Daily disposable contact lenses have had tremendous growth over the past 25 years. From a very niche product to very mainstream in a relatively short period of time. When looking at a typical product life cycle curve (Figure 1), this product is still very strongly in the “growth” phase. So, what’s next?
With my experience in this industry over the years, here are some expectations for growth with daily disposable contact lenses:
- Expanded powers. After a manufacturer has developed a good product and it has created a foundation, it turns into a “workhorse” product for eyecare professionals. Many of the workhorse products with the highest utilization will often be developed in expanded powers. This will enable more and more patients to make the shift into daily disposable lens wear.
- Improved materials. Most, if not all, contact lens manufacturers are constantly looking to develop the next best thing. It could be improved oxygen permeability or increased comfort or increased moisture or something we have not even thought about. This new product may create a shift in prescribing habits and continue to grow the daily disposable market.
- Expanded designs. This may be something along the lines of improving the design or optics with single vision or improving the stability and comfort of toric lens designs. Expanding the designs of presbyopic daily disposable lenses have a tremendous opportunity for growth and 1-day disposable toric multifocal designs are just beginning. Most design changes or improvements are well received and creates more opportunities for growing the daily disposable market.
I love to look at “what’s next”! This helps me prepare and look for patients who may benefit from the next best thing. Continue to look for expansion of powers, improved materials and designs within the daily disposable market. These changes will continue the growth for this industry for the next 25 years.
This content is supported by Johnson & Johnson.