A Guide to Choosing Contact Lenses in Singapore

If you are thinking of switching from glasses to contact lenses, this guide covers the main lens types, what a fitting involves, and the Singapore rules on where you can buy them.

Contact Lenses Are Regulated Medical Devices

In Singapore, contact lenses are medical devices. The Ministry of Health (MOH) states that only registered optometrists and contact lens practice opticians may prescribe, supply and dispense them, and that companies cannot sell contact lenses directly to consumers, including online. The Health Sciences Authority (HSA) treats all types as medical devices, including coloured and cosmetic lenses without power, and lenses must be registered with HSA before they are sold.

This affects how you buy, so it is worth knowing before you start comparing prices.

Understanding the Types of Contact Lenses

Contact lenses differ in material, use and replacement schedule. The right choice depends on your eyes, your prescription and your lifestyle. Common types include:

• Soft contact lenses: The most popular type, known for comfort and flexibility. They come in daily disposable, two-weekly and monthly replacement options.
• Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses: Made from a firmer material that lets more oxygen reach the cornea. They are sometimes used for astigmatism or for people who need multifocal lenses.
• Extended wear lenses: Designed to be worn overnight for a period set by your eye care professional. Overnight wear raises the risk of eye infection, so follow the wearing schedule you are given.
• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses: Worn overnight to reshape the cornea temporarily so you can see clearly during the day without lenses. They need specialist fitting and regular follow-ups.
• Coloured lenses: These change or enhance eye colour. Even without power, they need a proper fitting because a poorly fitting lens can damage the eye.

Getting the Right Fit

An ill-fitting lens can cause discomfort, blurry vision or eye infections. A fitting includes an eye examination and measurements of the shape of your cornea, so the lens sits properly on your eye. Your prescription for glasses is not enough, because contact lens prescriptions include details such as the base curve and diameter, and the power can differ from your glasses.

Major manufacturers include Alcon, Bausch + Lomb, CooperVision and Johnson & Johnson (Acuvue). Your optometrist will recommend a brand and lens based on your eyes, not the other way round.

Knowing Your Prescription

If you are new to contact lenses, book an appointment with a registered optometrist for a comprehensive eye exam and fitting. If you already wear lenses, get a check-up regularly, as your prescription and the health of your eyes can change over time. Keep a copy of your contact lens specification so you can confirm you are getting the same lens when you reorder.

A Note on Buying Lenses Online

Many overseas websites advertise cheap contact lenses, but selling contact lenses directly to consumers in Singapore, including online, is not allowed under MOH's rules. HSA also takes action against online listings for unregistered lenses. The Singapore Optometric Association advises against buying lenses online or from unreliable sources, because they may be poor quality, counterfeit or unregistered, which puts your eyes at risk.

Buy from a registered optometrist or optical shop with a qualified practitioner, and ask them to confirm the brand and that the product is registered.

Considering Affordability

Prices differ between practices and depend on the lens type, replacement schedule and brand. To manage cost:

• Ask for the price per box and the cost per month, not only per box.
• Compare daily disposables with monthly lenses based on how often you wear them. Occasional wearers often find daily lenses practical, while daily wearers may save with monthly lenses and proper care.
• Ask whether the fitting fee and follow-up visits are included.

Do not trade safety for a lower price. Authentic, registered lenses and a proper fitting matter more for your eye health.

Wearing and Care

Follow the replacement schedule, wash your hands before handling lenses, and never sleep in lenses that are not designed for it. Do not rinse or store lenses in tap water, and see an eye care professional if you have redness, pain, discharge or blurred vision.

Wrapping Up

Start with an eye exam and a proper fitting, choose a lens type that suits your lifestyle, and buy from a qualified practitioner. Check up regularly so your lenses and prescription stay suitable for your eyes.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult with an optometrist or eye care professional for personalized recommendations.