50 years since the invention of the first soft contact lenses

Otto Wichterle. A name that has undoubtedly gone down in history. This gentleman, a prominent Czech chemist and founder of the Institute of Macromolecular Chemistry of the Czechoslovak Academy of Sciences in Prague, invented soft contact lenses in 1957. To produce them, he used a device he built from a Merkur children’s construction set and powered it with a bicycle dynamo. Thanks to his tireless enthusiasm and belief in success, he created a product that is now used by millions of people all over the world.

Modern times bring modern solutions

Since the first lens prototypes, not only have the manufacturing process and material changed, but the demands of modern times are also taken into account. That is why coloured contact lenses have become a hit in recent years. The market offers non-prescription coloured contact lenses, as well as those with prescription powers. The difference compared to classic clear lenses is that they contain a coloured layer which, once inserted, covers the iris and changes the colour of your eyes within a few seconds. Non-prescription lenses are suitable for everyone who does not have any vision defect, while coloured prescription contact lenses will be appreciated by those who normally wear glasses or prescription lenses. Just like with classic clear lenses, with coloured lenses it is also necessary to choose the required number of dioptres separately for each eye.

Safe use

Coloured prescription contact lenses as well as non-prescription ones are often discussed in terms of safety, with opponents pointing to the possibility of the colour used affecting the eye. The fact, however, is that the colour is located inside a layer that does not come into contact with the eye, so it cannot damage it in any way. And likewise, it does not cause any allergic reactions.

As with clear lenses, with coloured contact lenses it is also necessary to pay attention to hygiene when inserting them, store them in solution and use them only for the period recommended by the manufacturer.

During his research, Otto Wichterle certainly did not even suspect what a revolution his invention would cause. Coloured prescription and non-prescription contact lenses are then just proof that development is still moving forward and bringing new possibilities adapted to the demands of modern times.