Astigmatism is a common vision condition that causes blurred vision. It occurs when the cornea is irregularly shaped, preventing light from properly focusing on the retina. This results in distorted and blurry vision at all distances. Air Optix for astigmatism is a popular brand of soft contact lenses that can help correct astigmatism and provide clear, comfortable vision.
What is Air Optix for astigmatism?
Air Optix for astigmatism is a type of soft contact lens made by Alcon. It is designed specifically to correct astigmatism. The lenses are made of a high breathability material called lotrafilcon B. This material allows optimal levels of oxygen to reach the eyes, helping the lenses stay comfortable throughout the day. Air Optix for astigmatism uses precise optics and asymmetric lens design to correct irregular corneas and provide crisp, clear vision.
Does Air Optix for astigmatism come in colors?
Yes, Air Optix for astigmatism is available in a variety of colors and designs:
- Natural shine: transparent lens that appears clear on the eye
- Brilliant blue: enhances light blue eyes
- Sapphire: brightens dark blue and green eyes
- Grey: subtle color to complement all eye colors
- Green: bold color to make brown eyes stand out
- Aqua: moderate blue-green color
These color options are designed to enhance your natural eye color or create a stylish look. However, they do not actually change your eye color – they simply tint the contact lens so your eyes appear a different shade while wearing them.
Benefits of colored contact lenses
Here are some key benefits of choosing colored Air Optix for astigmatism contact lenses:
- Cosmetic enhancement – Colors like Brilliant Blue and Sapphire can make your natural eye color more vivid and striking.
- Eye color change – Colors like Green and Grey will totally transform your eye color while you wear them.
- Confidence boost – Some people find a subtle eye color change provides a confidence boost.
- Self-expression – Colors allow you to express your individual style and personality.
- Special occasions – Colored lenses can be fun for holidays, costumes, and events.
How do the colors work?
The colored contact lenses have transparent tinting applied in a gradual dot pattern across the surface of the lens. This dot matrix allows just enough color to shine through to visibly tint the appearance of your eyes. However, the lenses remain translucent, so they do not block light or obscure your vision. This natural look also ensures the colors look realistic on your eyes. Your own natural eye color shows through the colored lens to create a dimensional, vibrant effect.
Are the colored lenses approved for astigmatism?
Yes, all the Air Optix for Astigmatism colors provide the same vision correction and approval for astigmatism as the clear lenses. The color is just a cosmetic enhancement. The underlying design, materials, and technology of the lenses are optimized to correctly fit eyes with astigmatism and provide crisp, stable vision correction. So you can achieve clear vision while enjoying the cosmetic benefits of eye color enhancement.
Difference between toric and non-toric colored lenses
| Toric | Non-Toric |
|---|---|
| Designed specifically for astigmatism | Not suitable for astigmatism |
| Stable vision and consistent comfort | Can cause blurry vision and discomfort |
| Back surface has a toroidal (donut-shaped) curve | Back surface is spherical |
| Corrects astigmatism by aligning to the irregular corneal shape | Does not address corneal irregularities |
The key difference is that only toric contact lenses like Air Optix for Astigmatism can properly correct astigmatism. Non-toric colored lenses, even in your prescription strength, will likely result in fuzzy vision and headaches if you have astigmatism.
How to order
Air Optix for Astigmatism color contact lenses must be specially fitted by your eye doctor. Here are the steps to get color contact lenses:
- Make an appointment with your optometrist for a contact lens evaluation. This exam will verify your prescription and determine the best size and fit for your eyes.
- During the exam, ask your optometrist if Air Optix for Astigmatism color lenses are right for you. Make sure to select an approved color.
- Your optometrist will order the color contact lenses in the specifications that match your eyes and prescription.
- When the contacts arrive, your optometrist will have you try them on for fit and comfort. Make sure you can safely insert, remove, and care for the colored lenses.
- If the fit is successful, your eye doctor can now prescribe the Air Optix for Astigmatism colored contact lenses to you.
- Order your lenses through your optometrist’s office. Ask about any warranty or replacement policies in case a lens becomes damaged or lost.
Purchasing directly through your optometrist ensures proper fitting and medical oversight for the best vision and eye health with your new colored contact lenses.
Cost
The cost for Air Optix for Astigmatism color contact lenses varies depending on:
- Your individual prescription – higher corrections usually cost more.
- The color chosen – some colors may come with a surcharge.
- Add-ons like UV blocking or multifocal vision correction will increase the price.
- The fitting fees and markup applied by your optometrist’s office.
On average, you can expect to pay $20-60 for a 6-month supply of Air Optix for Astigmatism colored contact lenses. Talk to your eye doctor to get an accurate quote based on your needs.
Pros and cons of Air Optix colored contacts
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Enhance natural eye color | More expensive than clear lenses |
| Fun colored options | Require care and cleaning |
| Soft and breathable | Prescription fitting required |
| Easy to insert and remove | Can irritate sensitive eyes |
| Specifically for astigmatism | Possible risk of eye infection |
Conclusion
Air Optix for Astigmatism lenses now provide the option to correct your vision while adding a burst of color to your eyes. The toric design ensures the lenses fit properly on astigmatic eyes to deliver comfortable, stable vision correction. With routine cleaning and care, Air Optix color contacts can allow you to accessorize your eyes for a subtle or dramatic look. Consult with your optometrist to determine if these color contact lenses are suitable for your eyes and prescription needs.