Who can wear contact lenses?

Contact lenses are increasingly popular in Switzerland thanks to their discretion, comfort and freedom of movement. But one question comes up often: who can wear contact lenses?

In most cases, contact lenses are suitable for many different profiles, provided that the fitting is correct, the parameters are accurate and the lenses match your lifestyle.

Are contact lenses suitable for everyone?

Today, contact lenses can correct most common visual problems. They are available in many designs and replacement schedules, which makes them suitable for a wide range of situations.

There are also contact lenses for occasional wearers, sports users, people looking for a discreet solution or those who want to alternate between contact lenses and glasses.

At what age can someone start wearing contact lenses?

There is no universal minimum age. In practice, many professionals consider that a child or teenager can start wearing contact lenses when they are sufficiently motivated, responsible and able to follow hygiene instructions properly.

For teenagers, starting around 11 to 12 years old is often considered, but maturity and proper handling matter more than age itself. For adults, age is usually not a limitation, including after 40 with suitable multifocal contact lenses.

Can you wear contact lenses if you have sensitive or dry eyes?

Yes, in many cases. Dry or sensitive eyes do not automatically exclude contact lens wear, but the lens type and wearing time often need to be adapted.

The options that are often best tolerated include:

daily contact lenses,
some silicone hydrogel lenses,
the use of compatible hydrating eye drops.

A good lens choice and proper follow-up can often improve comfort significantly.

When are contact lenses not recommended?

Contact lenses may be discouraged, at least temporarily, in certain situations:

in case of an eye infection or red eye,
in case of severe uncontrolled allergies,
in case of advanced dry eye,
if hygiene or lens handling is a major problem,
in case of ongoing discomfort despite trying different lenses.

In such situations, it is best to seek advice from an ophthalmologist, optometrist or contact lens specialist.

Are contact lenses only used to correct vision?

No. Contact lenses are not only used for visual correction. There are also:

cosmetic contact lenses, especially to change eye colour,
therapeutic contact lenses, sometimes used to protect the cornea or support specific medical situations,
special lenses used after certain surgeries or in particular ophthalmic cases.

Their use then depends on a specific aesthetic, medical or functional need.

Do you have to wear contact lenses every day?

Not necessarily. Some people wear their lenses every day, while others only wear them for sport, work, going out or specific occasions. Daily contact lenses are especially practical for occasional wear.

In all cases, it is important to respect the recommended wearing time and to follow a good care routine for reusable lenses.

Quick summary

Profile	Can wear contact lenses?	Comment
Myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, presbyopia	Yes, in most cases	Suitable contact lenses exist for most prescriptions
Motivated and responsible teenagers	Yes	With proper guidance and hygiene
Dry or sensitive eyes	Often yes	Choose suitable lenses and adapt wearing time
Eye infection or red eye	No, temporarily	Wait until recovery and get professional advice
Cosmetic or therapeutic need	Yes, depending on the case	Specific contact lenses are available

Frequently asked questions

Can I wear contact lenses every day?

Yes, if your lenses are suitable for your usage, if you follow hygiene rules and if you respect your specialist’s recommendations.

Is wearing contact lenses painful?

No. A well-fitted contact lens should not be painful. If you feel discomfort, redness or pain, you should remove it and ask for professional advice.

Are contact lenses reimbursed in Switzerland?

In some situations, yes. Basic insurance may contribute under specific conditions, and some supplementary insurance plans may also help. See our page about glasses and contact lens reimbursement in Switzerland.

Can you wear contact lenses with presbyopia?

Yes. There are multifocal contact lenses designed for presbyopia, provided that the fitting is correct.