How to Order Contact Lenses Online

Ordering contact lenses online is convenient, often cheaper than buying from your local optician, and gives you access to a wider selection of brands and prices. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure a safe and successful purchase.

Step 1: Get Your Prescription

Before ordering contact lenses online, you need a valid prescription from an eye care professional. Your prescription should include:

  • Your contact lens prescription (different from glasses)
  • Brand name or specification of recommended lenses
  • PWR / Power / Sphere - optical power of lens for each eye (measured in diopters)
  • BC / Base Curve - curvature of the lens that matches your eye (measured in mm)
  • DIA / Diameter - total width of the lens (measured in mm)
  • CYL / Cylinder and AXS / Axis (if you have astigmatism)
  • ADD (if you need multifocal/bifocal lenses)
  • Expiration date

Important: Contact lens prescriptions are different from glasses prescriptions and expire after 1-2 years depending on your country.

Step 2: Choose Your Retailer

When choosing where to buy your contact lenses, consider:

  • Verify that the retailer is authorized to sell the brands they offer
  • Compare prices across multiple retailers using Lensire
  • Check shipping times and costs
  • Look for customer reviews and ratings
  • Ensure they accept your payment methods
  • Check their return and exchange policy

Step 3: Place Your Order

When placing your order, follow these tips to ensure a smooth experience:

  • Enter your prescription details exactly as written
  • Double-check the brand and specifications before confirming
  • Order enough supply for your replacement schedule
  • Keep a copy of your prescription for your records
  • Save your order confirmation

Step 4: Receiving Your Order

When your lenses arrive:

  • Check that the boxes match your prescription
  • Verify the brand and specifications
  • Check the expiration dates
  • Inspect the packaging for damage
  • Contact the retailer immediately if there are any issues

Important Reminders

  • Never share contact lenses with others
  • Replace your lenses according to your schedule (daily, weekly, monthly)
  • Always have regular check-ups with your eye care professional
  • If you experience discomfort, remove your lenses immediately
  • Order your next supply before you run out

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Using an expired prescription - Always check the expiration date
  2. Ordering wrong brand - Stick to the brand your eye care professional recommended
  3. Ignoring shipping times - Order well in advance of running out
  4. Not comparing prices - Use Lensire to find the best deals
  5. Forgetting to check return policies - Ensure you can return or exchange if needed

Buying for the First Time?

If you've never worn contact lenses before, you'll need:

  • A contact lens fitting appointment with an eye care professional
  • Training on how to insert, remove, and care for your lenses
  • A follow-up appointment to ensure the lenses fit properly

Your eye care professional can provide a prescription after fitting and recommend the best lens type for your needs and lifestyle.