A woman putting contact lenses.

Contact lenses

At Leightons, we believe in making vision care simple and accessible. Our contact lenses provide the perfect blend of comfort and clarity, allowing you to see the world without worrying about looking after your glasses every day. Whether you're new to contact lenses or a long-time wearer, our expert team is here to help you every step of the way.

What are contact lenses and how do they work?

Contact lenses are thin, curved specialist oxygen transmissible plastic lenses that sit gently on the eye's surface to correct focus. Most contact lenses work by refracting light and focusing it onto the retina, providing clear vision.

There are many different types of contact lenses available, including soft and rigid gas-permeable lenses, designed to accommodate various vision needs and preferences.

Some contact lenses, like Ortho-K lenses are specially designed rigid gas-permeable contact lenses worn overnight while sleeping to temporarily reshape the cornea and correct refractive errors like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.

Close up of Woman Holding Contact Lens on Finger.

Why wear contact lenses?

Wearing contact lenses offers a range of benefits for your vision and lifestyle. They provide:

  • Clear, natural vision without the need for glasses every day
  • Improved peripheral vision for activities like sports and driving
  • Convenience for active lifestyles and outdoor adventures
  • A versatile option for different occasions and outfits
  • A confidence boosts with cosmetic appeal

Contact lenses are a popular choice for many, offering freedom from glasses while ensuring sharp, comfortable vision. Our opticians can guide you in finding the perfect contact lens solution tailored to your unique needs and preferences.

Woman hold contact lenses and glasses in hands close up.

Contact lens services at Leightons

Eye test

Never worn contact lenses before? Before considering contact lenses, it's essential to have a comprehensive eye test to determine your vision needs and ensure that contact lenses are a suitable option for you. Our opticians will evaluate your eye health and provide personalised recommendations.

Contact lens consultation

If you're interested in trying contact lenses for the first time, we recommend booking a contact lens consultation at your nearest branch. Our opticians will guide you through the process, discuss your options, and ensure a successful transition to contact lens wear.

Free contact lens comfort trial

At Leightons, we offer a free contact lens trial, allowing you to experience wearing contacts before committing to purchase. Feel the comfort of contact lenses at the end of an eye examination and experience the unrestricted view whilst you choose your glasses. This gives you the opportunity to assess if contacts are suitable for your lifestyle and vision needs.

MyLeightons Care Plan

Already a contact lens wearer? The MyLeightons Care Plan offers exceptional value and peace of mind for contact lens wearers, ensuring you receive personalised care, cost savings, comprehensive eye health monitoring with eye examination included and exclusive benefits.

Contact lens reordering

For your convenience, we offer an online contact lens ordering service: the Leightons Ordering Hub. It allows you to reorder your contact lenses and consumables, or even adjust your Direct Debit payments, all at your convenience.

Recycling contact lenses

Leightons now offers recycling collections points in all branches for contact lenses and their packaging. Soft disposable contact lenses (any brand) and contact lens blister packaging and foil (any brand) are accepted. Simply drop these items into the designated bins.

Book an appointment

Book online

You can book your eye test online at any time through our secure, easy-to-use online booking system.

Book by phone

Call us on 0800 40 20 20. Lines are open Monday to Saturday, 8:30am to 5:00pm.

FAQs

Most people who need vision correction can wear contact lenses. However, it's essential to have a comprehensive eye examination and consultation with an optometrist to determine the best chances of making sure contact lenses are suitable for you.

No, contact lens prescriptions differ from glasses prescriptions as they take into account the size and curvature of your eyes. It’s essential to have a proper fitting to ensure comfort and effectiveness.

The cost of contact lenses varies depending on the type and brand. We offer a range of options to suit different budgets, and our team can help you find the best value for your needs.

The best contact lenses for you depend on various factors, including your vision needs, lifestyle, and personal preferences. Our opticians will evaluate your individual circumstances and recommend the most suitable option.

With care and hygiene, contact lenses can be worn safely on a daily basis. However, it's important to follow your optometrist and optician's instructions and replace your lenses as recommended, to maintain eye health.

Careful proper hygiene is crucial for maintaining contact lens cleanliness. Always wash and dry your hands before handling lenses, use the recommended cleaning solution, and replace your lenses as instructed by your optician.