Using Contact Lenses & Potential Risks | Dr. Jeff Goldberg & Dr. Andrew Huberman

Contact lenses offer a distinct advantage over glasses by correcting higher-order corneal aberrations, often resulting in superior visual quality for the wearer. While these polymer gel lenses alter tear dynamics and reduce oxygen diffusion to the eye's surface, most younger individuals possess sufficient physiological reserves to tolerate them without issue. However, aging typically decreases tear film reserve, making lenses less tolerable over time. Maintaining strict hygiene is critical, as trapped bacteria or fungi can cause devastating corneal infections and permanent scarring. Utilizing daily disposable lenses significantly mitigates these risks compared to two-week or four-week varieties. Furthermore, sleeping in lenses is discouraged because the closed-eyelid environment creates a low-oxygen state that favors the growth of infectious, anaerobic bacteria. Ultimately, while contacts are a safe and effective tool for vision correction, users must remain attentive to their eye's tolerance and adhere to recommended cleaning protocols to preserve long-term ocular health.