This statistic shows the estimated market size of contact lenses in North America from 2013 to 2021, by type. In 2016, the North American soft contact lenses market size was about 320 million units, and is forecasted to reach about 355 million units by 2021.

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Contact Lenses Market Size 2025-2029

The contact lenses market size is forecast to increase by USD 6.03 billion at a CAGR of 6% between 2024 and 2029.

The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing prevalence of vision conditions such as myopia and presbyopia, leading to a higher demand for corrective contact lenses. Soft contact lenses, primarily made of hydrogels, continue to dominate the market due to their comfort and ease of use. Advanced technologies, including daily disposable lenses and multifocal contact lenses, are gaining popularity for their convenience and improved vision correction capabilities. However, stringent regulations imposed by regulatory bodies ensure the safety and efficacy of contact lenses, which may hinder market growth. Overall, the market is expected to continue its expansion as more individuals seek effective and convenient vision care solutions.

What will be the Size of the Market During the Forecast Period?

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The market encompasses a wide range of corrective and cosmetic lenses, including soft contact lenses, RGP (rigid gas permeable) lenses, and hybrid lenses. This market caters to various vision needs, such as astigmatism, nearsightedness, farsightedness, and presbyopia. The market's growth is driven by increasing prevalence of refractive errors, a growing aging population, and the desire for cosmetic enhancement. However, factors like infection, allergy, vitamin deficiency, and eye strain can pose challenges. Technological advancements, such as CLAREN (Customized Lens Array for Refractive Error Neutralization) and VASSEN (Variable Axial Stretch System for Enhancement), continue to shape the market. Additionally, celebrity endorsements and the rise of online sales platforms contribute to market expansion.
Visual impairments, including myopia and its genetic basis, further fuel the demand for contact lenses. Eye strain and digital screen exposure are emerging concerns, necessitating the development of specialized lenses.

How is this Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD billion' for the period 2025-2029, as well as historical data from 2019-2023 for the following segments.

Product

  Soft lenses
  Rigid gas permeable lenses
  Hybrid lenses


Distribution Channel

  Offline
  Online


Type

  Daily wear
  Extended wear
  Traditional


Variant

  Spherical
  Multifocal
  Cosmetic
  Monovision


Solution

  Opaque
  Enhancers
  Visibility tinted


Application

  Conventional
  Decorative
  Orthokeratology


Geography

  North America

    Canada
    US


  Europe

    Germany
    UK
    France
    Italy


  APAC

    China
    India
    Japan


  Middle East and Africa



  South America

By Product Insights

The soft lenses segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period.

The market is driven by the growing demand for soft contact lenses, which accounted for the largest market share in 2021. This segment, made from hydrogels, offer greater comfort and flexibility compared to RGP lenses. These lenses are more pliable, easier to adjust, and stay in place better. The hydrogel material allows oxygen to permeate through the lens to the cornea, ensuring eye health and increased comfort. Market growth is anticipated due to the rising prevalence of refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Additionally, market expansion is fueled by the introduction of advanced technologies, including virtual try-on technologies, subscription services, and wellness packaging.

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The soft lenses segment was valued at USD 7.17 billion in 2019 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

North America is estimated to contribute 34% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period.

Technavio's analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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Contact lenses are a popular solution for correcting refractive errors, particularly nearsightedness and farsightedness, which affect over 194 million adults In the US. The rise in digital screen usage and potential genetic predisposition are leading causes of vision impairment, contributing to the growing demand for corrective vision aids. Contact lenses offer various types, including soft, RGP, and hybrid lenses, catering to diverse vision needs. Brands like Bausch & Lomb, Alcon, CooperVision, and others dominate the market, providing multipurpose solutions and lens care products. Market value and reve

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Soft Contact Lens Market Size 2024-2028

The soft contact lens market size is forecast to increase by USD 2.77 billion at a CAGR of 5.91% between 2023 and 2028.

The contact lens market In the vision care industry experiences significant growth due to several key factors. The number of individuals diagnosed with eye disorders continues to rise, leading to a higher demand for corrective contact lenses. Hydrogel contact lenses, in particular, have gained popularity due to their comfort and ease of use. Another trend influencing market growth is the increasing preference for daily disposable contact lenses, which offer convenience and improved eye health. However, challenges such as lack of awareness and limited access to eye care services for those with eye disorders remain. These factors collectively shape the dynamics of the contact lens market, making it an intriguing space for growth and innovation.

What will be the Size of the Soft Contact Lens Market during the Forecast Period?

Request Free SampleThe market encompasses a significant segment of the vision care industry, characterized by continuous innovation and growth. These lenses, made primarily from hydrogels and oxygen-permeable polymers, cater to various refractive errors, including myopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia. The market's expansion is driven by the increasing prevalence of eye disorders, such as age-related cataracts, macular degeneration, and presbyopia, particularly withIn the geriatric population. Soft contact lenses offer advantages over prescription eyeglasses, including improved aesthetic appeal and greater convenience for users. Technological advancements, including the integration of electronic gadgets and laser technology, further enhance the functionality and comfort of soft contact lenses. The market's size is substantial, with both disposable and reusable lenses contributing to its growth.Contact lens manufacturers continue to invest in research and development to address unmet needs and expand their product offerings.

How is this Soft Contact Lens Industry segmented and which is the largest segment?

The soft contact lens industry research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in 'USD million' for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments. ProductDaily soft contact lensWeekly replacement lensMonthly replacement lensOthersApplicationCorrective lensTherapeutic lensCosmetic lensGeographyNorth AmericaUSEuropeGermanyUKAPACChinaJapanSouth AmericaMiddle East and Africa

By Product Insights

The daily soft contact lens segment is estimated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Soft contact lenses, particularly daily disposable ones, have witnessed growing demand due to their convenience and comfort. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on producing soft contact lenses, as opposed to hard ones, to cater to consumer preferences. In March 2023, CooperVision, a subsidiary of The Cooper Companies Inc., introduced the first daily disposable lenses featuring the company's DigitalBoost aspheric design and Aquaform material technology. These lenses, named MyDay Energys, offer enhanced comfort and reduced eye strain for users, addressing the needs of individuals who extensively use digital devices. MyDay Energys lenses incorporate a +0.3D power boost to ease eye muscle strain when focusing between various distances.Materials used in soft contact lenses include hydrogels and oxygen-permeable polymers, such as PMMA. Soft contact lenses correct refractive errors, including astigmatism and presbyopia, and address eye disorders like myopia, cataracts, age-related cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and diabetic retinopathy. The vision care industry continues to expand, with contact lenses and prescription eyeglasses offering aesthetic appeal in addition to functional benefits. Contact lens manufacturers aim to meet the diverse needs of consumers through the production of disposable and reusable lenses.

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The Daily soft contact lens segment was valued at USD 2.47 billion in 2018 and showed a gradual increase during the forecast period.

Regional Analysis

North America is estimated to contribute 34% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio’s analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.

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Refractive errors, such as myopia and hyperopia, are prevalent vision issues In the US, affecting over 15% of the North American population. The rise in digital screen usage among teenagers and adults contributes to an increase in vision impairment. Genetics also plays a role, with

The Report Covers Global Contact Lens Market Share by Company and is segmented by Product Type (Soft contact lens, Hybrid Contact Lens, Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lens, and Others), By Usages (Corrective Contact Lens, Therapeutic Contact Lens, Others), By Distribution channel (Spectacle Stores, Online Stores, and Others), and By Geography (North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, South America, and the Middle East & Africa).

Global Smart Contact Lens Market is Segmented by Type (Rigid Gas-Permeable, Daily-wear Soft Lenses, Extended-Wear Lenses, and Others), Application (Continuous Glucose Monitoring and Intraocular Pressure Monitoring), End User (Hospitals, Ophthalmology Clinics, and Others), and Geography (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa, and South America). The report offers the value (USD million) for the above segments.

According to Cognitive Market Research, the global RGP Contact Lens market size will be USD 1524.5 million in 2024. It will expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.90% from 2024 to 2031.

North America held the major market share for more than 40% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 609.80 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.1% from 2024 to 2031.
Europe accounted for a market share of over 30% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 457.35 million.
Asia Pacific held a market share of around 23% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 350.64 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.9% from 2024 to 2031.
Latin America had a market share of more than 5% of the global revenue with a market size of USD 76.23 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.3% from 2024 to 2031.
Middle East and Africa had a market share of around 2% of the global revenue and was estimated at a market size of USD 30.49 million in 2024 and will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.6% from 2024 to 2031.
The optometrists and ophthalmologists represent the dominant end user category, as they play a critical role in prescribing and fitting these lenses for patients

Market Dynamics of RGP Contact Lens Market

Key Drivers for RGP Contact Lens Market

Increasing Prevalence of Vision Disorders to Boost Market Growth

The rising incidence of vision disorders, particularly myopia and astigmatism, is significantly driving the RGP Contact Lens Market. This growing concern over vision health has led to an increased demand for corrective lenses that provide clear vision. RGP lenses are particularly effective for individuals with these conditions due to their ability to maintain a stable shape and provide superior optical quality compared to soft lenses. Additionally, as awareness regarding the long-term impacts of uncorrected vision grows, consumers are increasingly seeking durable and reliable solutions like RGP lenses to enhance their quality of life. For instance, in June 2022, Johnson & Johnson Vision, a part of Johnson & Johnson MedTech, received FDA clearance for its latest contact lens innovation, ACUVUE OASYS MAX 1-Day and ACUVUE OASYS MAX 1-Day MULTIFOCAL.

Advancements in Lens Technology to Drive Market Growth

Technological advancements in lens materials and manufacturing processes are transforming the RGP Contact Lens Market by enhancing the performance and comfort of these lenses. Innovations such as improved oxygen permeability and lighter, more durable materials are making RGP lenses more appealing to a broader audience. For instance, the development of high Dk (oxygen permeability) materials allows for longer wear times without discomfort, addressing one of the primary barriers to adoption. Moreover, advancements in digital fitting technologies enable eye care professionals to provide a more precise fit, resulting in increased satisfaction among users. As these technologies continue to evolve, they are likely to attract new customers, including those who may have previously opted for soft lenses due to comfort concerns, thereby expanding the market potential for RGP contact lenses.

Restraint Factor for the RGP Contact Lens Market

High Initial Cost and Adaptation Challenges, will Limit Market Growth

One of the significant restraints in the RGP Contact Lens Market is the high initial cost associated with these lenses compared to their soft counterparts. While RGP lenses offer long-term durability and superior vision correction, the upfront investment can be a deterrent for price-sensitive consumers. Additionally, the adaptation period required for new users transitioning from soft lenses to RGP lenses poses another challenge. Many individuals experience discomfort during the initial adjustment phase, leading to a reluctance to fully embrace RGP lenses. These factors combined can limit market growth and hinder wider adoption among potential users.

Impact of Covid-19 on the RGP Contact Lens Market

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the RGP Contact Lens Market, primarily through disruptions in supply chains and shifts in consumer behavior. During the height of the pandemic, many optical retail stores and clinics faced temporary closures, leading to a decline in eye examinations and the fitting of new lenses. This situation f...

The size and share of the market is categorized based on Type (Daily Soft Contact Lens, Weekly Replacement Lens, Monthly Replacement Lens) and Application (Cosmetic, Therapeutic, Corrective) and geographical regions (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle-East and Africa).

The size and share of the market is categorized based on Type (Silicone Hydrogel, Hydrogels) and Application (Clinic, Hospital, Online Sales) and geographical regions (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle-East and Africa).

The size and share of the market is categorized based on Application (Hospital Pharmacies, Optical Shop, Online Stores, Others) and Product (Soft Lenses, Hard Lenses, Rigid Gas Permeable Lenses) and geographical regions (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle-East and Africa).

Global Weekly Disposable Contact Lens Market, By Type,By Application,By Region - Trends, Analysis and Forecast till 2029

GP Contact Lenses Market Outlook

The global GP (gas permeable) contact lenses market size is projected to grow significantly from USD 1.2 billion in 2023 to USD 2.1 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period. This growth is driven by advancements in lens technology, increasing prevalence of eye disorders, and rising consumer preference for customized vision correction solutions. The market's expansion is further bolstered by increasing awareness about the benefits of GP contact lenses over soft lenses, such as better oxygen permeability and longer lifespan.

One of the primary growth factors for the GP contact lenses market is the increasing prevalence of myopia and other refractive errors globally. As more individuals, especially in urban areas, experience vision problems due to lifestyle changes and increased screen time, the demand for effective corrective solutions such as GP contact lenses is rising. Additionally, the aging population is contributing to the market growth, as older adults often prefer GP lenses for their superior durability and vision clarity compared to soft lenses.

Technological advancements in lens materials and design are also playing a crucial role in the market's growth. Innovations such as high-DK fluorosilicone acrylate materials and advanced orthokeratology lens designs are enhancing user comfort and visual acuity, making GP lenses more attractive to a broader range of consumers. Continuous research and development efforts are leading to the production of lenses that can address complex vision issues, including presbyopia and keratoconus, thus broadening the application scope of GP contact lenses.

Moreover, increasing consumer awareness about the long-term cost-effectiveness and health benefits of GP lenses compared to soft lenses is contributing to market expansion. GP lenses, known for their durability and lower replacement frequency, provide a cost-effective solution for consumers in the long run. Additionally, the ability of GP lenses to slow the progression of myopia in children is encouraging parents and eye care professionals to opt for these lenses, further driving market growth.

Toric Contact Lenses are specifically designed to address the unique vision needs of individuals with astigmatism. Unlike spherical lenses, toric lenses have different powers in different meridians of the lens to correct the irregular curvature of the cornea or lens of the eye. This design allows for more stable and clear vision, which is crucial for those with astigmatism who often experience blurred or distorted vision. The increasing awareness and diagnosis of astigmatism are driving the demand for toric contact lenses, as they offer a tailored solution that enhances visual clarity and comfort. Eye care professionals are increasingly recommending toric lenses due to their effectiveness in providing precise vision correction and their ability to stay in place better than traditional lenses.

The regional outlook for the GP contact lenses market indicates significant growth potential across various geographies. North America and Europe are currently leading the market due to high awareness levels and advanced healthcare infrastructure. However, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period, driven by a large population base, increasing disposable incomes, and growing awareness about eye health. The rising prevalence of myopia in countries like China and India is particularly contributing to the market's expansion in this region.

Product Type Analysis

The GP contact lenses market is segmented into several product types, including Spherical GP Lenses, Toric GP Lenses, Multifocal GP Lenses, and Orthokeratology GP Lenses. Spherical GP lenses are designed primarily for individuals with simple refractive errors such as myopia or hyperopia. These lenses offer enhanced visual acuity and superior oxygen permeability compared to traditional soft lenses, making them a popular choice among eye care professionals and consumers seeking long-term vision correction solutions.

Toric GP lenses cater to individuals with astigmatism, a condition where the cornea's uneven curvature leads to distorted vision. These lenses are specially designed to correct the irregular shape of the cornea, providing clear and stable vision. The demand for toric GP lenses is growing steadily as more people are diagnosed with astigmatis

The global multifocal contact lens market was valued at approximately XXX million in 2023 and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of XX% from 2023 to 2033. The increasing prevalence of presbyopia, advancements in contact lens technology, and rising disposable income levels are key factors driving the market growth. Furthermore, the growing awareness of the benefits of multifocal contact lenses over traditional eyeglasses further contributes to the market expansion. The market is primarily segmented based on application, type, and region. Optical shops hold a significant market share due to their accessibility and wide range of contact lens options. Soft lenses dominate the type segment due to their increased comfort and ease of use. North America and Europe are the leading regional markets, driven by developed healthcare infrastructure and high disposable incomes. Key players in the industry include Johnson and Johnson Vision Care, Novartis, CooperVision, Bausch + Lomb, and Menicon. Strategic partnerships, product innovations, and geographical expansion are key strategies adopted by these companies to consolidate their market positions and expand their global reach.

The global hybrid contact lenses market is anticipated to witness steady revenue growth during the forecast period, 2025-2033. Hybrid contact lenses combine the advantages of soft and gas-permeable materials, providing users with improved vision, comfort, and oxygen permeability. The rising prevalence of vision correction issues, such as astigmatism and presbyopia, is propelling demand for hybrid contact lenses. Additionally, the growing adoption of advanced lens materials and designs is expected to drive the market's growth. Key industry players in the hybrid contact lenses market include Novartis, CooperVision, Bausch + Lomb, and St.Shine Optical. These companies are investing heavily in research and development to enhance the performance and user experience of their products. The market is segmented based on application (cosmetic, therapeutic, corrective, and others) and type (daily replacement lens, weekly replacement lens, and monthly replacement lens). Geographically, North America and Europe are the dominant regions in the market, followed by Asia Pacific, and the Middle East & Africa.

The size and share of the market is categorized based on Application (Corrective Lenses, Therapeutic Lenses, Cosmetic Lenses and Lifestyle-Oriented Lenses, Others) and Product (Rigid Contact Lenses, Hybrid Contact Lenses, Soft Contact Lenses) and geographical regions (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle-East and Africa).

The global market for silicone hydrogel soft contact lenses stands at $2365 million, exhibiting a steady growth with a CAGR of 7.2% from 2019 to 2024. This growth is primarily driven by increasing prevalence of refractive errors, growing demand for cosmetic eye care, and advancements in materials and designs. Key market trends include the rise of daily disposable lenses, the integration of smart technology, and the growing popularity of colored contact lenses. In terms of segmentation, the application segment is divided into Child and Adult, with the Adult segment accounting for a larger market share. The types segment includes Nearsighted Glasses and Decorative Glasses. Regionally, North America and Europe hold dominant positions in the market, followed by Asia Pacific. Key industry players include Johnson &Johnson Vision Care, Novartis, CooperVision, Bausch + Lomb, St.Shine Optical, Menicon, Hydron, and Weicon.

The size and share of the market is categorized based on Application (Soft Contact Lenses, Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses, Hybrid Contact Lenses, Scleral Contact Lenses) and Product (Vision Correction, Astigmatism Correction, Presbyopia Correction, Cosmetic Enhancement, Therapeutic Lenses) and geographical regions (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South America, and Middle-East and Africa).

The global contact lens inspection system market, valued at $105 million in 2025, is poised for robust growth, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.2% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is driven by several key factors. The increasing prevalence of myopia and hyperopia globally fuels demand for contact lenses, consequently increasing the need for efficient and accurate inspection systems to ensure product quality and safety. Furthermore, advancements in technology, such as the development of automated systems offering higher throughput and precision compared to manual methods, are significantly impacting market growth. Stringent regulatory guidelines regarding contact lens manufacturing and distribution also contribute to the adoption of these inspection systems. The market is segmented by application (soft and hard contact lenses) and type (automatic and manual systems), with the automated segment expected to dominate due to its efficiency and accuracy benefits. Growth is further fueled by the rising adoption of advanced imaging techniques integrated into these systems, enabling the detection of even minute defects. Regional variations exist, with North America and Europe currently holding significant market share due to established healthcare infrastructure and technological advancements. However, the Asia-Pacific region, particularly China and India, is anticipated to witness substantial growth in the coming years, driven by rising disposable incomes, increased awareness of eye health, and expanding contact lens manufacturing capabilities. While the market faces certain restraints, such as high initial investment costs associated with automated systems and the availability of skilled technicians, these challenges are likely to be mitigated by ongoing technological innovation and cost reductions, ensuring continued market expansion throughout the forecast period. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of established players and emerging companies, leading to continuous improvements in system performance and affordability.