Silicone hydrogel is an organic polymer material used in contact lens manufacturing. It is now recognized as the premier high-oxygen permeable contact lens material. Combining the hydrophilicity and softness of traditional hydrogel materials with enhanCEd oxygen transmission, silicone hydrogel Contact lenses provide better protection for eye health.
The development of corneal contact lenses has seen silicone hydrogel become a major breakthrough in both materials and manufacturing technology. While traditional hydrogel lenses previously dominated the market with their excellent comfort and hydrophilic properties, they had inherent weaknesses. These included faster moisture evaporation that often led to eye dryness.
By incorporating silicone components into the traditional hydrogel base, manufacturers solved this fundamental issue. Since oxygen has extremely high solubility in silicone, oxygen permeability no longer depends purely on water content. This innovation effectively addressed the moisture evaporation problem that plagued earlier contact lens designs.
The removal process for silicone hydrogel contact lenses follows the same procedure as regular lenses. However, some wearers might find removal slightly more challenging due to the lenses' enhanced moisture retention and smoother surface. For easier removal, gently shift the lens from the cornea to the white part of your eye before pinching it with your thumb and index finger. Keeping your fingers dry increases friction for easier handling. Always avoid using fingernails which might scratch the lens or cornea.
Despite their advantages, silicone hydrogel lenses do have limitations. The material tends to attract more lipid and protein deposits over time, which can affect both visual performance and wearing comfort. This is why most silicone hydrogel lenses are designed for shorter replacement cycles - typically daily, weekly, or monthly disposal.