HEMA Contact Lens Explained: What It Is And The Brands That Use It - eyeSTYLE blog Lens.com (2025)

Not all contact lenses are made the same and one big difference lies in the material. If you’ve ever looked closely at your lens packaging or specs, you might’ve seen something called HEMA, which stands for hydroxyethyl methacrylate.

HEMA is one of the most commonly used materials in soft contact lenses. It’s been trusted for years and is still used by several well-known brands today. While it might not be the newest tech on the block, HEMA contact lens material still holds its own in terms of comfort and affordability.

Let’s break down what is HEMA contact lens, why some brands still use it, and whether it’s a good match for your eyes.

HEMA, or hydroxyethyl methacrylate, is a type of soft plastic that absorbs water and becomes flexible. It was one of the first materials used to make soft contact lenses and has been around since the 1970s.

What makes HEMA contact lens material unique is its ability to hold moisture. Most lenses made with this material contain between 38% and 60% water. That water content helps the lens stay soft and wearable at least for a few hours at a time.

Because it’s affordable and easy to work with, HEMA is still found in many daily and bi-weekly lenses. It’s a practical option, especially for people who wear lenses occasionally or for shorter periods each day.

HEMA contact lenses absorb water and stay soft while on your eyes. Once hydrated, the material conforms to your eye’s shape and provides a comfortable fit.

Most contact lens HEMA types hold a decent amount of water, but higher moisture content can also make them dry out faster especially in dry or air-conditioned environments.

Since hydroxyethyl methacrylate has lower oxygen permeability compared to newer materials like silicone hydrogel, it’s generally best suited for short-term, daily wear.

Like any lens material, HEMA contact lens material has its pros and cons. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Pros

• Soft and comfortable for short-term wear
  
• Usually more affordable than newer lens materials
  
• Easy to handle and insert
  

Cons

• Allows less oxygen to reach the eye compared to newer materials
  
• May dry out more quickly during the day
• Not designed for extended or overnight wear

Several brands still use HEMA contact lens material in their designs, especially for daily and bi-weekly lenses. Here are a few examples:

1. SofLens 38 (Bausch + Lomb)

SofLens 38 is made with polymacon, a hydrogel material based on hydroxyethyl methacrylate. It features a thin design for daily comfort and sharp vision. These lenses are approved for daily wear and must be removed at night. They’re known for resisting deposits and are great for users who want a simple, dependable lens.

• Lens type: 1-2 Week Disposable
• Oxygen transmissibility: 24 Dk/t
• Replacement schedule: Monthly

2. Biomedics 55 Premier Asphere (CooperVision)

The Coopervision Biomedics 55 Premier Asphere is a soft lens made from ocufilcon D, a HEMA-based hydrogel. It has a rounded edge design that improves comfort and reduces friction against the eyelid. It also helps correct spherical aberration, giving you clearer, more stable vision throughout the day.

• Lens type: 1-2 Week Disposable
• Oxygen transmissibility: 28.1 Dk/t
• Replacement schedule: 2 weeks

3. Proclear 1 Day (CooperVision)

Proclear 1 Day uses omafilcon A, a hydrogel blend that includes HEMA. It’s designed to retain moisture all day, making it a strong choice for wearers who experience dryness. Since it’s a daily disposable, there’s no need to clean or store it—just wear and toss.

• Lens type: Daily disposable
• Oxygen transmissibility: 37 Dk/t
• Replacement schedule: Daily

4. FreshLook ColorBlends (Alcon)

FreshLook ColorBlends contact lenses are made with phemfilcon A, a type of contact lens HEMA material. These lenses offer a unique 3-in-1 color blending technology to enhance or change your natural eye color. They’re comfortable for daily use and replaced monthly.

• Lens type: Color Disposable
• Oxygen transmissibility: 16 Dk/t
• Replacement schedule: 2 Weeks

5. DAILIES AquaComfort Plus (Alcon)

DAILIES AquaComfort Plus 90 pack lenses use nelfilcon A, a hydrogel that includes hydroxyethyl methacrylate. These daily disposables are designed with a triple-action moisturizing system to keep your eyes refreshed with every blink. They’re a great pick for anyone who wants convenience and all-day comfort.

• Lens type: Daily disposable
• Oxygen transmissibility: 26 Dk/t
• Replacement schedule: Daily

HEMA contact lenses might not be the latest innovation, but they’re still a reliable option if you value comfort, affordability, and simple wear schedules. There are plenty of HEMA-based options that can meet your needs.

But finding the right lens is only half the matter. Where you buy your lenses matters, too.

That’s why it’s smart to choose a trusted retailer like Lens.com. Not only can you find authentic brands at competitive prices, but you also get access to helpful tools, rebates, and fast shipping all in one place.