USA Contact Lenses Market Outlook to 2028

USA Contact Lenses Market Overview

• The USA Contact Lenses Market, is valued at USD 2.96 billion. This market is driven primarily by increasing awareness of vision health and growing demand for both corrective and cosmetic lenses. The rise in cases of myopia and hyperopia, particularly among younger populations, has fueled the growth in demand for contact lenses.

• The USA remains a dominant force in the contact lenses market, with key cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago driving demand. These regions are home to a high concentration of urban populations, where there is greater access to optometrists, retail outlets, and healthcare services.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) launched a nationwide Vision Health Initiative in 2024, aimed at raising awareness about eye health, proper lens usage, and regular eye exams. The initiative includes partnerships with public health organizations, aiming to reach 30 million Americans by the end of the year and encouraging them to consider contact lenses as a viable option for vision correction.

USA Contact Lenses Market Segmentation

By Product Type: The market is segmented by product type into soft lenses, rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, hybrid lenses, scleral lenses, and others. Soft lenses dominate the market due to their superior comfort, ease of use, and accessibility. Brands like Acuvue and Alcon's Dailies have established a solid foothold by offering products that address both convenience and affordability, making them a preferred option among consumers.

By Usage: The market is also segmented by usage into daily disposable, weekly disposable, monthly disposable, and extended wear lenses. Daily disposable lenses hold the largest share due to the increasing preference for hassle-free, hygienic solutions. With no need for cleaning or storage, these lenses offer convenience to busy consumers and reduce the risk of infections.

USA Contact Lenses Market Competitive Landscape

The market is characterized by the presence of both global giants and specialized manufacturers. The market is dominated by a few major players who leverage strong distribution networks, innovative product offerings, and strategic partnerships to maintain their positions. Key players include:

USA Contact Lenses Market Analysis

Market Growth Drivers

• Aging Population and Increasing Eye Disorders: According to the U.S. Census Bureau, by 2024, the population aged 65 and older is projected to reach 54 million, an increase from 50 million in 2020. This demographic shift is leading to higher incidences of presbyopia, a common eye condition that can be corrected by multifocal or bifocal contact lenses. Furthermore, reports from the National Eye Institute indicate that over 16 million Americans suffer from visual impairments that may require contact lens correction, boosting demand for prescription lenses.
• Rising Prevalence of Myopia in Younger Population: Data from the American Optometric Association suggests that more than 34 million children in the U.S. are expected to suffer from myopia by 2024, driven by factors such as increased screen time and reduced outdoor activities. The growing awareness of corrective options, including specialized contact lenses such as orthokeratology lenses (Ortho-K), has created opportunities for lens manufacturers targeting this younger segment.
• Shift in Consumer Preferences Toward Daily Disposable Contact Lenses: The preference for daily disposable contact lenses is rising significantly due to the convenience and hygiene benefits they offer. In 2024, manufacturers reported an increase of over 8 million units sold in the daily disposable segment compared to reusable lenses, a trend propelled by concerns over eye infections associated with poor lens hygiene. This shift has been particularly prominent in urban centers like New York and Los Angeles, with strong consumer preference towards single-use lenses.

Market Challenges

• Rising Incidents of Dry Eye and Lens Discomfort: According to the National Eye Institute, dry eye syndrome affects over 16 million Americans, with a number of them reporting discomfort while wearing contact lenses. This has led to a 20% decline in the use of contact lenses among this population in recent years, prompting manufacturers to invest in developing more breathable and comfortable materials.
• Lack of Insurance Coverage for Contact Lenses: In 2024, over 80 million Americans with vision correction needs had limited insurance coverage for contact lenses, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). Most insurance plans only cover eyeglasses, leaving a substantial out-of-pocket cost for contact lenses. This financial barrier has slowed the adoption of contact lenses in favor of glasses among price-sensitive consumers.

USA Contact Lenses Market Future Outlook

Over the next five years, the USA Contact Lenses industry is expected to witness growth. Several factors will contribute to this trajectory, including technological advancements in contact lens materials and the introduction of smart lenses that integrate augmented reality and health monitoring capabilities.

Future Market Opportunities

• Growing Demand for Multifocal Lenses in Aging Population: By 2029, the U.S. population over the age of 65 is expected to reach 60 million, further driving demand for multifocal contact lenses as presbyopia becomes more prevalent. This demographic shift will prompt manufacturers to develop more advanced lenses that cater specifically to the elderly, increasing the availability of lenses designed for prolonged wear and enhanced comfort.
• Advancement in Smart Contact Lens Technology: The market for smart contact lenses is expected to grow exponentially over the next five years, with projections indicating over 1 million units in circulation by 2029. These lenses, featuring AR capabilities, glucose monitoring for diabetic patients, and real-time health data, will attract tech-savvy consumers and revolutionize the way contact lenses are used in everyday life.