What is astigmatism and why does it make wearing contact lenses more complicated?

Astigmatism is a very common refractive error caused by a cornea or lens with a slightly irregular shape — instead of being perfectly spherical, the cornea is more curved along one axis than another, like the surface of a rugby ball. This means light does not focus on a single point on the retina, producing blurred or distorted images both up close and at a distance.

For a long time, astigmatism could only be corrected with glasses. Conventional spherical contact lenses could not compensate for the irregular cornea because they rotated freely on the eye. Today, however, there are toric lenses — designed specifically for astigmatism — that have completely changed the situation.

What are toric contact lenses?

Toric lenses have two different curvatures depending on the axis, exactly what an eye with astigmatism needs to focus correctly. They also include a stabilisation system — weighting at the bottom, bevels or support zones — that stops them rotating on the eye when you blink. As a result, the corrective power always stays aligned with the axis of the astigmatism.

They come in two main types:

• Soft toric lenses: These are the most widely used. Comfortable, easy to fit and available as daily, two-weekly and monthly lenses. Most moderate astigmatism is corrected perfectly with them.
• Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses: These offer superior optical correction, especially for high or irregular astigmatism (such as keratoconus). They are harder to fit and require a period of adjustment, but the results can be outstanding.

Can I wear contact lenses if I have high astigmatism?

Yes, in most cases. Soft toric lenses effectively correct astigmatism of up to -2.75 or -3.00 D. For higher prescriptions, there are high-end toric lenses, or rigid lenses can be an option. In very specific cases (extremely irregular astigmatism), the optician may consider other alternatives such as hybrid or orthokeratology lenses.

Key fact: 30% of the population has some degree of astigmatism. Many do not know they can wear contact lenses comfortably.

Types of contact lenses for astigmatism: a comparison

Leading brands of toric contact lenses

At Òptica Florit we work with the leading brands in the sector:

• Acuvue Oasys for Astigmatism (Johnson & Johnson): excellent stabilisation and hydration. Available as a two-weekly lens.
• Dailies Total 1 for Astigmatism (Alcon): premium daily lens with water gradient technology. Maximum comfort.
• Clariti 1 day Toric (CooperVision): good value for money as a daily lens.
• Biofinity Toric (CooperVision): high-end monthly lens with excellent oxygen flow.
• Air Optix for Astigmatism (Alcon): a very popular monthly lens, excellent for regular wearers.

How are contact lenses for astigmatism fitted?

Fitting toric lenses requires a more careful examination than conventional spherical lenses. At Òptica Florit we follow this process:

• Full refraction: We measure your prescription with complete accuracy, including the axis of your astigmatism.
• Corneal topography: We map the exact shape of your cornea to choose the most suitable lens.
• Trial fitting: We put the lenses in and check that stabilisation is correct — that they do not rotate and the axis is properly aligned.
• Follow-up: After 15-30 days we check how the fitting and comfort are going.

The whole process usually takes one or two visits, and the result is clear, comfortable vision all day long.

Tips for wearing contact lenses with astigmatism

• Always stick to the recommended wearing time — never exceed the recommended hours.
• Use the right care solution for each type of lens.
• If your vision seems to fluctuate during the day, the lens may be rotating — check with your optician.
• Daily disposable lenses remove the risk of deposits building up, which is very helpful for sensitive astigmatism.
• Never sleep in soft toric lenses unless they are extended-wear lenses and your optician has expressly told you so.

When should you choose glasses instead of contact lenses?

Contact lenses are an excellent option for most people, but there are situations where progressive or single-vision glasses are preferable: very dusty or smoky environments, periods of severe eye allergies, or when dry eye is severe. Ideally, combine both depending on the situation — contact lenses for sport or social events, glasses for working at the computer or at home.

Frequently asked questions

Are contact lenses for astigmatism more expensive?

Yes, slightly more than spherical lenses, because they are more complex to manufacture. Daily lenses cost between €40-80 per box (30 lenses), and monthly lenses between €15-30 per box (3 lenses). At Òptica Florit we help you find the best value option for your prescription.

Can I buy toric contact lenses online?

You can reorder them online if you have already been fitted with us and know exactly which model you wear. However, the first fitting must always be done with an optician — the axis of the astigmatism and stabilisation are critical factors that cannot be checked without an in-person examination.

Can I play sport with contact lenses for astigmatism?

Yes, it is one of their main advantages. Soft toric lenses are very stable even during intense physical exercise. For water sports, it is important to wear protective goggles over them.

How long does it take to adapt?

Most people adapt in 1-2 weeks. At first there may be some foreign body sensation or small fluctuations in vision while the eye gets used to the stabilisation system.

Do contact lenses fully correct astigmatism?

In most cases, yes — the correction is comparable to that of well-prescribed glasses. For very high or irregular astigmatism, rigid lenses can even give a better result than glasses.

Do you have astigmatism and want to try contact lenses? Book your fitting appointment at Òptica Florit — we will give you a full assessment with no obligation and find the ideal lens for you.