Thinking About Contact Lenses for the First Time? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’ve always worn glasses, the idea of trying contact lenses can feel both exciting and slightly daunting. Many people assume contact lenses are uncomfortable, difficult to manage, or simply “not for them” - but modern lenses are more comfortable, convenient, and versatile than ever before.

Whether you’re looking for more freedom when exercising, a glasses-free option for social occasions, or simply want to alternate between glasses and contact lenses, there are plenty of choices available.

At Optical Gallery, we regularly help patients across Chessington, Cheam, Twickenham, and the surrounding South West London areas find contact lenses that fit comfortably into their lifestyle and vision needs. 

In our previous blog, we looked at the differences between glasses and contact lenses if you're looking to make the switch. In this blog, will dig a little deeper into Contact Lenses and how to decide what is right for you.

Why Do People Choose Contact Lenses?

People try contact lenses for many different reasons. Some want a break from wearing glasses every day, while others enjoy the flexibility of having both options, depending on the occation.

Common reasons include:

• Sports and exercise
• Special occasions or holidays
• Convenience while travelling
• A wider field of vision
• Reducing glasses fogging in winter
• Comfort while wearing sunglasses
• Cosmetic preference
• Many patients are surprised by how natural contact lenses feel once they get used to them.

Are Contact Lenses Right for Everyone?

Most people can wear contact lenses successfully, including those with:

• Short-sightedness (myopia)
• Long-sightedness
• Astigmatism
• Age-related reading changes (presbyopia)

Even if you’ve previously been told contact lenses weren’t suitable, newer lens technology may now provide options that weren’t available before.

The best way to find out is through a professional contact lens assessment, and this is something The Optical Gallery team can help with.

What Are the Different Types of Contact Lenses?

There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. The right contact lenses depend on your prescription, eye health, lifestyle, and how often you plan to wear them.

Daily Disposable Lenses

Daily lenses are worn once and then discarded at the end of the day.

They’re often a great option for first-time wearers because:

• No cleaning routine is required
• They’re convenient and hygienic
• Ideal for occasional wear
• Great for sports, weekends, or holidays

Many people who mainly wear glasses choose daily contact lenses for flexibility.

Monthly Contact Lenses

Monthly lenses are reused for up to 30 days and cleaned each evening.

These may suit people who:

• Wear lenses most days
• Prefer a more cost-effective long-term option
• Are happy with a regular cleaning routine

Toric Lenses for Astigmatism

If you have astigmatism, specially designed toric lenses can help provide stable, clear vision.

Modern toric lenses are much more comfortable and reliable than older designs, and many patients are surprised by how well they work.

Multifocal Contact Lenses

For people who need reading glasses as well as distance correction, multifocal contact lenses can help you see clearly at multiple distances.

These are popular with patients who want more freedom from switching between glasses.

How Do You Know Which Contact Lenses Are Best?

This is where professional fitting becomes important.

At Optical Gallery, a contact lens consultation looks at much more than your glasses prescription alone. We consider:

Your Lifestyle

Do you want lenses every day or just occasionally?

Someone who spends weekends cycling or going to the gym may need something different from someone wanting lenses mainly for social events.

Your Eye Health

Dry eyes, allergies, screen use, and general eye health all influence lens choice.

Certain lenses retain moisture better than others, making them more comfortable for long hours or office-based work.

Your Prescription

Different prescriptions may work better with different lens designs and materials.

Comfort and Ease of Use

For first-time wearers, comfort and confidence matter hugely. We’ll guide you through:

• How to insert and remove lenses
• Lens hygiene and care
• Safe wearing times
• How to avoid common mistakes

Most people learn much faster than they expect.

Will Contact Lenses Feel Strange?

Initially, they can feel slightly unusual simply because your eyes aren’t used to them. However, modern soft contact lenses are designed to be extremely comfortable.

Most first-time wearers adapt very quickly - often within a few days.

Importantly, contact lenses should not be painful. If lenses feel uncomfortable, dry, or irritating, it usually means adjustments are needed to the fit or lens type.

Can You Still Wear Glasses Too?

Absolutely — and many people do.

In fact, we often recommend having both glasses and contact lenses. This gives you flexibility and ensures your eyes can rest from lenses when needed.

Many Optical Gallery patients use:

• Glasses for work or evenings
• Contact lenses for exercise or social occasions
• A mixture of both throughout the week

It’s about finding what works best for your lifestyle.

Common Concerns About Contact Lenses

“I’m worried about touching my eyes.”

This is one of the most common concerns for new wearers. With proper guidance and a little practice, most people quickly become comfortable handling lenses.

“Aren’t contact lenses difficult to maintain?”

Daily disposable lenses require very little maintenance at all, which is why they’re so popular for beginners.

“Will my eyes become dry?”

Some people experience dryness, particularly during heavy screen use or allergy season, but modern lens materials and tailored fitting can often help minimise this.

The Importance of Professional Contact Lens Fitting

Buying lenses online without proper fitting can lead to discomfort, poor vision, or even eye health problems.

A professional fitting ensures:

• The lenses fit correctly
• Your eyes remain healthy
• Your prescription is accurate
• You’re wearing lenses safely and comfortably

Regular aftercare appointments are also important to monitor eye health over time.

Thinking About Trying Contact Lenses?

If you’ve been curious about contact lenses but unsure where to start, a professional consultation can make the process simple and reassuring.

At Optical Gallery, we take time to understand your lifestyle, answer questions, and help you try lenses that genuinely suit your needs — whether you want full-time contact lenses or simply the flexibility to wear them occasionally alongside glasses.

If you’re based in Chessington, Cheam, Twickenham, or the surrounding South West London areas, our friendly team would be happy to help you explore your options.