Contact Lenses for Teens: What Parents Should Consider

For many teens, switching from glasses to contact lenses feels like an exciting step toward independence. As a parent, it’s natural to wonder if your child is ready. Contact lenses can offer convenience and confidence, but they also require responsibility. Here are key factors that parents should consider when deciding on contact lenses for their teens.

At Southside Eye Care, we specialize in personalized vision care, offering contact lens services for teens delivered by experienced doctors with more than 20 years of family eye care expertise.

Age and Maturity Matter

There’s no strict age requirement for wearing contact lenses, but maturity plays a big role. Teens need to understand the importance of proper hygiene; washing hands before handling lenses, following wearing schedules, and never sleeping in lenses unless specifically approved by their eye doctor. Parents should assess whether their child can consistently handle this responsibility.

Benefits Beyond Vision

For active teens, contact lenses can be more practical than glasses. They won’t slide down during sports, fog up in humidity, or break easily. Many teens also feel more confident in their appearance without glasses, which can have a positive impact on their self-esteem. For special occasions, colored or specialty lenses may also be an option, but they should only be purchased through an eye care professional.

Safety and Eye Health

Incorrect use of contact lenses can cause serious eye infections or damage to the eyes. Parents should emphasize the importance of replacing lenses on schedule and using fresh contact lens solution every time. Regular checkups are also necessary for monitoring eye health and ensuring the lenses remain the best fit for your teen’s vision needs.

Choosing the Right Type

Daily disposable contacts are often ideal for younger wearers because they reduce the risk of infection and eliminate the need for cleaning. Your eye doctor can help decide whether daily, bi-weekly, or monthly lenses are the most appropriate option for your teen’s lifestyle and prescription.

See Clearly and Confidently with Contact Lenses in Chesapeake, VA

Contact lenses can be a game-changer for teens with combined with responsibility and parental guidance. If your teen is interested, call us at 757-484-0101 to schedule an appointment with an eye care professional to explore the best options and ensure a healthy start to wearing contact lenses.