Which type of contact lenses can effectively correct astigmatism?

Toric and rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses are specifically designed to correct astigmatism. Astigmatism is caused by an irregular curvature of the cornea or lens, which leads to distorted or blurred vision. Toric lenses have two different powers in different meridians of the lens, allowing them to compensate for the unique shape of a person's eye. This design effectively stabilizes the lens on the eye, ensuring that it stays in the correct position to correct the refractive error associated with astigmatism.

Rigid gas permeable lenses, while not inherently toric, can be manufactured to have toric designs as well, making them highly effective for astigmatism. They provide clear vision by maintaining their shape on the cornea and allowing for crisp and sharp visual acuity.

Other types of lenses listed, such as spherical and soft, are generally used for correcting myopia or hyperopia, but they do not provide the necessary correction for astigmatism. Aspheric and multifocal lenses cater to different vision needs, primarily presbyopia, and single vision and progressive lenses are also not tailored for astigmatism correction. Therefore, the combination of toric and rigid lens designs is essential for effectively