Contact lenses Ilkley
Lenses for active Wharfedale lives: walking, running and cycling.
Which type of contact lens might suit you?
The right lens depends on your prescription, your eyes and how often you want to wear them. The main types are:
| Lens type | How it works | Often suits |
|---|---|---|
| Daily disposable | A fresh pair each day, thrown away at night. No cleaning solutions. | Occasional wear, sport, and people who want the simplest routine |
| Two-weekly or monthly | Worn daily, cleaned and stored overnight, replaced on schedule | Everyday wearers happy with a cleaning routine |
| Toric | Shaped to correct astigmatism (an unevenly curved eye) | People with astigmatism |
| Multifocal | Different zones for near and distance vision | People over about 40 who need help with reading as well as distance |
Your optometrist or contact lens optician recommends lenses after examining your eyes. You don’t have to choose a type yourself before your appointment.
What happens at a contact lens fitting?
- An eye test, if you need oneA recent prescription is the starting point for a fitting.
- Measuring and checking your eyesHow your lenses need to sit, and whether your eyes are healthy for lens wear.
- Trying lensesChecking comfort, vision and fit.
- Learning to handle themPutting lenses in, taking them out, and caring for them safely.
- Your specification and aftercare planIncluding when to come back for checks.
Why do contact lenses need a specification?
Under the Opticians Act 1989, contact lenses in the UK can only be supplied against a valid specification from a registered optometrist, dispensing optician or doctor. They must be sold by, or under the supervision of, a registered practitioner. This applies to online sellers too. The profession is regulated by the General Optical Council.
Regular aftercare checks matter because a lens that feels fine can still affect the front of your eye without you noticing.
How to wear contact lenses safely
- Wash and dry your hands before touching your lenses
- Keep lenses away from water, including tap water, showers, swimming and hot tubs, unless you’ve been advised otherwise
- Don’t sleep in lenses unless they’re designed and prescribed for it
- Replace lenses and cases on the schedule you were given
- Take lenses out and get advice promptly if an eye becomes red, painful or sensitive to light, or your vision changes
A painful red eye while wearing lenses needs prompt attention. Remove the lens and see urgent eye care or call NHS 111. Don’t wait for a routine appointment.
Contact lenses for Ilkley and nearby
If you live up the valley, our contact lenses guide for Ilkley covers lenses for walking, running and cycling on the moor and in Wharfedale.
Questions people ask
Can I get contact lenses on the NHS?
Usually not in full, but if you qualify for an NHS optical voucher you can put it towards contact lenses as well as glasses (NHS).
I already wear contact lenses. Can I move my aftercare to Otley?
Yes. Bring your current lens details or specification, and your most recent prescription if you have it. Choose “Contact lenses” in the booking questionnaire and tell us you already wear them.
Can I wear contact lenses and glasses?
Yes, and most lens wearers should have an up-to-date pair of glasses too, for days when your eyes need a rest or if a lens causes irritation.