Can You Use Your Contact Lens Prescription for Glasses?
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by EydologyJ
4 min reading time
Can you use your contact lens prescription for glasses? Learn why contact lens and eyeglass prescriptions differ, whether prescription conversion is possible, and how to order prescription glasses online.
If you wear contact lenses throughout the day, switching to glasses when you get home can be a welcome change. You might prefer glasses while relaxing on the couch, watching a movie, or taking a break from wearing contacts. But before ordering a new pair, you may wonder: Can you use your contact lens prescription for glasses?
Generally, no. Contact lenses and eyeglasses sit at different distances from your eyes, so they may require different prescription powers. Even if the numbers on your contact lens prescription look similar to those you need for glasses, you shouldn't assume they're interchangeable. If you're planning to buy prescription eyewear online, here's what you need to know about the differences between the two prescriptions and how to choose the right glasses for your vision needs.
Why Are Contact Lens and Eyeglass Prescriptions Different?
The main difference comes down to vertex distance, or the distance between your lenses and your cornea. Eyeglass lenses typically sit about 12–15 mm in front of your cornea, while contact lenses rest directly on its surface. This difference can affect the lens power needed to correct your vision, especially if you have a stronger prescription.
Although both types of lenses can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, each requires its own prescription.
What Information Does Each Prescription Include?
A contact lens prescription vs. glasses prescription comparison shows that the two documents share some details but also include different measurements.
Prescription Detail
Eyeglass Prescription
Contact Lens Prescription
SPH (Sphere)
Indicates the lens power for correcting nearsightedness or farsightedness.
Indicates the lens power for correcting nearsightedness or farsightedness.
CYL and Axis
Specify the amount and orientation of astigmatism correction, if needed.
May include astigmatism correction, depending on the contact lens type.
BC (Base Curve)
Not typically required.
Specifies the curvature of the contact lens.
DIA (Diameter)
Not typically required.
Specifies the diameter of the contact lens.
The key point is that glasses prescriptions and contact lens prescriptions serve different purposes. Similar numbers don't necessarily mean you can use one prescription for both types of lenses.
Can You Convert a Contact Lens Prescription for Eyewear?
A contact lens prescription alone may not provide enough information to determine your complete eyeglass prescription accurately. Online calculators can estimate differences in lens power, but they can't establish the complete prescription you need for glasses.
What Do You Need to Order Prescription Eyewear Online?
Before ordering prescription glasses online, prepare the prescription information and pupillary distance (PD) that the website requires. These details help you enter the correct information for your lenses.
Start With the Right Prescription
Start with a valid eyeglass prescription. Depending on your vision needs, it may include SPH (sphere), CYL (cylinder), and Axis values. When ordering, enter each value in the corresponding field and follow the website's instructions.
Your pupillary distance (PD) measures the distance between the centers of your pupils. This measurement helps position your eyeglass lenses correctly in front of your eyes.
When ordering glasses online, check whether the website asks for one PD measurement or separate measurements for each eye. If your prescription doesn't include PD, find out how to obtain the required measurement before placing your order instead of guessing.
The right glasses frames should suit your prescription, fit comfortably, and match your personal style. Keep three things in mind when browsing:
·Frame size: Choose a frame that fits your face comfortably and suits your everyday needs.
·Lens compatibility: Check that the frame works with your prescription and the lens type you need.
·Personal style: Choose a shape and design you enjoy wearing, whether you're relaxing at home, working, or heading out.
Once you know your prescription requirements, you can narrow down your options and focus on frames that suit your needs.
Conclusion
If you usually wear contact lenses during the day, having a pair of glasses for home and everyday use gives you another option when you want a break from contacts. Start with the correct eyeglass prescription, then look for frames that feel comfortable and suit your style.
