Blog

June 4, 2026June 4, 2026

Bausch + Lomb Launches Blink® Triple Care Preservative Free Lubricant Eye Drops in the U.S.

Bausch + Lomb Corporation has announced the U.S. launch of Blink® Triple Care Preservative Free eye drops, a new preservative-free lubricant eye drop designed to provide instant, long-lasting relief for dry eyes in a multi-dose bottle format.

The new product uses the same clinically proven formula as Blink Triple Care, with a preservative-free formulation designed to help reduce dryness, improve comfort and support vision quality. According to the company, Blink Triple Care Preservative Free can provide up to 10 hours of dry eye symptom relief.

The lipid-based, water-based formula is enhanced with a natural oil to help reduce tear evaporation, along with hyaluronate, a molecule found naturally in the eyes that helps support hydration. Together, these ingredients create what Bausch + Lomb describes as a dual-action moisture seal to lock in moisture and provide longer-lasting relief.

“Prolonged screen time and environmental factors are driving an increase in dry eye symptoms, and consumers are looking for products that fit their needs and preferences,” said John Ferris, president, Consumer, Bausch + Lomb. “Blink Triple Care Preservative Free provides another option within the Blink portfolio, offering the same trusted 3-in-1 extended relief as Blink Triple Care while further strengthening our position in dry eye.”

Jessilin Quint, OD, MBA, FAAO, co-owner of Smart Eye Care in Augusta, Maine, noted that the preservative-free version may be particularly useful for patients with sensitivities to preservatives.

“Because it’s a lipid-based formula, it can be especially helpful for people with evaporative dry eye,” said Dr. Quint.

Blink Triple Care Preservative Free eye drops are expected to be available in the eye care aisle and online at major U.S. retailers, including Amazon, CVS, Target and Walgreens, by the end of June 2026.

For more information, visit justblink.com.

Source: Bausch + Lomb

Want to see more like this article? Click here to subscribe to our FREE print magazines and e-newsletters!

June 4, 2026June 4, 2026

Ray-Ban and A$AP Rocky Expand the Puffer Collection for Spring/Summer 2026

Ray-Ban and A$AP Rocky are building on the momentum of the Wayfarer Puffer with the launch of the new Puffer Evolution collection for Spring/Summer 2026.

Oversized, sculptural and rooted in street culture, the collection reimagines several iconic Ray-Ban silhouettes with inflated proportions, bold volume, mirrored lenses, crystal detailing and new colourways. The expanded Puffer family includes updates to the Wayfarer, Aviator, Flacko and Kiliane styles.

The full collection is now available for eyecare professionals through my.essilorluxottica.com.

Wayfarer Puffer

The Wayfarer Puffer returns with a Spring/Summer colour refresh, bringing new energy to one of the collection’s best-selling styles. The frame features a bold sculptural shape, crystal logo detailing on the temple, silver accents and stylish mirror lenses. New colour options include 601/6Q, 601/55, 601/30, 601/7J and 601/8N.

Wayfarer Swarovski Puffer

The Swarovski Puffer adds crystal detailing to the Wayfarer-inspired silhouette, combining bold frame volume with a more elevated finish. The style features mirror lenses and crystal embellishment for a stronger statement look. New colours available include 68647J and 686430.

Ray-Ban A$AP Puffer Evolution collection for Spring/Summer 2026 Wayfarer Puffer Pave 0RB4940BP__686530 — Wayfarer Puffer Pavé

Wayfarer Puffer Pavé

This edition adds crystal pavé and gold details to the Puffer design, creating a more polished, light-catching interpretation of the Wayfarer silhouette. Designed as a statement frame, it brings a brighter, more decorative finish to the collection. New colours available include 68657J and 686530.

Ray-Ban A$AP Puffer Evolution collection for Spring/Summer 2026 Pilot Puffer 0RB4925__601_7 — Aviator Puffer

Aviator Puffer

The Aviator Puffer gives Ray-Ban’s classic pilot shape a bold new treatment. A$AP Rocky reinterprets the Aviator with a thick, rounded Puffer frame that amplifies the familiar silhouette while maintaining its heritage appeal. Colours available include 601/87, 689587, 689673, 601/80 and 601/7.

Flacko Puffer

The Flacko Puffer brings an oversized rectangular profile to the collection. Sculpted with bold volume and a puffy aesthetic, the frame blends classic structure with contemporary attitude. Colours available include 601/87, 689587, 689673, 601/80 and 601/69.

Kiliane Puffer

The Kiliane Puffer revisits the Y2K-inspired rectangular silhouette with softer edges and exaggerated proportions. Designed with A$AP Rocky’s streetwear-inflected approach, the frame delivers a high-fashion look with everyday comfort. Colours available include 601/87, 687487, 687773 and 601/80.

Click HERE for the press release.

Want to see more like this article? Click here to subscribe to our FREE print magazines and e-newsletters!

June 2, 2026June 2, 2026

Opto-Réseau Marks 30 Years of Independent Practice and Collective Strength

Opto-Réseau is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2026, marking three decades of collaboration, commitment and support for independent optometry practices across Quebec.

Since its founding, the network has advanced a model built on a clear vision: helping eye care professionals remain independent while benefiting from the strength, resources and solidarity of a collective organization.

Anniversary Year Launched in Montréal

The anniversary celebrations officially began on April 11 during the annual Claude-Léger Training Day, held at the Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth hotel in Montréal. The event brought together more than 850 members, partners and collaborators.

Hosted by Marie-Claude Barrette, the program included a keynote presentation by internationally renowned aerospace engineer Farah Alibay, along with a full day of professional development and networking.

Opto-Réseau célèbre 30 ans- événement mai 2026

Leadership Transition from Christine Breton to Mélissa Bastien

The event also marked an important leadership transition for Opto-Réseau, as Christine Breton officially passed the role of President and CEO to Mélissa Bastien.

Breton, who led the network for 25 years, leaves behind a growing organization that remains firmly rooted in its independent practice model. During the event, Opto-Réseau paid tribute to her leadership with the presentation of a work by artist Clarence Bourgoin, chosen to reflect both her personal origins and her professional journey in Quebec’s optometry sector.

Bastien, who has nearly 20 years of experience in the optical sector, joined Opto-Réseau more than three years ago as part of a planned succession process. As President and CEO, she will continue to focus on protecting and advancing the entrepreneurial model of independent clinics.

A Model Built on Independence and Solidarity

Founded 30 years ago during a period of transformation in the optical industry, Opto-Réseau was created around the idea that professional independence and collective strength could successfully coexist.

The network recognizes the important role played by its founding members and builders, including the clinics of Magog, Sherbrooke East and West, Lennoxville, Windsor, Stanstead, Waterloo and Sainte-Dorothée.

Opto-Réseau also acknowledged the contributions of past presidents François Gendron, Carole Melançon, Léo Breton, Robert Boulé and Alain Côté, as well as influential figures including Renée Guertin and Jean-Yves Roy.

Today, Opto-Réseau says it remains committed to providing high-quality eye care rooted in local communities and delivered by dedicated independent professionals.

Watch the recap video of the April 11 anniversary event here:

Click HERE for the press release.

Want to see more like this article? Click here to subscribe to our FREE print magazines and e-newsletters!

June 1, 2026June 1, 2026

WCO Announces 2026–2028 Standing Committee Chairs

The World Council of Optometry (WCO) announces the acclaimed Chairs of its Standing Committees for the 2026–2028 term.

Prof. Vanessa Moodley, Dr. Roger Jordan and Ntombikayise Zitha have been acclaimed as Chairs of the World Council of Optometry’s Standing Committees for the 2026–2028 term.

Prof. Vanessa Moodley – Education Committee Chair

Prof. Vanessa Moodley has been acclaimed as WCO Education Committee Chair for the 2026–2028 term. In her candidate statement, Prof. Moodley shared her vision for the committee to “serve as the primary global resource for support in key optometry education areas” while helping foster “the introduction and expansion of quality optometry education programs” aligned with the needs of individual countries.

Prof. Moodley brings more than 30 years of experience in optometry education, academic leadership, and professional regulation. She previously served on the WCO Legislation, Registration and Standards (LRS) Committee and most recently as Vice Chair of the WCO Education Committee. Additionally, Prof. Moodley is the founder and a current trustee of the Keratoconus Foundation of South Africa. She also served as Chair of the African Council of Optometry (AFCO)’s Education Committee from 2015–2019.

Dr. Roger Jordan – LRS Committee Chair

Dr. Roger Jordan has been acclaimed to continue serving as Chair of the WCO Legislation, Registration and Standards (LRS) Committee for the 2026–2028 term.

“My vision is to make this committee more interactive with countries and help them sooner to address their optometric needs,” said Dr. Jordan in his candidate statement. “I want to set up a system that is more responsive to country advocacy requests.”

Dr. Jordan was first elected to the role by the WCO Board of Directors in 2023 and previously served for six years on the LRS Committee as a North American Regional Representative. This term will mark his third as Chair.

He has received numerous recognitions for his advocacy work, including being named American Optometric Association (AOA) Advocate of the Year in 2014 and earning the AOA Presidential Service Award in 2023.

Ms. Ntombikayise Zitha – Public Health Committee Chair

Ms. Ntombikayise Zitha has been acclaimed to continue serving as WCO Public Health Committee Chair for the 2026–2028 term.

“My vision for the Public Health Committee is to see us reach all corners of the globe, educating and raising awareness about eye care and vision,” Ms. Zitha shared in her candidate statement. “We need to encourage participation in advocating for the profession […] leading to the prevention of blindness, early detection, and management of ocular diseases.”

Ms. Zitha was first elected as Public Health Committee Chair in 2025 and has served on the WCO Public Health Committee since 2023. She also serves in leadership roles with the South African Optometric Association (SAOA) Public Health Committee and was honored with the ASAIPA National Medical Award for Community Service in 2021.

WCO congratulates the 2026–2028 Committee Chairs and thanks all volunteers and members who continue supporting the organization’s mission to advance optometry globally through advocacy, education, and public health initiatives. WCO also extends sincere appreciation to outgoing Education Committee Chair Prof. Yazan Gammoh for his dedicated leadership and contributions over the past five years.

Applications for WCO Standing Committee Members will open June 22 – July 13, 2026.

Click HERE for the press release.

Want to see more like this article? Click here to subscribe to our FREE print magazines and e-newsletters!

May 29, 2026May 29, 2026

Vision Health Partners’ Coalition Urges Federal Investment to Establish Canada’s National Eye Care Strategy

Eight national organizations call for $10M awareness campaign and Strategic Steering Committee or risk a projected $56 billion burden by 2050

As part of Vision Health Month, the Vision Health Partners’ Coalition (VHPC) is calling on the federal government to fund implementation of Canada’s National Strategy for Eye Care (Bill C-284, Royal Assent November 2024). Speaking at the Parliamentary Press Gallery, VHPC Chair Jennifer Urosevic presented two immediate, cost-effective budget requests.

More than 2.2 million Canadians live with vision impairment, and the economic burden is projected to reach $56 billion by 2050. Yet one in three adults skips recommended eye exams, often resulting in late-stage diagnoses, that are more difficult and costly to treat. Vision loss affects children’s learning, workforce productivity, and older adults’ independence.

Recommendation 1: $10 Million National Public Awareness Campaign (5 years)

A federally funded campaign targeting three populations aligned with existing federal priorities:

– Children — early detection for school readiness and healthy development
– Working-age adults — prevention, eye exams, and the link between vision and workforce participation
– Older adults — aging in place, independence, and early detection of age-related conditions

Recommendation 2: Strategic Steering Committee

A multi-stakeholder committee including people with lived experience, clinicians, researchers, and community organizations to provide coordinated governance and ensure evidence-based implementation of the National Strategy.

“The tools are in place, the strategy exists, and Canadians are waiting. Now it is time to act and to invest,” said Jennifer Urosevic, Chair of VHPC. “Canada has a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform vision health outcomes for millions of people.”

Coordinated implementation of the strategy is needed to improve access to eye care, support earlier intervention, and help reduce preventative vision loss across Canada.