Spectra of UV-absorbing contact lenses: relative performance

The ultraviolet (UV) transmission spectra of commercially available contact lenses were determined with methods developed to accurately and precisely make these measurements. Lenses were compared by their relative performance in the UVA, UVB, and total UV ranges. Other factors believed to be important were also compared. There is a large range of variability in the performance among lenses from different manufacturers. It was not possible to develop a single parameter to relate the ability of these lenses to absorb UV radiation with putative abilities to protect the ocular system. This article presents results of studies to show the data from accurate measurements of the amount of UV radiation transmitted by commercially available UV-blocking contact lenses. The listed results allow practitioners to recommend UV protection options from performance data.