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Choosing the correct reusable contact lens involves comparing several features: wear schedule, material technology, and specific hydration systems. Two of the most frequently chosen silicone hydrogel options are Acuvue Oasys and Bausch + Lomb ULTRA.
While both are known for comfort and performance, Acuvue Oasys is typically a biweekly lens, and ULTRA is a monthly lens. Grasping this distinction, along with their unique moisture technologies, is required to select the correct fit for your eyes.
Wear Schedule and Replacement Routine
The main difference between Acuvue Oasys and ULTRA lies in their approved replacement schedules. Both lenses utilize silicone hydrogel materials and are approved for extended wear, meaning they may be worn continuously for up to six nights and seven days, subject to eye care professional approval.
Acuvue Oasys
Acuvue Oasys is designed for a biweekly (14-day) replacement schedule. This shorter replacement cycle means the lens accumulates fewer deposits over its lifetime compared to a monthly lens. This makes Oasys a good option for people who struggle with protein or lipid build-up on the lens surface. After 14 days, the lens must be discarded, regardless of how often it has been worn.
ULTRA is designed for a monthly (30-day) replacement schedule. The benefit of the monthly schedule is lower cost per lens and less frequent ordering. However, it requires a commitment to rigorous nightly cleaning to ensure the lens remains comfortable and hygienic for the full 30 days.
Technology and Hydration Systems
| Feature | Acuvue Oasys | Bausch + Lomb ULTRA |
|---|---|---|
| Replacement Schedule | Biweekly (14 days) | Monthly (30 days) |
| Material Name | Senofilcon A | Samfilcon A |
| Hydration System | Hydraclear Plus (wetting agent blended in material) | MoistureSeal® (surface retention coating) |
| Oxygen Permeability (Dk/t) | 103 | 163 |
| Best For | Consistency, environmental dryness, deposit build-up concerns | Cost savings, digital strain, longest possible wear time |
| UV Protection | Yes | No (ULTRA does not specifically list UV protection) |
Cost and Practical Considerations
The difference in wear schedule heavily influences the overall cost and the required cleaning routine. While Acuvue Oasys may have a lower box price, the monthly ULTRA lens provides better cost savings over a yearly period because you purchase fewer boxes.
The lower oxygen permeability of Oasys (103 Dk/t) compared to ULTRA (163 Dk/t) is also a practical consideration. Lower Dk/t can be perfectly adequate for daytime wear, but the higher Dk/t of ULTRA provides better performance for people who routinely wear their lenses for 16 or more hours a day, mitigating dryness and redness.
Tips for Maintaining Lens Comfort
Regardless of the brand or schedule chosen, correct cleaning and handling are mandatory for maintaining comfort and safety. You must adhere strictly to these guidelines:
- Never reuse contact lens solution. You must dump the old solution out of the case every morning and use fresh solution every night.
- Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling the lenses.
- Replace your contact lens case every three months to prevent bacteria buildup.
- Use rewetting drops as needed throughout the day, especially if you feel dry eye symptoms.
- Do not wear the lenses past their scheduled replacement date.
Making Your Decision
The decision between Acuvue Oasys and ULTRA relies on prioritizing either a shorter replacement cycle or better oxygen permeability. If you struggle with deposits or prefer the hygiene of a biweekly throwaway schedule, Acuvue Oasys is a sound choice.
If you wear lenses for long hours, spend extensive time on screens, or seek the lower cost of a monthly lens, ULTRA may be the better fit. Speaking with your eye doctor is necessary to confirm which lens provides the correct physical fit and wear schedule for your eyes.
