History of Contact Lenses
Different kinds of lenses have been used for centuries to correct eye vision. The first eyeglasses were apparently developed by Salvino D'Armante around 1284 in Pisa, Italy, however some like to credit Alessandro Spina from Firenze with this invention.
The first eyeglasses were used to correct myopia (nearsightedness). Glasses for farsightedness were not made until the 15th century.
Leonardo da Vinci drew sketches of contact lenses as early as 1508. In the 1820s Sir John Herschel, a British astronomer, suggested a lens that would fit one's eye shape exactly. However, creating a mold of the eye shape proved impossible before the invention of anesthesia.
A German manufacturer of glass eyes, F.A. Müller, created in 1887 a transparent lens to protect a damaged eyeball. The first real contact lenses were made in 1888 by Swiss physician A. Eugen Fick and Parisian optic Edouard Kalt, each on their own. The honor is usually attributed to Fick, who first created molds of rabbit eyes and later manufactured lenses for himself. According to historical records, these first lenses were extremely uncomfortable and he was able to use them for only two hours.
As techniques developed, the lenses became better fitting. However, the material used was still glass, which deprived the eye of oxygen and increased the risk of infections.
Part 2/2: Modern contact lenses
| Contact Lens Blog |
- Smart Contact Lenses to Replace Eye-Drops
- Contact Lens Anti-biotics for Soldiers Being Developed
- Strange Alternatives to Cleaning Lotion
- Study Proves Zeaxanthin Reverses Sight Problems in the Elderly
- Almost Legally Blind Man Sees Again Thanks to Implantable Contact Lenses
| Editor’s Picks |
Many dogs and cats have cataracts. A German technology makes vision correction possible for animals using an interocular lens.
Contact Lenses for Animals
Amblyopia, or lazy eye, can be treated discreetly with contact lenses. No kid wants a patch!
Bye Bye Lazy Eyes
Vanity lenses look great but are not without dangers. Read how to prevent problems.
Avoid These Risks
Sunglasses are not always enough. Use contact lenses to block harmful UV radiation.
UV Blocking Contacts
Continuous wear contact lenses are great, but have been blamed for eye infections. Do new materials help?
Continuously Careful
The eye can handle the strain of contact lenses even at a surprisingly young age. What about the patient?
Contacts for Children- Contact lenses could help stop teenager myopia from getting worse.
Stop Adolescent Myopia 
Can contact lenses be used safely in the swimming pool or in the sauna?
Contacts in the Pool- Make your contact lenses last longer with proper care.
Extending Lens Life - Keep your eyes healthy with these easy-to-follow rules.
9 Health Rules 
Contact lenses are often blamed for dry eyes. Choose the right lenses and suffer no more.
Prevent Dry Eyes- Laser eye surgery has grown in popularity. We compared it to using contact lenses.
LASIK vs. Contacts - Coloured lenses can enhance your appearance dramatically.
See Better, Look Better