A Step-by-Step Guide to Ordering Contacts Online

More consumers are buying contacts online. Exchanging a trip to a physical location for an online order can provide convenience, allowing you to browse a variety of lenses from the comfort of your home at the time you prefer. 

Purchasing online also saves time, skipping the waiting room and prescription checks. Many online retailers allow you to order contacts with just your prescription information, so reordering can be simple and quick. 

Online retailers may also be able to provide competitive pricing (especially when factoring in discounts, promotions, and the lack of sales tax in some areas) and a wider selection of contact lens brands and types, including specialty lenses that may not be readily available in local stores.

How to Order Contacts Online

Fortunately, ordering contacts online is simple. First, make sure your prescription is up to date. You will need the specific optometric measurements listed on your prescription, including your eyes’ curvature, diameter, and power. 

Contact lens prescriptions differ slightly from eyeglass prescriptions; if you are uncertain of your prescription details, it is best to check with an optometrist before ordering lenses.

Next, choose the contact lenses that best fit your needs. Daily lenses are discarded after each use and provide convenience and easier hygiene. In contrast, weekly or monthly lenses for long-term wear require greater care and can cause rare eye infections if not cleaned and stored correctly. Toric lenses are ideal for those with astigmatism, as these lenses are designed to correct the shape of the cornea. Colored lenses may also be available, with or without vision correction, allowing you to enhance or change your eye color.

Although you won’t see these in the store today, spiral diopter lenses may become available. This new technology is currently in clinical trials and has been shown to improve the vision of those over 40 more than seen with traditional contact lenses. 

Economists project strong growth in the global market for disposable contact lenses over the next decade, so the options available for ordering contact lenses will likely grow in the seasons ahead.

Once you have found the right lenses, place your order. An online retailer will prompt you to provide your prescription details, such as the base curve and diameter. Double-check that you have given accurate numbers.

Finally, choose the preferred delivery option (online retailers frequently provide both standard and expedited shipping and may also offer automatic reorders for convenience) and complete the payment process. 

Then, all that remains is to wait for the lenses to be delivered to your door.

Factors to Consider When Buying Contacts Online

While purchasing contacts online is convenient, several factors must be considered when choosing the right retailer and lenses. First, make sure to buy high-quality lenses from a reputable online store. Look for brands known for their comfort, durability, and safety features. 

Second, consider shipping times and plan to ensure your lenses arrive before your current supply depletes. 

Third, choose an online retailer with a customer service team to assist with any issues, such as prescription concerns or incorrect orders

Finally, consider whether to set up automatic reordering. Most online retailers will allow you to schedule regular shipments based on details you provide about how frequently you wear the lenses. This option can help prevent you from running out of lenses unexpectedly.

Ordering contacts online is an easy and cost-effective way to maintain an eye care routine. A little browsing from the convenience of home and a quick order can help you keep your eyes healthy, comfortable, and fashionable.

The Paste editorial staff was not involved in the creation of this content.