Clear vision
India's growing eye care market
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As digitisation accelerates and ageing populations rise, eye health is becoming a priority, with research suggesting almost everyone will face vision challenges in their lifetime. In India, increasing screen time and shifting lifestyles are fuelling demand for contact lenses that go beyond medical correction, offering protection and prevention.
Advances in production and distribution are making high-quality eye care more affordable and available. Between FY23 and FY25, eyewear company Lenskart expanded its total store count from 1,959 to 2,723, with the Indian market accounting for over 80% of this growth
According to the India Optical Lens Market Outlook to 2030 and India Contact Lens Market Outlook to 2030 reports by Ken Research, demand is growing among urban professionals, students and image-conscious consumers. Contact lenses are now evolving beyond prescription or cosmetic use, with innovations including UV filters, blue light protection and scratch-resistant coatings.
Coloured lenses are increasingly popular for social occasions and content creation. South Korea, a major player in coloured contacts, has strongly influenced India’s youth over the past decade through the Korean wave. At the same time, rising disposable incomes reframe coloured contacts as fashion accessories and outlets for self-expression. However, function remains key. Providing both utility and style, Swedish-Indian brand SWATI Cosmetics blends natural-looking colour with eye protection, recently launching at Sephora India.
INSIGHTS & OPPORTUNITIES
Hybrid Innovation: There’s demand for products that fuse medical-grade protection with fashion appeal. Brands that prioritise health and aesthetics will win Gen Z consumers who won’t compromise on either.
Market Expansion: As access improves via players like Lenskart, there’s space for tiered offerings (premium, mid-range, entry-level) to serve both aspirational and practical needs, broadening the consumer base beyond metro cities.
Aspiration: Collaborations with pop culture figures could amplify adoption and build loyalty, moving contacts from a medical aid to a status symbol.
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