Bausch + Lomb ULTRA (Bausch + Lomb) and Biofinity (CooperVision) are two of the most frequently chosen silicone hydrogel monthly disposable contact lenses in Canada. Both lenses are designed for extended, comfortable wear over 30 days and provide high oxygen flow.
While both satisfy the fundamental requirement for monthly replacement, they utilize different silicone hydrogel materials and unique moisture retention technologies. Reviewing these factual distinctions helps patients and eye care professionals select the correct lens based on specific comfort needs, particularly concerning digital screen use.
Material Composition and Oxygen Transmissibility
Both brands rely on third-generation silicone hydrogel materials, which provide significantly higher oxygen permeability compared to traditional hydrogel polymers. This high transmissibility is a prerequisite for monthly wear and minimises the risk of corneal hypoxia.
The ULTRA lens is fabricated from Samfilcon A (46% water content), which delivers an oxygen transmissibility (Dk/t) of 163. Biofinity is constructed using Comfilcon A (48% water content), which provides a Dk/t of 160. While the numerical difference is marginal, both materials meet the standards required for continuous wear and corneal health over the monthly cycle. Both materials are highly stable silicone hydrogel compositions.
The choice of material affects the extended wear capability. Due to the inherent oxygen flow of these polymers, both lenses are sanctioned for up to six nights and seven days of continuous wear, subject to approval from an eye care professional. This high performance ensures the lenses do not significantly compromise corneal health during multi-day use.
Hydration Technologies and Digital Comfort
The core distinction between ULTRA and Biofinity lies in the proprietary technology each brand employs to maintain surface hydration throughout the long wearing period. This mechanism is paramount for patients who experience dryness related to environmental factors or reduced blinking during screen use.
ULTRA (MoistureSeal® Technology)
The MoistureSeal system is engineered to combat digital eye strain. The process involves a two-phase polymerisation that creates a highly hydrophilic (water-attracting) surface. The technology is specifically designed to retain 95% of the lens moisture for a full 16-hour wearing period. This focus on retaining surface water is specifically targeted toward mitigating the drying effects associated with prolonged digital device usage, which often causes a decrease in blink rate and subsequent tear film disruption.
Biofinity (Aquaform® Technology)
Aquaform technology uses a material that achieves high water attraction throughout the lens structure itself. This built-in water attraction means the hydration is a physical part of the Comfilcon A material matrix, rather than a surface treatment. This system provides sustained, natural hydration and softness that reduces the reliance on external rewetting agents. The Aquaform design is known for creating a naturally wettable lens that resists protein and lipid deposits over the 30-day wear period.
Specialised Vision Corrections
Both ULTRA and Biofinity accommodate a full range of specialised vision needs, including astigmatism and presbyopia.
The ULTRA for Astigmatism lens employs an OpticAlign™ design, engineered for stable and precise alignment. This stabilisation mechanism ensures the toric correction remains centred, minimising rotational movement that causes intermittent blur. The ULTRA for Presbyopia uses a 3-Zone Progressive Design, which features seamlessly blended viewing zones to provide clear sight at near, intermediate, and distance viewing ranges.
Similarly, the Biofinity Toric lens uses an Optimized Toric Lens Geometry, which features a uniform horizontal thickness to promote stability and predictable lens orientation. The Biofinity Multifocal utilizes Balanced Progressive™ Technology, which places multiple correction zones on both the left and right lenses to maximise visual acuity across all distances. The availability of these specialised designs in both brands means patient selection can focus primarily on comfort technology rather than prescription availability.
Technical Comparison Overview
| Feature | Bausch + Lomb ULTRA | Biofinity |
|---|---|---|
| Material Name | Samfilcon A | Comfilcon A |
| Technology Focus | MoistureSeal® (Surface Hydration) | Aquaform® (Bulk Material Wettability) |
| Oxygen Transmissibility (Dk/t) | 163 | 160 |
| Water Content | 46% | 48% |
| Wearing Schedule | Monthly (Extended Wear Approved) | Monthly (Extended Wear Approved) |
| Base Curve/Diameter Range | Restricted | Broad |
Lens Selection and Fitting Considerations
The final selection between ULTRA and Biofinity depends on the patient’s individual eye curvature and their specific comfort requirements related to digital strain. While the technical specifications are close, the base curve (BC) and diameter (DIA) must be assessed during a professional fitting.
A correct fit is mandatory for vision and health. A lens that is too tight restricts tear flow, while a lens that is too loose causes excessive movement and instability, particularly with toric correction.
Factors determined during a lens fitting include:
- Corneal Curvature – Measured to match the lens’s Base Curve (BC) for proper centration.
- Acuity Check – Testing visual performance with the lens centred to confirm prescription accuracy.
- Fit Assessment – Evaluating lens movement and tear exchange to ensure long-term corneal health.
Consulting with an eye care professional is the only way to confirm the lens material and design are appropriate for your eye’s surface and curvature, thereby ensuring comfort and optimal vision performance.
Getting Started
Both ULTRA and Biofinity are widely available through VisionPros Canada. Whether you prioritise hydration for digital use or breathability for extended wear, you can shop both lenses easily. A simple online vision test can facilitate the renewal of your stable prescription, allowing you to quickly purchase your preferred brand.
