According to the CDC, 45 million people in the U.S. wear contact lenses. It’s no surprise, then, that you can buy new lenses anywhere—even online!
In fact, buying contact lenses online has many advantages. It’s convenient, provides more options, and may save you money. That said, this method also comes with some specific risks that you shouldn’t neglect.
Want to learn how to order contact lens online? Follow these three tips to make sure you’re getting a good deal—and peace of mind!
1. Get a New Prescription
The first thing you should do is get a new contact lens prescription. Under U.S. law, you can’t buy contact lenses online without a prescription.
In most states, a contact lens prescription is good for a year. Some states allow for two-year prescriptions, so check your state’s regulations. You can get a new prescription from an optometrist or an eye doctor near me.
Keep in mind that contacts and glasses come with different prescriptions. When you go in for your exam, ask for a contact lens evaluation. Most providers will charge an extra fee for this type of evaluation.
2. Find a Reputable Retailer
With your new prescription in hand, it’s time to shop around for the best deal. Oftentimes, prices for the same brand will vary from seller to seller.
First things first: stick to the brand listed on your prescription. Different brands may offer lenses with different shapes and water content. Chances are, there’s a reason why your eye doctor prescribed a specific brand.
As for how to find a retailer, your friends and family are a good starting point. With so many contact lens wearers in the U.S, it shouldn’t be hard to find one you trust. Ask them what they do when they order contact lenses.
Doing online research is also a good way to find a reputable retailer. Look at customer reviews and sites like Better Business Bureau. That’s important because many sites are selling contacts that aren’t FDA-approved.
Finally, do some comparison shopping to save money. You can also look for coupon codes or subscription services that sell bulk contacts.
3. Complete the Order
Once you’ve found the best retailer for your needs, all that’s left is to create an order. For best results, do this as carefully as possible.
When you order contact lenses online, you need to enter all the information yourself. That includes the lens brand, correct prescription, lens diameter, and more. By double-checking these details, you can avoid shipping delays.
When your lenses arrive, ensure the packing slip matches the order receipt. Check the expiration date to figure out when you’ll need to order again.
More on How to Order Contact Lens Online
As you can see, learning how to order contact lens online isn’t too complicated. If you have the right prescription and choose a respected seller, you’re all but certain to get the right lenses for you!
Interested in learning more about the importance of eye health? Keep checking out our eyesight-related content!