Contact lenses are thin lenses placed directly on the surface of the eyes, and they are made of different types of plastic materials. The type of plastic used depends on the type of contact lens. Here are the materials used for each type of contact lens:
Soft Contact Lenses
- Soft contact lenses are made of hydrogels, which are hydrophilic plastics that allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea.
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses
- RGP contacts are made of acrylate, silicone, and fluorine, and they transmit oxygen through small, microscopic holes in the lenses.
Hybrid Contact Lenses
- Hybrid contact lenses are made of a combination of materials, with a rigid gas permeable center and a soft outer ring.
In general, contact lenses are made of high-tech polymers that allow oxygen to flow through to reach the cornea, which is necessary for eye health.