Contact lenses are thin, curved medical devices that are worn directly on the eye to correct vision. They redirect and focus light into a single point on the retina to make objects appear clear.

There are many different types of contact lenses, including soft, rigid, and gas-permeable models. Each type has its own pros and cons.

1. They correct vision

Contact lenses work by changing the way light enters the eye to correct your vision. They refocus the light that is entering your eye to heighten or lessen the point of focus on your retina at the back of your eye, where light is converted into electrical impulses that are sent to your brain.

For example, nearsighted people have difficulty seeing far away because the rays of light entering their eyes focus too early -- they form a focal point in front of their retina instead of directly on it. A contact lens for nearsightedness has a concave shape that diverges the light as it enters the eye to reduce the focusing power, helping the person see clearly.

Contact lenses are available in a variety of styles and materials to fit any lifestyle and budget. Soft contacts offer flexibility and comfort, while rigid gas permeable (RGP) or polymer (PMMA) hard contact lenses are more durable and may be a good option for patients who have astigmatism. Contact lens designs are continually evolving to improve vision correction and address new concerns.

2. They are comfortable

Contact lenses are designed to fit comfortably on the eye, distributing pressure across the surface rather than just onto a point. Soft, gel-like contact lens materials are typically comfortable upon insertion and most people easily adjust to wearing contacts within days. They're also safe and FDA-approved, but like any medical device they must be properly used. That means taking them out at night, cleaning them regularly and adhering to the prescribed replacement schedule.

If you're having trouble with comfort, talk to your optometrist about it. Whether it's a feeling that something is stuck in your eye or that the lenses move too much, they can help you find the right solution for you.

Before touching your contact lenses, always wash and dry your hands thoroughly. If you don't, you could transfer dirt and other pollutants to the lens and then your eyes, causing irritation and even infection. It's also important to follow the proper replacement schedule for your specific type of lenses.

3. They are easy to clean

Many people believe that contact lens are easy to clean, but that depends on what type of lenses you wear and how you care for them. The most important thing is to use fresh, proper cleaning and disinfection solutions.

Rinse and rub your lenses as recommended by your eye doctor. This has been shown to remove more debris than simply leaving the lenses in a solution or using no rub products. Make sure your hands are dry (ask your eye doctor for a recommendation of a good hand-washing soap) before handling your lenses. Always wash your hands before touching your lenses and after removing them to minimize the transfer of germs between your eyes and your fingers.

Be sure to empty and rinse your contact lens case each day and leave it open to air dry. Avoid storing your case near the toilet or in humid places where it may gain exposure to impurities and microorganisms.

4. They are affordable

The best cheap contact lenses are available online and can save you a lot of money when you buy them in bulk. Many retailers offer annual supplies at a lower price than buying one box at a time, and some even allow you to return unopened boxes if your prescription changes before you've used them all.

It's also a good idea to stick with the brand that your optometrist prescribes you for best results. Changing brands could cause problems with your vision, especially if you're switching to a lower-quality lens.

You can also save by using shopping browser extensions and daily discount websites that offer coupon codes and cash back on purchases. Some sites even let you use health savings or flexible spending accounts to pay for your contacts. Lastly, be sure to check whether your insurance covers contacts before you buy them. You can usually find contact lenses and solutions in your coverage provider's network, including 1-800 Contacts.