Best Specialty Contact Lenses for Sensitive or Dry Eyes

If you have sensitive or dry eyes, wearing contact lenses can feel frustrating without the right solution. Many traditional contact lenses don’t provide enough moisture or oxygen, leading to dryness, irritation, redness, or discomfort by the end of the day. At Los Angeles Vision Center, specialty contact lens fittings are customized to your unique eye health, lifestyle, and visual needs. 

Why Standard Contact Lenses May Not Work for Dry or Sensitive Eyes

Dry eye symptoms often worsen with conventional soft contact lenses because they can absorb moisture from the tear film, limit oxygen flow to the eye, become unstable on the eye’s surface, and increase irritation - especially during extended wear or prolonged screen use. For patients with chronic dryness, allergies, or underlying eye conditions, specialty contact lenses are designed to address these issues and can provide significantly improved comfort, stability, and visual performance.

Scleral Contact Lenses

Scleral lenses are one of the most effective solutions for severe dry eye and sensitive eyes. Unlike traditional lenses, scleral lenses rest on the white part of the eye (the sclera) and vault over the cornea.

Benefits of scleral lenses:

• Create a fluid reservoir that continuously hydrates the eye

• Protect the cornea from irritation and environmental exposure

• Provide exceptional comfort for advanced dry eye

• Offer sharp, stable vision

Scleral lenses are often recommended for patients with chronic dry eye syndrome, corneal irregularities, or those who have struggled with other contact lenses.

Silicone Hydrogel Contact Lenses

For patients with mild to moderate dryness, silicone hydrogel lenses may provide improved comfort compared to traditional soft lenses.

Benefits include:

• Higher oxygen permeability to support eye health

• Reduced dryness during long wear times

• Improved comfort for sensitive eyes

These lenses are often paired with daily replacement schedules to minimize protein buildup and irritation.

Hybrid Contact Lenses

Hybrid lenses combine a rigid gas-permeable center with a soft outer skirt.

Benefits of hybrid lenses:

• Clear, crisp vision from the rigid center

• Enhanced comfort from the soft outer edge

• Improved stability for sensitive eyes

These lenses may be a great option for patients who need sharper vision but struggle with traditional rigid lenses.

The Importance of a Contact Lens Exam

Choosing the right contact lens for dry or sensitive eyes is not a one-size-fits-all process. A specialty contact lens exam involves a detailed evaluation of the tear film and ocular surface, precise measurements of the eye’s shape, and an assessment of any underlying dry eye conditions. Based on these findings, personalized lens recommendations are made to ensure the best possible fit. Proper fitting is essential for achieving long-term comfort, maintaining eye health, and providing clear, stable vision.

Get Personalized Solutions for Dry or Sensitive Eyes

Living with dry or sensitive eyes doesn’t mean giving up on contact lenses. With today’s advanced specialty contact lens options, many patients can enjoy comfortable, clear vision all day long. From scleral lenses to daily disposables and custom designs, the right solution can make a significant difference in your eye comfort and quality of life.

If dry or sensitive eyes are making contact lens wear uncomfortable, a customized solution may be the answer. Schedule a contact lens exam at Los Angeles Vision Center to explore specialty lens options designed to improve comfort. Visit our office in Los Angeles, California, or call (323) 934-2020 today.