History of Lens Care Products in Japan: Insights From Advertisements in the Journal of the Japan Contact Lens Society for 65 Years

Abstract

This review examines the history of contact lens (CL) care products, particularly focusing on hard contact lenses (HCLs) like those made from polymethyl methacrylate and rigid gas permeable (RGP) materials. Although literature on CL history is extensive, there is limited information on the history of CL care products, especially in Japan. This review uses advertisements from the Journal of the Japan Contact Lens Society from 1959 to 2023 to trace the evolution of these products. The early HCL care primarily involved simple cleaning with dishwashing liquids because of the robust nature of polymethyl methacrylate lenses. Advertisements for care products became more prevalent with the introduction of RGP lenses that are more prone to dirt and deposit buildup. The first significant advertisements for HCL care products appeared in 1968, with notable products highlighting advancements in cleaning, rinsing, and storing solutions. The introduction of soft contact lenses in Japan in 1972 necessitated new care methods, such as boiling disinfection. Over the years, the market saw the introduction of various multipurpose solutions and specialized cleaning agents, although the number of advertisements for these products has declined since the late 1990s. Economic factors and changes in the CL industry have influenced the advertising trends observed in the journal. Despite the decline in market share for RGP lenses, they remain essential for specific conditions like keratoconus, some corneal disorders with irregular astigmatism, and moderate to high astigmatism. This review underscores the ongoing need for effective CL care products and the role of advertisements in documenting their history.