History of Contact Lenses
Even though many people cannot imagine their life without their contact lenses today, these cosmetic, corrective or therapeutic devices have traveled a long way of development since they reached their current, so far the most advanced form. Namely, Leonardo da Vinci was the first one to start developing the idea about contact lenses. He made sketches of contact lenses in 1508.
However, real, usable models, which were rigid, were made by polish chemist Otto Wichterle and his assistant, Drahoslav Lim. The two were also the first to invent the gel which was used during the production of these lenses.
Today, we have soft contact lenses, with a gentle blue shade, making them more visible when not placed on the cornea of our eyes. Also, there are colored models which serve a purpose of aesthetically altering a person. Alternatively, there are models which protect your eyes against the harmful UV rays of the Sun.
About 2% of the world's population or, roughly, 125 million people use contact lenses today. Japan and the US are the countries with the largest number of users.
Contacts are better than spectacles since they cannot get in touch with external factors like the weather or steam. Also, these are more practical and provide a wider horizon of vision. Moreover, these devices can be used during sports and for corrective purposes, treating many vision problems effectively.
Colored Contact Lenses
Two types of contacts are colored. The first one has a slightly tinted surface which helps us locate the lenses while these are in the cleaning solution.
On the other hand, we have lenses which are completely colored, changing the natural color of the eyes. These are more effective for people with lighter eye shades. Thus, people with blue or green eyes will be capable of achieving a stronger effect with these lenses, changing their appearance.
People with darker eye colors need to use opaque colored lenses in order to change their eye color to a brighter one. However, these lenses interfere with the eyesight of the person wearing them, especially if he/she has wider pupils.
Nowadays, there is a new product on the market, being a favorite for many sports players, especially golfers and people who are into tennis. These are light filter lenses, which enhance certain colors, making them more prominent and, thereby, noticeable. These are soft lenses which can either be disposable or not, depending on your preferences.
Usually, contact lenses are safe for use, provided that you follow the instructions. However, if you happen to experience itching, irritation, vision problems or some other complications, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
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