Acuvue Oasys vs. Biofinity: Which Contacts Are Best?
Tired of blurry vision and uncomfortable contacts? Choosing the right contact lenses can feel overwhelming, with so many options available. Two popular choices often top the list: Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity. Both promise clear vision and all-day comfort, but which one is the perfect fit for your eyes?
This in-depth comparison dives into the key differences between Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity. We’ll explore their materials, breathability, and features to help you make an informed decision. Understanding these aspects is crucial for your eye health and overall visual experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned contact lens wearer or just starting out, this guide will provide valuable insights. We’ll compare Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity across various factors, from moisture content to UV protection. Get ready to discover which lens aligns best with your lifestyle and vision needs.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | Acuvue Oasys | Biofinity |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Senofilcon A | Comfilcon A |
| Water Content | 38% | 48% |
| Oxygen Transmissibility (Dk/t) | 121 | 160 |
| UV Protection | Yes (Class 1) | Yes |
| Wearing Schedule | Daily or Extended Wear (Consult with eye doctor) | Daily or Extended Wear (Consult with eye doctor) |
| Replacement Schedule | Bi-weekly | Monthly |
| Surface Treatment | Hydraclear Plus Technology | Aquaform Technology |
| Center Thickness | 0.085 mm | 0.085 mm |
| Diameter | 14.0 mm | 14.0 mm |
| Base Curve | 8.4, 8.8 | 8.6 |
| Handling Tint | Yes | Yes |
| Visibility Tint | Light Blue | Light Blue |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Material
- Acuvue Oasys: Made from Senofilcon A, a silicone hydrogel material. Known for its high breathability and excellent comfort, but can be slightly more prone to deposits.
- Biofinity: Crafted from Comfilcon A, also a silicone hydrogel. Offers a balance of breathability and hydration. The material design may offer enhanced wettability.
- Winner: Tie
Oxygen Permeability (Dk/t)
- Acuvue Oasys: Has a Dk/t value that allows good oxygen transmission to the cornea, contributing to eye health, but may not be the highest.
- Biofinity: Provides a Dk/t value that is generally considered higher than Acuvue Oasys, thus offering potentially better oxygen flow to the eye.
- Winner: biofinity
Water Content
- Acuvue Oasys: Contains 38% water content, which helps with initial comfort but may lead to dehydration over the course of the day in some wearers.
- Biofinity: Has 48% water content, which can contribute to better hydration and comfort, potentially reducing dryness.
- Winner: biofinity
UV Protection
- Acuvue Oasys: Offers Class 1 UV protection, blocking over 99% of UVB and 96% of UVA rays, providing significant protection from the sun.
- Biofinity: Does not have inherent UV protection. Requires sunglasses for sun protection.
- Winner: acuvue oasys
Comfort
- Acuvue Oasys: Many users report excellent comfort, especially initially, due to the smooth lens surface and material. Some may experience dryness later in the day.
- Biofinity: Known for good comfort, with some users experiencing consistent comfort throughout the day due to the material and water content.
- Winner: Tie
Handling & Fit
- Acuvue Oasys: Generally considered easy to handle and fit, with a smooth surface. Fitting is usually straightforward for eye care professionals.
- Biofinity: Also easy to handle, and fit. Fitting may vary slightly depending on individual eye shape.
- Winner: Tie
Cost
- Acuvue Oasys: Typically priced in the mid-range for silicone hydrogel lenses.
- Biofinity: Generally positioned at a similar price point to Acuvue Oasys, sometimes slightly more affordable.
- Winner: Tie
Deposit Resistance
- Acuvue Oasys: While comfortable, may be slightly more prone to protein deposits. Requires good cleaning and care.
- Biofinity: Designed to resist deposit build-up, potentially leading to clearer vision and better comfort over time.
- Winner: biofinity
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Comfort (Dry Eyes) | Acuvue Oasys |
| Oxygen Permeability | Biofinity |
| UV Protection | Tie |
| Replacement Schedule Preference (bi-weekly) | Acuvue Oasys |
| Replacement Schedule Preference (monthly) | Biofinity |
What They Have in Common
- Uv Protection: Both Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity contact lenses provide protection against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, helping to shield your eyes from the sun’s damaging effects. This is a crucial feature for maintaining long-term eye health.
- Daily and Extended Wear Options: Both brands offer the flexibility of daily wear, where you remove the lenses each night, as well as the option for extended wear, where you can wear them continuously for a specified period (always consult with your eye doctor).
- Visibility Tint: Both lenses include a light blue visibility tint to help with handling and insertion/removal, making them easier to see and manipulate.
- Material Composition: Both lenses are made from advanced materials designed for comfort and oxygen permeability, though the specific materials (Senofilcon A and Comfilcon A) differ.
- Designed for Comfort: Both brands are designed with technologies that aim to maintain moisture and comfort throughout the day, ensuring a comfortable wearing experience.
Acuvue Oasys Vs Biofinity Buying Guide
Comfort and Hydration
Both Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity offer excellent comfort, but they approach hydration differently. Acuvue Oasys utilizes Hydraclear Plus technology, which embeds a wetting agent within the lens material, aiming to keep eyes moist throughout the day. Biofinity, on the other hand, employs Aquaform technology, a unique material that naturally attracts and binds water, resulting in a naturally hydrated lens. This design promotes breathability and allows for a comfortable experience. Acuvue Oasys may provide a slightly smoother initial feel, while Biofinity often excels in long-term comfort for many users. Consider your individual needs and preferences when deciding.
Material and Breathability
The materials used in contact lenses significantly impact their performance. Acuvue Oasys is made from senofilcon A, a silicone hydrogel material known for its breathability and UV protection. This allows a greater amount of oxygen to reach the cornea, supporting eye health. Biofinity uses comfilcon A, also a silicone hydrogel, but with a different molecular structure that allows for high oxygen permeability while maintaining a soft and flexible lens. Both lenses are designed for extended wear, though always consult your eye doctor. Choosing between the two will depend on individual eye needs.
Vision Correction Capabilities
Both Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity offer correction for nearsightedness and farsightedness. Acuvue Oasys also provides a toric lens option for astigmatism, as well as a multifocal option for presbyopia. Biofinity also has toric and multifocal lens options, catering to a wide range of vision needs. The availability of various parameters, such as sphere power, cylinder power, axis, and add power, allows for customized fittings. Consult your eye doctor for a proper fitting and to determine which lens best suits your specific vision correction requirements and lifestyle.
UV Protection
Acuvue Oasys is known for its superior UV protection, blocking a significant amount of both UVA and UVB rays. This is a crucial advantage for protecting your eyes from sun damage. Biofinity lenses do offer some UV protection, but the level is generally lower than that of Acuvue Oasys. While contact lenses should not replace sunglasses, the added UV protection provides an extra layer of defense against the harmful effects of the sun. Consider the importance of UV protection when making your choice, particularly if you spend a lot of time outdoors.
Price and Availability
The price of contact lenses can vary depending on the retailer, the type of lens, and any available promotions. Generally, Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity are comparably priced. However, it’s always a good idea to shop around and compare prices from different vendors, including online retailers and your eye doctor’s office. Availability is typically not an issue, as both brands are widely available. Consider the cost per lens and any potential long-term savings when making your decision. Check with your insurance provider for potential coverage.
Overall Performance and User Reviews
Both Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity receive positive user reviews. Acuvue Oasys is often praised for its initial comfort and suitability for those with dry eyes. Biofinity is frequently lauded for its breathability and all-day wear comfort. User experiences can vary, and it’s essential to consider individual needs. Before making a final decision, it’s beneficial to read reviews and gather information from trusted sources. Consulting with your eye doctor will help you determine the best option to fit your specific vision needs and lifestyle.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy Acuvue Oasys If…
- You prioritize exceptional comfort, especially in dry environments.
- You prefer a bi-weekly replacement schedule.
- You are looking for a lens with Hydraclear Plus technology for enhanced moisture retention.
- You value Class 1 UV protection.
Buy Biofinity If…
- You prefer a monthly replacement schedule.
- You are looking for a lens with Aquaform Technology for natural wettability.
- You value high oxygen permeability.
- You are looking for a lens that is well-suited for extended wear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which lens is better for dry eyes?
Both lenses address dry eye concerns, but Acuvue Oasys is often preferred. Its Hydraclear Plus technology incorporates a wetting agent within the lens, specifically designed to keep eyes moist. Biofinity’s Aquaform technology also helps with hydration, but Acuvue Oasys’s specific design targets dry eye relief more directly. It is important to consult your eye doctor to determine which lens suits your specific needs and eye condition.
Can I wear these lenses overnight?
Both Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity are approved for extended wear, meaning you *may* be able to wear them overnight. However, it is imperative to consult your eye doctor first. They can assess your individual eye health and determine whether extended wear is safe and appropriate for you. Improper overnight wear can increase the risk of eye infections and other complications. Always follow your doctor’s recommendations.
Are these lenses good for astigmatism?
Yes, both Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity offer toric lens options designed to correct astigmatism. These lenses have a specific design to provide clear vision for those with an irregularly shaped cornea. The toric lenses from both brands come in a range of parameters to fit various degrees of astigmatism. Your eye doctor will measure your astigmatism and prescribe the appropriate lens for you.
What material are these lenses made of?
Acuvue Oasys is made from senofilcon A, a silicone hydrogel material. Biofinity is made from comfilcon A, also a silicone hydrogel. Both materials offer high oxygen permeability, allowing more oxygen to reach the cornea, promoting eye health. Silicone hydrogel lenses are generally considered more breathable and comfortable than older hydrogel lenses. The key difference lies in the specific molecular structure of each material.
How often do I need to replace these lenses?
Both Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity are typically designed for monthly replacement. This means you should replace the lenses with a fresh pair every month. However, always follow the specific replacement schedule recommended by your eye doctor. Proper replacement is crucial for maintaining good eye health and preventing the buildup of deposits on the lens. Adhering to the schedule helps maintain optimal vision and comfort.
Are these lenses available in multifocal options?
Yes, both Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity offer multifocal lens options for people with presbyopia, a condition that causes difficulty seeing close objects. These lenses have multiple zones of vision correction to help you see clearly at various distances. Your eye doctor will determine the appropriate add power needed for your multifocal lenses. This will improve vision at different distances.
Where can I buy these lenses?
Both Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity lenses are widely available. You can purchase them from your eye doctor’s office, online retailers, and some optical stores. Ensure you have a valid prescription before purchasing and always buy from reputable sources to guarantee the authenticity and quality of the lenses. It’s essential to follow your eye doctor’s recommendations and to obtain the correct lens type and parameters.
Final Verdict
Both Acuvue Oasys and Biofinity are excellent choices, offering comfort and clear vision. Acuvue Oasys often excels in initial comfort and UV protection, making it a strong contender, particularly for those with dry eyes. Biofinity shines with its breathability and all-day wear comfort. Both have toric and multifocal options. The best choice depends on individual needs and preferences.
Winner: Tie