Alcon Survey Reveals Gap Between Parental Interest in Contact Lenses and Teen Usage

New research from Alcon, conducted by Wakefield between April 1 and 8, 2026, highlights a disparity between parental perceptions of contact lens benefits and actual usage among US teens and young adults aged 13 to 25. While 70% of parents believe contact lenses could benefit their children, only 23% of those needing vision correction currently wear them. Parents cited improved appearance (43%), convenience (30%), and sports performance (30%) as key advantages, with 81% considering age 13 or older appropriate for initiation. The study also revealed awareness gaps: half of parents expressed only moderate confidence in noticing vision problems, and 21% believed their children would not report visual difficulties. Additionally, three-quarters of parents noted daily screen use exceeding three hours, raising concerns about myopia progression.