Medically reviewed by Sharon Copeland on 9 July 2021
Air Optix Aqua by Alcon & Ciba Vision and Biofinity by CooperVision are monthly contact lenses made from a silicone hydrogel material. Both these silicone hydrogel contact lenses can be worn as extended wear lenses for up to 6 nights and 7 days, if approved by your optician.
You can also get Air Optix Aqua Multifocal and Air Optix for Astigmatism as well as Biofinity Toric and Biofinity Multifocal.
Want to know the differences? Take a look at our comparison table below.
Air Optix Aqua | Biofinity | |
---|---|---|
Manufacturer | Alcon & Ciba Vision | CooperVision |
Prescription parameters | ||
Replacement Schedule | Monthly | Monthly |
Wearing Details | Daily wear or extended wear for up to 6 consecutive nights | Daily wear or extended wear for up to 6 consecutive days and 7 nights |
Sphere/ Powers | -/+6.00D to -8.00D in 0.25 steps -8.50D to -10.00D in 0.5 steps | -12.00D to +8.00D (in 0.5 steps after +/-6.00D) |
Base Curves (B.C) | 8.6mm | 8.6mm |
Diameters (Dia) | 14.2mm | 14.0mm |
Lens Material | Silicone hydrogel (Lotrafilcon B) | Silicone hydrogel (Comfilcon A) |
Lens Design | Aspherical | Aspherical |
Wetting Agents | Yes -PVP -PEG | None |
% of Water | 33% | 48% |
Center Thickness | 0.08mm | 0.08mm |
Oxygen Permeability | 138 Dk/t | 160 Dk/t |
Benefits & Features | ||
Special Features |
|
|
UV Blocking | No | No |
Visibility Tint | Yes Light Blue (VISITINT) | Yes |
Inside-out Mark | No | No |
Packaging and Pricing | ||
Packaging Details | 3 lenses per box | 3 lenses per box |
Price per box | £12.89 | £11.80 |
Which is better Biofinity or Air Optix?
Biofinity contact lenses are suitable for patients that are looking for excellent health and comfort from a lens. These lenses can be worn daily or for up to 6 days and 7 nights continuously, in addition to being ideal for new wearers. These contact lenses can even be worn for up to 29 nights, if approved by your optician. Air Optix on the other hand can only be worn for 6 nights in a row.
Biofinity has a higher oxygen permeability than Air Optix Aqua. In addition to this, it caters for a wider prescription range with Biofinity XR and therefore could be considered a better lens for these reasons.
They both fall within a similar price range but with Biofinity also being slightly cheaper than Air Optix.
How does Biofinity compare to Air Optix?
Both Biofinty and Air Optix contact lenses are renowned for their comfort. However, they both utilise different technologies to achieve this.
Biofinity uses Aquaform Technology which delivers more moisture and oxygen to the eyes. It locks in water molecules to the contact lens for optimal hydration.
Air Optix on the other hand features SmartShield Technology which creates a hydrophilic environment that resists lipid deposits and boosts moisture.
Air Optix vs Biofinity Reviews
Not sure which lenses to go for? Take a look at what our customers have to say below:
Air Optix reviews
Mr Carlos Monzon- 28 Jun 2021
Verified
They are so good! You feel like you don't wear anything??
Denise Scott- 24 Jun 2021
See AlsoDo Contact Lenses Have An Expiration Date? Answered! - Eye ConsultantsHigh Power Prescriptions The Three Main Types of Contact LensesTypes of Contact LensesVerified
Love these lenses. So comfortable and easy to wear. My eyes tend to be dry but these lenses are perfect.
(Video) #TESTEI | Lentes Acuvue Oasys vs Biofinity vs IwearEmma Gould- 06 May 2021
Verified
Really comfortable lenses, would definitely recommend
Leanne- 02 May 2021
Verified
Stay moist all day and comfortable
Biofinity reviews
Tobi- 26 Jun 2021
Verified
(Video) Lentes de contato Air Optix AquaVery comfortable and do not dry out. My favourite brand of contracts.
Mark Cartwright- 22 Jun 2021
Verified
Best contact lenses i've ever had, I won't wear any other lenses.
Mark Cox- 09 Jun 2021
Verified
Excellent quality, very durable and extremely comfortable throughout the day.
Samantha Smith- 03 Jun 2021
(Video) AIR OPTIX AQUA #LENTES de #GRAUVerified
I waited a few weeks to properly try them out before i wrote a review. I suffered so bad with dry eyes recently which meant i couldn't have my old contact lenses in as my eyes would swell and be extremely sore and dry. After having plenty of time off contact lenses to help my eyes i bought these as recommended for dry eyes- wow they are amazing. Never had an issue with them drying my eyes out, irritating them nothing - I can't even feel them there that good. Often times i get ready for bed and remember theyre in. Superb. My new contact lenses now.
Quick links:
Biofinity vs PureVision 2
Air Optix Plus HydraGlyde vs Acuvue Oasys
Biofinity vs Ultra
FAQs
Air Optix Aqua vs Biofinity? ›
Biofinity has a higher oxygen permeability than Air Optix Aqua. In addition to this, it caters for a wider prescription range with Biofinity XR and therefore could be considered a better lens for these reasons. They both fall within a similar price range but with Biofinity also being slightly cheaper than Air Optix.
Is Biofinity or Air Optix better? ›Biofinity contacts have greater oxygen transmissibility than AIR OPTIX plus HydraGlyde contacts, which allows more oxygen to pass through to the eye. Biofinity contacts are also non-drying, so they're an ideal choice for anyone looking to be less reliant on their rewetting drops.
What is comparable to Air Optix Aqua? ›ACUVUE OASYS 1-DAY and Air Optix Aqua in detail
In fact, apart from the wearing schedule difference that one notices at first glance, there are a number of specifications that make these 2 contacts comparable. Both contacts are silicone hydrogel-based.
AquaClear contact lenses are manufactured by CooperVision. AquaClear lenses are actually CooperVision BIOFINITY contact lenses, re-branded (or privately labeled) by Vision Source. Don't be fooled: AquaClear and Biofinity are the exact same lens in every aspect relevant to your prescription.
What is the equivalent of Biofinity contacts? ›AquaClear contact lenses are identical to Biofinity contact lenses. AquaClear contact lenses are manufactured by CooperVision.
What contact lens do most doctors recommend? ›Quick Look: | |
---|---|
Best Daily Contact Lenses - | Acuvue Oasys 1-Day |
Best Monthly Contact Lenses - | Alcon TOTAL 30 |
Best Contact Lenses for Extended Wear - | Air Optix Night & Day Aqua |
Best Contact Lenses for Sensitive Eyes - | Acuvue Oasys 1-Day |
Quality of lenses
Material - You should always choose the finest material of contact lenses. Select the ones that are made with Hydrogel or Silicone Hydrogel. As these lenses have high water content and retain moisture. For color lenses, you should choose lenses made with Polymacon material.
As of September 30, 2021 all Air Optix Aqua products, including Toric (for Astigmatism) and Multifocal will be discontinued and replaced with Air Optix plus HydraGlyde®, a new lens developed by Alcon Inc. You can learn about the new product line here!
Did Air Optix Aqua get discontinued? ›Optix Aqua - 3 Pack Discontinued. Replaced WithAir Air Optix Hydraglyde - 3 Pack (6 Pack is still available) Recently, it was announced that Alcon would discontinue its Air Optix Aqua - 3 pack line. In this article, we will discuss why this lens has reached its end-of-life and what alternatives you have.
How many days can you wear Air Optix Aqua? ›AIR OPTIX ® NIGHT & DAY ® AQUA contact lenses are FDA-approved for up to 30 days and nights of continuous extended wear.
Why is Biofinity so expensive? ›
Yes, Biofinity toric and Biofinity XR toric lenses cost more than regular soft contact lenses. This is true for all brands of toric contact lenses. There are two reasons for the increased cost: Toric lenses have a more complex design and are more difficult to manufacture.
Is Biofinity good for dry eyes? ›Suitable for monthly wear, or as extended wear lenses (if approved for you, by your optician), Biofinity Multifocal lenses are ideal for dry eyes.
Is Biofinity a good contact brand? ›Comfort is a top priority for the vast majority of contact lens wearers, so ACUVUE OASYS and Biofinity are both ideal brands for anyone who wears contact lenses. Your choice will boil down to a few factors. According to ACUVUE, the ACUVUE OASYS is the most prescribed contact lens brand for new wearers.
Is Biofinity the same as Aquafinity? ›Aquafinity and Biofinity contact lenses are identical in every way except for the name and box. Description: Mediflex® Aquafinity contact lenses are manufactured by CooperVision. Aquafinity are sold under a variety of labels including Biofinity.
Are Biofinity contacts monthlies? ›Yes, Biofinity® contacts are monthly lenses.
Is Biofinity good for astigmatism? ›Biofinity Toric contact lenses are designed to correct astigmatism and made from a unique, naturally water-loving material that helps them stay moist. Biofinity lens material is highly breathable, which allows greater levels of oxygen to freely flow through the lens, and helps keep your eyes clear, white, and healthy.
What prescription is too high for contacts? ›The highest level of corrective power for monthly soft contact lenses is about -12 Dioptres (bear in mind that the average prescription for short sighted people is -2.00 Dioptres), and is available from both Purevision 2HD and Biofinity.
Which contact lens is better for eyes? ›Silicone hydrogel lenses are made of an advanced type of soft contact lens material that allows more oxygen to pass through the lens and reach the front surface of the eye. Silicone hydrogel contact lenses are now the most popular type of contact lenses.
What contact lenses are good for astigmatism and myopia? ›Toric contact lenses are often the best choice for contact lens wearers with an astigmatism, because they're specifically designed to address the problem. The special shape of a toric lens creates different refractive, or focusing, powers that can help correct either a corneal or a lenticular astigmatism.
Do brands matter with contact lenses? ›Different brands of contact lenses are made from different materials, and just because another brand has a similar base curve and diameter does not mean it will fit the same. Wearing the exact brand that you have been prescribed will help prevent medical problems and allergic reactions to the different materials used.
What is the most common contact lens? ›
Soft contact lenses are the most common lens material worn.
Are Air Optix Aqua and HydraGlyde the same? ›This is because these two brands of contact lenses are the same material and same size. The only difference is the new wetting agent (called HydraGlyde). If you currently wear Air Optix Aqua for Astigmatism, or Air Optix Aqua Multifocal, don't worry! There is a HydraGlyde version of your contacts too.
Is Air Optix with HydraGlyde better than the Aqua? ›Is it worth upgrading from Air Optix Aqua to Air Optix plus HydraGlyde? The lens designs are identical but Air Optix plus Hydraglyde covers a wider power range and features 2 additional technologies: SmartShield and HydraGlyde, promising longer lasting hydration and improved deposit resistance.
Can you wear Air Optix Aqua overnight? ›AIR OPTIX ® NIGHT & DAY ® AQUA contact lenses are designed to be worn continuously, even while napping and sleeping, as determined by your eye care professional. The lenses are FDA-approved for daily wear and extended wear for up to 30 nights.
Can I shower with Air Optix contacts? ›Showering in your contact lenses increases your risk of infection because the lens can trap the acanthamoeba in your eye. The FDA and the AOA recommend that you do not expose your contact lenses to any water to avoid contracting this terrible infection.
How often do you change Air Optix Aqua contacts? ›You can wear AIR OPTIX® plus HydraGlyde® contact lenses comfortably from Day 1 to Day 30††. And you only need to replace them once a month. Based on clinical studies with AIR OPTIX® AQUA contact lenses.
Are Air Optix Aqua soft contact lenses? ›Are Air Optix Aqua soft contact lenses? Yes, Air Optix AQUA are soft disposable contacts, made from silicone hydrogel, and featuring SmartShield® Technology that creates an ultra-thin protective layer to help shield the lenses from irritating deposits.
Can I sleep in air Optix for astigmatism? ›You can wear Air Optix for Astigmatism for up to 30 days, though each lens needs to be removed and cleaned overnight. It is possible to sleep while wearing Air Optix for Astigmatism for up to 6 nights, but you must have this approved by your optician before doing so.
How long do air Optix for astigmatism last? ›Air Optix Astigmatism are a monthly disposable lens and so are designed to be replaced at the end of a 30 day period of continuous use (requires removal for overnight periods).
Can I sleep in Air Optix HydraGlyde for astigmatism? ›Can You Sleep in Air Optix HydraGlyde? You can also sleep in Air Optix HydraGlyde contact lenses for up to 6 nights, but you will need to confirm with your optician first to make sure this is appropriate.
What is the new name of Biofinity? ›
Product | Delivery Time |
---|---|
Contact Lenses Except Acuvue (J&J) | 5-8 Working Days |
Biofinity XR Toric : Processing Powers | 45-60 days from order date |
All Acuvue (J&J) Products | 6-8 Working Days |
Contact Lens Solution | 3-4 Working Days |
Can I sleep in my contacts? It is not recommended to sleep in your contacts unless you have been prescribed lenses that are specifically designed for this purpose. For example, Biofinity contact lenses have been approved for up to 6 nights/7 days of extended wear.
How long does a 6 pack of Biofinity contacts last? ›This pricing information is updated daily. How long does a box of Biofinity contacts last? 1 box of Biofinity contacts (6 lenses, a 6-month supply) will last you 6 month(s).
What are the side effects of Biofinity contacts? ›ADVERSE EFFECTS:
The patient should be informed that the following problems may occur: • Eyes stinging, burning, or itching (irritation), or other eye pain. Comfort is less than when the lens was first placed on the eye. Feeling that something is in the eye such as a foreign body or a scratched area.
Toric contact lenses are best for astigmatism patients, as they are specially designed to correct the refractive error that is caused by having an irregularly shaped cornea.
How long do Biofinity lenses last? ›Biofinity® contacts are suitable for your patients that are looking for excellent ocular health and comfort from a lens they can wear daily or for up to seven days in a row.
Is Biofinity hard or soft? ›Biofinity is a monthly disposable soft silicone hydrogel contact lens made by Cooper Vision. Biofinity lenses are FDA approved for either daily wear or extended wear use up to six nights/seven days.
What is the best Aqua Affinity? ›The maximum level for the Aqua Affinity enchantment is Level 1. This means that you can only enchant an item with up to Aqua Affinity I, and nothing higher for this enchantment.
Are Biofinity contacts more expensive? ›Are Biofinity Toric lenses more expensive than regular soft lenses? Biofinity Toric and Biofinity Toric XR contact lenses cost more than regular soft lenses. This is because they are designed to correct astigmatism and therefore feature a more complex lens design which is harder to manufacture.
Are monthly or daily contacts better? ›While daily contacts may be more suitable for some people, they're not “better” than monthly contacts. Sometimes they're seen as a safer choice because there's no day-to-day build-up of natural deposits, but again, that doesn't necessarily make them better.
How much are biofinity contacts without insurance? ›
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Extended-Wear Brands.
Due to the irregular curvature of the corneas, people with astigmatism cannot use traditional spherical soft contact lenses to correct their vision, as contact lenses tend to rotate slightly with each blink. Spherical lenses on astigmatic eyes would thus shift in an out of focus each time the user blinks.
Are daily or monthly contacts better for astigmatism? ›For people with astigmatism or who need multifocal lenses, a monthly may be the only way for you to get the level of vision correction you need. If your eyes are sensitive, you might prefer daily contacts.
What happens when you wear regular contacts with astigmatism? ›Q: Can you wear regular contact lenses if you have astigmatism? A: No, if you have astigmatism, it's essential that you wear specialized contact lenses because your condition can worsen if not. Regular contact lenses do not cover your cornea's entirety, which will impair your ability to see even further.
What contacts are comparable to Air Optix? ›If comfort is your top priority when choosing contact lenses, then you can't go wrong with either AIR OPTIX NIGHT & DAY AQUA or ACUVUE OASYS with HYDRACLEAR PLUS. Both brands are designed with the wearer's comfort in mind. First, consider your ideal wearing schedule.
Are Biofinity contacts good for dry eyes? ›Biofinity
The material used to create these lenses is a high-performance silicone hydrogel which contains the company's Aquaform(R) technology. The material is ideal for anyone with dry eyes because it creates a bond with the water molecules within it to retain the water.
Reasons for the Air Optix Aqua - 3 Pack Being Discontinued
However, recent improvements in technology have led to the Air Optix Aqua becoming outdated. Alcon has launched a new product, Air Optix HydraGlyde, which contains a new and innovative wetting agent that keeps contacts moist for longer periods.
Helps to promote moisture on the surface of the lens, delivering a protective layer of moisture that resists irritating deposits. The result is a contact lens that offers clear vision and consistent comfort from day 1 to day 30. Plus the monthly replacement schedule is easy to remember.
How many days can I wear Biofinity contacts? ›Biofinity® toric lenses are designed for daily wear for 30 days, which means they should be removed, cleaned and stored each night. If approved by your optician, they can also be worn continuously for 29 nights.
Why do I see better with glasses than contacts? ›Why does it happen? When you wear contact lenses there is no minimizing or maximizing the images you see. When you wear glasses, image size is being introduced into the equation. Think about it like using a magnifying glass.
Should I wear glasses or contacts more? ›
Eyeglasses offer many benefits over contact lenses. They require very little cleaning and maintenance, you don't need to touch your eyes to wear them (decreasing your risk for eye infections), and glasses are cheaper than contact lenses in the long run since they don't need to be replaced as often.