Air Optix vs. PureVision

Air Optix Aqua and PureVision are two different brands of soft contact lenses. Both brands are approved by the FDA for varying degrees of overnight wear. Both brands are marketed as one month replacement lenses.

General Differences

• The Air Optix Aqua for Astigmatism contact lens is manufactured by Ciba Vision. It is FDA approved for six nights of continuous overnight wear. The lens must be taken out overnight at least one night per week. PureVision contact lenses are manufactured by Bausch and Lomb. They are FDA approved for thirty days of continuous overnight wear.

Technical Differences

• Air Optix Aqua contact lenses are slightly smaller. They have a diameter of 14 millimeters, while PureVision contact lenses have a diameter of 14.2 millimeters. The front surface of the PureVision contact lens has an aspheric front surface. This is designed to improve visual clarity by reducing the effect of small amounts of astigmatism in the eye.

Considerations

• Air Optix Aqua and PureVision contact lenses are similar in many ways, but they are composed of different materials. One brand may work well for someone, while the other may better suit someone else. Be sure to discuss any specific questions regarding contact lenses with an optometrist or ophthalmologist.