Same power, different lens
The brand is part of the prescription.
Two lenses with the same power can fit and feel very differently. That is why your eye doctor writes the brand and family on your contact lens prescription.
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Contact lens brands
Why your prescription names one lens.
Most soft contacts in the US come from four companies. Each makes families of lenses for different schedules, astigmatism and reading needs.
Four big makersJ&J Vision, Alcon, Bausch + Lomb, CooperVision.
Lens familiesDaily, two-week and monthly.
Brand on the RxYou order the exact lens fit.
Switching brands
A new brand means a new fit.
If a lens is uncomfortable or hard to find, your doctor can trial a different brand and update your prescription.
Questions worth asking.
Daily or reusable?Ask which suits your routine.
Astigmatism?Ask about toric lenses.
Reading blur?Ask about multifocals.
Rebates?Ask about current offers.
The major families.
Johnson & Johnson Vision
ACUVUE OASYS and ACUVUE VITA lenses.
Alcon
DAILIES TOTAL1, PRECISION1 and TOTAL30.
Bausch + Lomb and CooperVision
INFUSE and ULTRA; Biofinity, MyDay and clariti.
Your rights
You can buy where you like.
Federal rules say your eye doctor must give you a copy of your contact lens prescription after the fitting, and it is usually valid for at least one year.
Ordering your brand.
Order the exact lens on your prescription.
Keep exploring.
Get fit for the right brand.
Search near you for a contact lens fitting, then order the exact lens on your prescription.
Fast answers.
Can I switch to a cheaper brand on my own?
No. Sellers must fill the lens on your prescription. Ask your doctor to fit a different brand.
Why does my prescription expire?
Eyes change. Under the FTC rule most prescriptions last at least one year.
Are store-brand lenses different?
Some are made by a major manufacturer under another name. Your prescription must list both.
Do I need a fitting for colored lenses?
Yes. All contact lenses, even cosmetic ones, need a prescription.
Sources.
This page is for general education and is not medical advice. Contact lenses require a valid prescription from an eye doctor. Brand names are trademarks of their owners.
