should I do if I accidentally fall asleep with daily wear lenses on?

According to experts, instill a few drops of saline or eye drops into your eyes. Blink until the contact lens feels normal, which may take a few minutes. Alternatively, close your eyes, place a finger on your eyelid, and check for movement. Once the lens is no longer stuck, it's safe to remove. If you encounter redness, irritation, light sensitivity, tearing, or blurred vision lasting more than a day or causing concern, promptly contact your eye care professional as it may indicate an infection.

What features should I look for when selecting overnight contact lenses?

Look for lenses with high oxygen permeability, comfortable materials, and those that meet your prescription needs. Discuss options with your eye care professional.

What steps should I take if I experience discomfort while wearing overnight contact lenses?

Remove the lenses immediately and consult your eye care professional. Discomfort could be a sign of an issue that requires attention.

Are there any lifestyle factors that may affect the suitability of overnight contact lenses for me?

Factors such as allergies, dry eyes, and environmental conditions can impact lens comfort. Discuss your lifestyle with your eye care professional to find lenses that suit your needs.