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 he 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 around the world.

Modern times bring modern solutions

Since the first lens prototypes, not only have the manufacturing process and materials changed, but the demands of modern times are also taken into account. That’s why colored contact lenses have become a hit in recent years. The market offers non-prescription colored contact lenses, as well as those with prescription power. The difference compared to classic clear lenses is that they contain a colored layer which, once inserted, covers the iris and changes your eye color in just a few seconds. Non-prescription lenses are suitable for everyone who doesn’t have any vision impairment, while prescription colored contact lenses are appreciated by those who normally wear glasses or prescription contacts. Just like with classic clear lenses, with colored lenses you also need to choose the required prescription power separately for each eye.

Safe use

Prescription colored contact lenses as well as non-prescription ones are often discussed in terms of safety, with opponents pointing to the possibility of the dye affecting the eye. The fact is, however, that the color 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.

Just like with clear lenses, with colored contact lenses it’s 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 surely didn’t even suspect what a revolution his invention would cause. Prescription and non-prescription colored contact lenses are then just proof that development is still moving forward and bringing new options tailored to the demands of modern times.