“Can contact lenses protect my eyes from the light of my computer screen?”

Some of the newer brands of contact lenses offer  UV protection for the small amount of ultraviolet light that emanates from computers and digital devices. Remember to always wear sunglasses for protection from the sun which has far more UV light.

No

There are two sources of light that are emitted from screens, blue light and glare. Blue light can cause disruptions to the circadian rhythm, blurry vision, difficulty focusing, irritated/dry eyes, headaches, neck/back pain, etc. Glare can cause obstruct the vision and cause squinting.
Most commonly discomfort is felt after two or more hours in front of a digital screen, characterized by tiredness, dryness, and redness. Extended exposure to bright light, screen glare and longer periods of device use can contribute to varying degrees of physical discomfort, and may also contribute to productivity loss, sluggishness and stress.

CooperVision® Biofinity Energys™ contact lenses are designed for all-day wear, helping people’s eyes better adapt so they can seamlessly and continuously shift focus between digital devices and offline activities. Biofinity Energys is the only lens in the United States that will help to protect the eyes against light from the screen. Visit your eyecare professional to explore additional options for screen protection such as lenses with blue light and glare.

Some contact lenses have a UV filter. However, this does not protect you from the harmful blue light from the screens. I have patients who wear “blue light” glasses over the contacts to protect themselves.

Although some contact lenses may have ultra-violet light protection and adaptive light technology, it won't replace either sunglasses for outdoor protection or blue light protection from the computer screen.

Dr. Lior Koppel

No, although some contact lenses have UV filters, they do not protect your eyes against the potential harmful blue-violet UV rays. It's recommended you get a pair of specs that have the antireflection coating that gives you that added benefit.

I would recommend you check with your local optometrist! There have been new contact lenses released in the past year that specifically address comfort with the use of electronic devices!

Thanks!

Yes, if the lenses have a blue filter in them.

Sincerely,

Duane M. Bryant, M.D., M.S.

Blueblocking technology is available in glasses currently, but not in contact lenses. I am sure it will be an option in the future.

No they won’t. You need to wear glasses or contacts if you can’t see well. You should look away from the computer screen frequently, have a filter, or even use dry eye treatment.