There are two types of lenses that your child’s doctor can prescribe. They fix or improve many types of vision problems.

These include:

• Eyeglasses: These are the most common form of eyewear. They include a frame that holds lenses made of plastic or glass. The lenses fix vision problems by adjusting focusing power, helping bring images into clear focus.
• Contact lenses: Kids wear contact lenses directly on the cornea — the clear, dome-shaped layer that covers the front of the eye. Like eyeglasses, they help fix vision problems by adding or subtracting focusing power to help the eyes see better.

An eyeglass prescription shows the vision strength for each eye — OD for right, OS for left. It includes terms like sphere, cylinder and axis. They fix problems with seeing close up, seeing far away or blurred vision. Lens types vary based on the issue.

Contact lens prescriptions include vision strength, just like glasses. They also include the lens curve and size to fit your child’s eye. Trial lenses help make sure they’re comfortable before choosing the final prescription.

If they’re old enough, let your child help choose their eyeglasses.

Eyeglass features to consider for comfort and safety:

• Shatterproof lenses
• Scratch-resistant coating on the lenses
• Flexible frames
• Non-slip nose pads
• Straps or earpieces that wrap around the ear

Makeup is a common cause of irritation kids who wear contact lens. Not using them the right way can lead to infections or other eye problems.

Tips for safe use of contact lenses:

• Wash hands before handling contact lenses.
• Do not expose the eyes to water while wearing contact lenses.
• If using makeup, use hypoallergenic and fragrance-free.
• Apply makeup after putting contact lenses in and clean brushes often.
• Avoid glitter eyeshadows, eyeliner on the inner eyelid and loose powder near the eyes.
• Do not share makeup.