Buying contact lenses online is convenient and fast, but it’s important to take the right steps to protect your eye health and ensure you’re getting genuine products. Here’s a simple guide to help you buy contact lenses safely and confidently.
1. Visit Your Optometrist for a Prescription
Start by booking an eye exam with your optometrist. A current prescription guarantees that your contact lenses match your vision needs. It includes your eye care professional’s details, your lens parameters, and the prescription’s expiration date.
Buying contacts without a valid prescription is risky and not allowed in Canada. Always keep a copy of your updated prescription before ordering.
2. Choose a Trusted Online Retailer
Not all online stores follow health and safety standards. Here’s what to check before ordering:
- Prescription verification – Reputable retailers must request and verify your prescription with your optometrist.
- Authorized brands – Make sure the store is an authorized retailer for major manufacturers like Acuvue, Alcon, Bausch + Lomb, or CooperVision.
- Visible contact information – A legitimate retailer will list a customer service phone number and return policy.
- Secure checkout – Look for trusted payment options such as Shop Pay, PayPal, or Google Pay.
- Customer reviews – Check independent review platforms like Trustpilot for real feedback.
3. Confirm They Carry Your Brand
Your prescription will specify the lens brand and type approved for you. Before placing an order, confirm that the retailer carries your exact brand. Buying from authorized sources ensures the lenses meet safety and quality standards.
4. Place Your Order
Once everything checks out, you can confidently order your contact lenses online. Consider:
- Shipping and handling – Review fees and delivery times.
- Buying in bulk – This can save money if you wear contacts daily, but avoid overstocking beyond your prescription’s expiry date.
- Discounts and promotions – Look for verified codes for savings or free shipping.
5. Keep Your Prescription Updated
Even if you order online, your optometrist remains part of your eye care routine. Schedule annual exams to track eye health and update your prescription as needed.
Order Your Contacts Online Today
VisionPros carries a wide selection of trusted brands and lens types for every prescription.
If you don’t have a copy of your prescription, simply provide your optometrist’s contact information when you order. We’ll verify it before shipping.
If your prescription is expired, schedule a new eye exam before reordering.
FAQs About Buying Contact Lenses Online
1. Do I need a prescription to buy contact lenses online?
Yes. In Canada, contact lenses are classified as medical devices. A valid, unexpired prescription from a licensed optometrist is required for all orders.
2. How do I verify if an online retailer is authorized?
Authorized retailers clearly display their partnerships with brands like Acuvue, Alcon, Bausch + Lomb, and CooperVision. You can verify this by contacting the manufacturer directly.
3. Is it safe to buy contact lenses from online marketplaces?
It depends. Only purchase from verified stores that require prescriptions. Avoid third-party sellers or deals that appear significantly cheaper than usual.
4. What should I do if my contact lenses don’t feel right after ordering?
Stop using them immediately and contact the retailer’s customer service. If discomfort continues, visit your optometrist to rule out fit or prescription issues.
5. Can I use my glasses prescription to order contact lenses?
No. A glasses prescription differs from a contact lens prescription. You’ll need a separate contact lens fitting to get the correct parameters.
