Study Evaluates Surface Characteristics of Cosmetic Contact Lenses

Cosmetic contact lenses with pigments enclosed in the lens matrix appear to offer a more consistent surface between clear and pigmented regions vs lenses with exposed pigments, according to an analysis involving 5 limbal ring design lenses.

Investigators used scanning electron microscopy to determine the location and depth of the pigment particles from each lens surface. Specifically, they looked at the coefficient of friction (CoF) at clear and pigmented regions, as well as surface roughness. Among the results:

• 4 lens types had pigments exposed on the surface and 1 had pigment fully enclosed.
• Clear and pigmented regions had similar CoF differences for lenses with pigments enclosed.
• The other 4 lens types had statistically significant CoF differences.

Charis L, Tosatti S, Mundorf M, Ebare K, Osborn K.  Comparison of the lubricity and surface roughness of 5 cosmetic contact lenses. Eye & Contact Lens. 2018 Nov;45:S256-S265. doi: 10.1097/ICL.0000000000000482.