Contacts: When Were They Really Invented?

Get in touch with history: Discover the surprising origins of contacts!

Source clickamericana.com

When Were Contacts Invented

Contacts, also known as contact lenses, have become an increasingly common form of vision correction over the past century. They have been instrumental in freeing those with poor vision from the restrictions of eyeglasses. However, most people do not know the true origins of this invention. In this article, we explore the fascinating history of contact lenses and how they came to be.

The Origins of Vision Correction

Vision correction has been a concern for as long as human beings have been able to recognize poor vision. The ancient Egyptians filled their eyeholes with a mixture of honey and crocodile dung as a crude way of correcting vision. Later, the Greeks created the first magnifying lenses by filling glass spheres with water. The Chinese ground quartz into lenses, and the Romans also developed magnifying lenses around AD 1000. However, these early solutions were unwieldy and provided only limited correction.

The first true vision-correcting lenses came in the form of corrective glasses. These were invented by Salvino D'Armate in the mid-13th century. Although they were rudimentary and uncomfortable, they were a major breakthrough in vision correction. It wasn't until many centuries later that contact lenses were developed.

The First Contact Lenses

In the late 19th century, the idea of using contact lenses to correct vision had been proposed by several inventors. In 1887, German glassblower F. E. Muller created a contact lens which he fashioned himself. These were made out of a strong glass material and proved to be incredibly uncomfortable. In 1888, Swiss ophthalmologist Adolf Fick developed the first successful contact lens. They were made out of heavy brown glass and covered the entire eye, which proved to be too uncomfortable for most people to wear.

It wasn't until 1936 that the first soft contact lens was invented. This was made out of a plastic called polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and was more comfortable and practical than its predecessors. They were still not widely available, and only a handful of people could afford them.

Advancements in Contact Lenses

Over the decades, advancements in technology and materials have made contact lenses much more popular. The 1970s saw the advent of soft contact lenses made from hydrogel, which became much more popular than the previous hard lenses. These lenses were made from a soft, water-rich material that was much more comfortable than previous lenses. The 1980s saw the introduction of disposable contact lenses, and in recent years, silicone hydrogel lenses have been developed that allow more oxygen to reach the eye.

Today, contact lenses are a popular vision correction option that can be worn by millions of people around the world. They have come a long way from their primitive beginnings and continue to be refined through technological innovation. It's amazing to think that something so inconspicuous and easily taken for granted has such an interesting and complex history behind it.

The Modern Contact Lens Market

Contact lenses are a popular vision correction option that have come a long way since they were first invented. With advancements in technology and design, contact lenses are becoming more comfortable, convenient, and affordable than ever before. Today, millions of people wear contact lenses around the world.

Soft vs Hard Lenses

Soft contact lenses were introduced in the 1970s and quickly became the most popular choice for contact lens wearers. These lenses are made of a soft, flexible material that conforms to the shape of the eye. They are comfortable to wear and can be worn for extended periods of time. Soft lenses are also available in a variety of designs, including daily disposables and extended wear.Hard contact lenses, also known as rigid gas permeable lenses, are made of a firm plastic material that allows oxygen to pass through to the eye. These lenses provide excellent vision correction and can last longer than soft lenses. They also may be a better option for people with certain eye conditions. However, hard lenses can be uncomfortable to wear and require an adjustment period. When deciding between soft and hard lenses, it is important to consider factors such as comfort, vision needs, and eye health. A qualified eye doctor can help determine which type of lens is best for each individual.

Popular Brands and Styles

There are many different brands and styles of contact lenses available today, each with their own unique features and benefits. Some of the most popular brands include Acuvue, Bausch + Lomb, CooperVision, and Alcon.Daily disposable lenses are a popular choice for people who want a hassle-free, convenient option. These lenses can be worn once and then thrown away, eliminating the need for cleaning and maintenance. Extended wear lenses can be worn for up to a month without removal, while monthly disposable lenses require replacement every 30 days.There are also specialized lenses available, such as toric lenses for people with astigmatism, and multifocal lenses for people with presbyopia. Colored contact lenses are also a fun and popular option for people who want to change their eye color.

Future Developments in Contact Lens Technology

Research and development in contact lens technology continue to push the boundaries of what is possible. Some of the latest developments include “smart” lenses that can monitor glucose levels in tears, and lenses that can deliver medication directly to the eye.Researchers are also exploring the use of contact lenses in virtual and augmented reality technology. These lenses could help provide a more immersive and comfortable experience for users.In addition, improvements in lens design and materials continue to increase comfort and convenience for contact lens wearers. One example is silicone hydrogel material, which is used in many soft contact lenses. This material allows for more oxygen to reach the eye, promoting eye health and comfort.As technology continues to advance, the possibilities for contact lens design and function are endless. Whether it’s for vision correction or specialized uses, contact lenses are likely to remain a popular and effective option for many people for years to come.In conclusion, contact lenses have come a long way since they were first invented. With advancements in technology and materials, contact lenses are becoming more comfortable, convenient, and accessible. Whether someone chooses soft or hard lenses, there are many brands and styles available to fit their specific needs. And with ongoing research and development, the future of contact lens technology is sure to bring even more exciting possibilities.

Related Video: Contacts: When Were They Really Invented?