Myopia-ControllingContact Lenses
Soft contact lenses designed to slow myopia progression in children and teens. Multiple FDA-approved and clinically validated options are available — compare brands, understand the science, and find a specialist near you.
52–78%
Progression Reduction
6–18
Age Range
5+
Brands Available
How Myopia-Controlling Contact Lenses Work
Two proven optical mechanisms slow the elongation of the eye that drives myopia progression
Dual-Focus / Concentric Ring Design
Alternating optical zones simultaneously correct central vision and create peripheral myopic defocus — a signal that slows axial elongation of the eye. Used by MiSight® (ActivControl®).
Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF)
A continuous power gradient extends the depth of focus, reducing accommodative lag and peripheral hyperopic defocus. Used by Abiliti™ 1 Day and NaturalVue®.
Brand Comparison
All major myopia-controlling soft contact lenses and spectacle lenses with clinical evidence. Your eye doctor will recommend the best fit based on your child's prescription, age, and lifestyle.
| Brand / Product | Manufacturer | Mechanism | Age Range | Efficacy | Regulatory Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MiSight® 1 day Daily disposable | CooperVision | Dual-focus / concentric rings (ActivControl®) | 8–12 yrs (FDA approval) | ~59% progression reduction (3-yr RCT) | FDA Approved |
| Abiliti™ 1 Day Daily disposable | Johnson & Johnson Vision | Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) | 6–18 yrs | ~52% axial length reduction (2-yr study) | CE Marked |
| NaturalVue® 1 Day Daily disposable | Visioneering Technologies | Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) | 6+ yrs | ~78% axial length reduction (retrospective study) | FDA Cleared |
| Essilor® Stellest® (spectacle) Spectacle lens (HAL technology) | Essilor (EssilorLuxottica) | Highly Aspherical Lenslets (HAL) | 6–18 yrs | ~67% axial length reduction (2-yr RCT) | CE Marked |
| Zeiss MyoCare® Spectacle lens (CARE technology) | Carl Zeiss Vision | Cylindrical Annular Refractive Elements (CARE) | 6–18 yrs | ~67% axial length reduction (2-yr RCT) | CE Marked |
CooperVision · Daily disposable
Mechanism: Dual-focus / concentric rings (ActivControl®)
Age Range: 8–12 yrs (FDA approval)
Efficacy: ~59% progression reduction (3-yr RCT)
Johnson & Johnson Vision · Daily disposable
Mechanism: Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF)
Age Range: 6–18 yrs
Efficacy: ~52% axial length reduction (2-yr study)
Visioneering Technologies · Daily disposable
Mechanism: Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF)
Age Range: 6+ yrs
Essilor (EssilorLuxottica) · Spectacle lens (HAL technology)
Mechanism: Highly Aspherical Lenslets (HAL)
Age Range: 6–18 yrs
Efficacy: ~67% axial length reduction (2-yr RCT)
Carl Zeiss Vision · Spectacle lens (CARE technology)
Mechanism: Cylindrical Annular Refractive Elements (CARE)
Age Range: 6–18 yrs
Efficacy: ~67% axial length reduction (2-yr RCT)
* Efficacy figures are from peer-reviewed clinical studies. Individual results vary. This table is for educational purposes only and does not constitute an endorsement of any product. Consult a licensed eye care professional for personalized recommendations.
Key Clinical Studies
Peer-reviewed evidence supporting the efficacy of myopia-controlling soft lenses
MiSight 3-Year RCT
n=144
59% reduction in myopia progression
NaturalVue Retrospective Study
n=146
78% axial length reduction
Abiliti 1 Day 2-Year Study
n=290
52% axial length reduction
Stellest HAL 2-Year RCT
n=167
67% axial length reduction
Who Is a Good Candidate?
Most children and teens with progressing myopia are candidates — a comprehensive eye exam determines the best option
Typically Good Candidates
- Children aged 6–18 with documented myopia progression
- Myopia between -0.25D and -6.00D (varies by product)
- Able to handle and care for contact lenses
- Willing to wear lenses consistently (10+ hrs/day)
- No active eye infections or significant allergies
Discuss With Your Doctor
- High astigmatism (some lenses have limits)
- Very young children (under 6) — lens handling concerns
- History of recurrent eye infections
- Severe dry eye or lens intolerance
- Prescription outside the available lens parameters
What Does It Cost?
Costs vary by brand, practice, and insurance coverage
$800–$1,500/yr
Annual Lens Cost
Daily disposables, varies by brand
$200–$500/yr
Fitting & Follow-up
Initial fitting + 2–4 check-ups
$1,000–$2,000/yr
Total Annual Cost
Estimate; insurance may offset
Find a Specialist Near You
Not all eye doctors fit myopia-controlling contact lenses. Use our directory to find a specialist trained in myopia management.
Search the DirectoryFind soft-contacts Specialists by City
Connect with certified myopia control specialists offering soft-contacts treatment in your area.
Compare Other Proven Myopia Treatment Options
Every child is different. Explore all evidence-based options.
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Last reviewed: October 2, 2025
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Full disclaimer →