TL;DR
- Regard is an all-in-one solution from AVIZOR for soft contact lenses.
- An all-in-one solution cleans, disinfects, rinses and stores the lens in a single product.
- Regard is intended for daily use in the storage case, in accordance with the wear time specified by the manufacturer.
- The composition and suitability for each lens material are set out in the manufacturer’s European product documentation.
- SMEYEL supplies Regard to opticians, optometrists, contact lens specialists and eye care practices.
Regard lens solution is an all-in-one solution from AVIZOR for cleaning, disinfecting, rinsing and storing soft contact lenses. For the specialist who stocks and recommends Regard, the main question is what sets the product apart from other all-in-one solutions and when it is the right choice. In this blog, we’ll cover how it works, how to use it, the types of lenses Regard is designed for, and its place within the lens care range. We describe the product objectively and compare it with the alternatives, so that you can provide well-informed advice at the counter. You can read about what contact lens solution does in general in the blog ‘What is contact lens solution?’. We do not specify the exact composition or contact time here, as these are detailed in the manufacturer’s product documentation for each individual product.
What is Regard lens solution?
Regard is an all-in-one solution from AVIZOR for soft contact lenses. An all-in-one solution cleans, disinfects, rinses and stores the lens in a single product, so a separate cleaner is not required. Regard is intended for daily use in the storage case. The manufacturer specifies in the product documentation the recommended wear time and the lens materials for which the product is suitable.
Regard is part of the AVIZOR brand and falls into the category of all-in-one solutions for soft lenses. SMEYEL supplies the product to the opticians’ sector on a business-to-business basis. Full product information can be found on the Regard product page, and the brand’s wider range is available on the AVIZOR brand page.
How does the Regard formula work?
The way Regard works is described in the AVIZOR product documentation. The solution combines the functions of cleaning, disinfecting, rinsing and storage in a single solution, formulated specifically for soft lens materials. The manufacturer sets out in the package leaflet which ingredients are responsible for this and how long the solution must be left to work. Follow these instructions, as the product is only effective when used for the prescribed contact time.
In this context, ‘disinfecting’ means that the solution renders microorganisms on the lens harmless, and the ‘contact time’ is the minimum period during which the lens must remain in the solution before this process is complete. The principle of action therefore differs from that of a peroxide system: with a peroxide system, the solution must first be completely neutralised before the lens can be placed on the eye, whereas an all-in-one solution such as Regard remains directly in the storage case. Contact lenses and lens solutions are medical devices, and the mandatory usage information is provided with the product. Please only note the exact ingredients and percentages after consulting the manufacturer’s documentation.
Which lenses is Regard designed for?
Regard is intended for soft contact lenses. The exact materials for which the product is suitable are listed in the AVIZOR product documentation. Please check this information before recommending the product for a specific lens material. For rigid gas-permeable lenses, use a product specifically designed for them, as rigid gas-permeable lenses require a different formulation to soft lenses.
A soft lens is flexible and absorbs moisture, allowing it to mould to the shape of the eye; a rigid lens is firmer and retains its own shape. This difference in material determines which solution is suitable. If you use rigid lenses, please refer to the category for rigid lens solutions as an alternative. For the exact suitability of Regard for each lens material, please consult the manufacturer’s product documentation.
How do you use Regard as part of your daily routine?
Follow the instructions in the leaflet. First, wash and dry your hands. Place the lens in the palm of your hand, apply the solution, rub the lens as instructed and rinse it with the same solution. Then place the lens in a clean case containing fresh solution and observe the wearing time specified by the manufacturer. Never top up a case with leftover solution.
These are also the instructions you would give to a contact lens wearer in practice: wash your hands, rub the lenses, rinse them, pour fresh solution into a clean case and wait for the recommended soaking time before putting the lenses back in. It is best to provide these steps in writing. These general care steps are in line with the manufacturer’s instructions. The precise amount of solution and the exact contact time are specified in the package leaflet for each pack.
When would you recommend Regard for sensitive eyes?
For wearers who have a sensitive reaction to a care product, the specialist will examine the composition of the solution and the preservatives it contains. The substances contained in Regard and whether the product is preservative-free are set out in the AVIZOR product documentation. Determine the appropriate advice for each wearer based on this information, and assess the effect at their next check-up at the practice.
A preservative is a substance that extends a product’s shelf life and prevents the growth of micro-organisms; for a small proportion of wearers, a care product may cause irritation. Symptoms that may be associated with a reaction to a care product are described in the information on symptoms associated with lens use. If a wearer has a sensitive reaction, you can look for an alternative amongst the all-in-one solutions for soft lenses. Arrange a check-up to assess the effect of a product change, as follow-up care is an essential part of the process.
Why is water not a viable alternative, even with Regard?
Even with an all-in-one solution, water should not be part of your routine. Water does not disinfect and may contain micro-organisms that can attach themselves to the lens, as research by the RIVM has shown. Do not dilute the solution with water, do not rinse the lens with it and do not use it to top up the lens case. Use only the solution itself, in the quantity and for the contact time specified by the manufacturer. You can read more about this in the blog post ‘Cleaning lenses with water’.
Regard within SMEYEL range of care products
Within the range, Regard sits alongside the other all-in-one solutions for soft lenses and alongside the peroxide systems. An all-in-one solution is suitable for practices and wearers who want a simple, daily routine with a product that remains in the case. A peroxide system is suitable for wearers who prefer a preservative-free solution during the storage phase, with a neutralisation step. You can determine which option is best suited to which practice and which wearer based on the product documentation and the wearer’s needs.
Full product information for Regard can be found on the Regard product page, the brand on the AVIZOR brand page, and similar products in the ‘all-in-one solutions for soft lenses’ category. View the product information for details per pack, and log in to place a business order via ‘Quick Order’. Pack contents, prices and stock status are listed in the product database.
This information is of a general nature and is not a substitute for personal advice. If you have any concerns or are in any doubt, please consult your contact lens specialist, optician or (eye) doctor.
Frequently asked questions about Regard lens solution
What does ‘all-in-one’ mean when it comes to contact lens solution?
This means that the product combines the functions of cleaning, disinfecting, rinsing and storage. A separate cleaner or neutralising tablet is not required. The manufacturer describes which steps the user still needs to carry out manually, such as rubbing and rinsing. These manual steps are part of the process and must not be skipped: rubbing loosens dirt and rinsing removes it. The solution then takes over the disinfection and storage process in the case. This keeps the routine simple, whilst ensuring the lens still undergoes a full cleaning and disinfection cycle. The precise steps and contact time are set out in the product leaflet.
Can Regard be used with rigid gas-permeable lenses?
Rigid gas-permeable lenses require products specifically designed for them. Check the AVIZOR product documentation before recommending Regard for any other type of lens; otherwise, choose a product from the rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lens category. The material of a rigid gas-permeable lens differs from that of a soft lens, and the solutions are tailored to the specific material. Using a solution intended for soft lenses with a rigid gas-permeable lens without the manufacturer’s authorisation constitutes an untested combination. Advise the wearer on the product suitable for their specific lens and explain why they cannot simply switch between systems. If in doubt, refer to the product documentation.
How long does Regard remain usable after opening?
The shelf life after opening is stated on the packaging and in the package leaflet. Advise wearers to write the date of opening on the bottle and to replace the bottle after the specified period, even if there is still solution left in it. Once opened, the solution has a limited shelf life, as sterility is then compromised. The specified period varies by product, so always refer the wearer to the package leaflet for their own bottle. Do not use a bottle that has been open for longer than permitted, even if the liquid still looks fine. This ensures the reliability of the disinfection and prevents unnecessary complaints.
Can you use Regard alongside a separate cleaner?
Only if the manufacturer specifies that combination. Do not combine products on your own initiative, as this may affect their effectiveness or tolerability. Follow the product instructions. An all-in-one solution is designed to clean, disinfect, rinse and store the lenses on its own, so an additional cleaner is not usually necessary. If you do wish to use an additional product in a specific case, check the package leaflet to see if the manufacturer mentions that combination. If not, stick to the prescribed routine. If you have any questions about the correct combination for a specific lens, consult the supplier or refer to the AVIZOR product documentation.
What is the difference between Regard and a peroxide system?
An all-in-one solution works by remaining in the case. A peroxide system disinfects using hydrogen peroxide, which must first be neutralised before the lens can be worn. The choice depends on the wearer and the lens. With Regard, after rubbing and rinsing the lens, you place it in fresh solution and wait for the contact time to elapse. With a peroxide system, the solution undergoes a neutralisation phase using a dedicated case, and only once this is complete is the lens safe to wear. Both systems disinfect, but using different principles. You determine which system is suitable for each wearer based on sensitivity, convenience and the product documentation.
Is Regard suitable for scleral lenses?
Scleral lenses require products specifically designed for that type of lens. Consult the product documentation and consider a system recommended by the manufacturer for scleral lenses. Scleral lenses are larger than standard soft or rigid lenses and require a case with larger compartments and a system tailored to the lens. Therefore, do not assume that a standard solution is sufficient; instead, check which product the manufacturer recommends for this type of lens. Do not switch between systems or cases without good reason. If you are unsure about the correct combination for a scleral lens, consult the supplier or a specialist, and follow the product information for the chosen system.
How much solution do you use per storage cycle?
Fill the container up to the line indicated by the manufacturer, so that the lens is completely submerged. Always use fresh solution and discard the used solution after inserting the lenses. A lens that is not fully submerged in the solution may dry out and become misshapen, and disinfection cannot then be guaranteed. Therefore, fill the case sufficiently, but do not save the remaining solution for the next storage cycle. Topping up dilutes the active ingredient and results in unreliable storage. Empty the case, rinse it with the recommended solution and refill it with fresh solution for the next storage cycle. This ensures that every storage cycle is reliable.
What should you do if you experience a burning sensation after inserting a Regard lens?
Remove the lens and do not wear it any further. Check that the correct solution and wearing time have been used. If the symptoms persist, an assessment by an optician, optometrist or ophthalmologist is required. A burning sensation may indicate an insufficiently rinsed lens, a contact time that is too short or sensitivity to the product. If in doubt, do not rinse with water but use the recommended solution, and do not reinsert the lens until the cause is clear. If a wearer has persistent symptoms, refer them to the appropriate professional. Do not continue to wear the lens in the hope that the symptoms will resolve themselves.
How do you advise a contact lens wearer who is switching to Regard?
Explain the new routine step by step, provide written instructions and schedule a follow-up appointment. During that appointment, assess the comfort and condition of the lens and the case. Switching to a different care product changes the daily routine, so take the time to go through the steps: clean hands, rubbing, rinsing, fresh solution and wear time. Draw the wearer’s attention to the package leaflet and the shelf life after opening. During the check-up, check that the wearer is following the routine correctly and that the lens and case look in good condition. This allows you to identify any complaints at an early stage and confirm that the product is suitable for the wearer.
How does a practice order Regard from SMEYEL?
Practices place business orders via their logged-in account. Please contact SMEYEL if you have any questions about the available packaging options or product documentation. You can find product information on the product page, and place your order via your business account. If you do not yet have an account or have any questions about the Regard packaging options available, SMEYEL will be happy to assist you. For specific enquiries regarding composition, suitability for different lens materials or wearing time, please refer to the manufacturer’s European product documentation, which SMEYEL can provide on request. This ensures you have the correct information at the counter to advise the wearer.
