If you’re a contact lens wearer, you might have experienced dry or irritated eyes at one point. In such situations, using eye drops can provide relief and improve your comfort while wearing contact lenses.
Using eye drops with contact lenses is generally safe, but there are a few key considerations to keep in mind. There are different types of eye drops that can be used with contact lenses. Some eye drops are specifically formulated for contact lens wearers and are labeled as “contact lens friendly.” These types of eye drops contain ingredients that won’t harm or damage your contacts.
Other types of eye drops, such as those for allergies or redness relief, may not be suitable for use with contact lenses. It’s important to read the label carefully and make sure the eye drops you’re using are safe for contact lens wear.
Types of Eye Drops for Contact Lenses
As mentioned before, there are different types of eye drops that can be used with contact lenses, each serving a unique purpose to improve eye comfort and lens care. Here are the most common types and their uses:
Rewetting Drops
These eye drops are specially formulated to add moisture to your eyes and contact lenses. They help to reduce dryness, irritation, and discomfort, especially for those who wear lenses for extended periods. Rewetting drops can enhance your overall wearing experience and are ideal for use throughout the day as needed.
Lubricating/Artificial Tears Drops
Similar to rewetting drops, these provide an extra layer of lubrication for dry or irritated eyes caused by prolonged lens wear or environmental factors like air conditioning or screen use. They help to alleviate the gritty, uncomfortable feeling that can come with dryness and are safe to use alongside your lenses.
Multi-Purpose Solution
This all-in-one solution is used for cleaning, disinfecting, rinsing, and storing contact lenses. Beyond keeping your lenses free of harmful bacteria and debris, multi-purpose solutions also help retain moisture, ensuring a more comfortable fit. Regular use is essential to maintain the cleanliness and hygiene of your lenses.
Saline Solution
A simple salt-water solution, saline is used for rinsing and storing contact lenses. While it effectively removes dirt and debris, it is not intended for cleaning or disinfecting lenses. Saline solution can be a helpful addition to your lens care routine, especially if you have sensitive eyes that react to other solutions.
Prescription Eye Drops
These are typically prescribed to treat specific eye conditions, such as glaucoma, dry eye syndrome, or allergies. They often contain active ingredients to target these conditions directly. It’s crucial to follow your eye doctor’s guidance when using prescription drops, as some may not be compatible with contact lenses and could require you to remove your lenses before application.
How to Know if Eye Drops are Safe for Contact Lenses
When choosing eye drops to use with your contact lenses, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Look for the label: As mentioned before, look for eye drops that are labeled as “contact lens friendly” or “safe for contact lenses.” These will have gentle ingredients that won’t harm your contacts.
- Avoid redness relief and allergy eye drops: These types of eye drops may contain preservatives that can damage your contacts. If you need these types of eye drops, remove your contacts first and wait at least 15 minutes before putting them back in.
- Check expiration dates: Just like any other medication, eye drops can expire. Using expired eye drops can cause irritation and discomfort, so always check the expiration date before use.
- Consult with your eye doctor: If you are unsure about which eye drops to use or have any concerns, it’s always best to consult with your eye doctor. They can recommend specific brands or types of eye drops that are safe for your particular type of contacts.
Some Tips for Properly Using Eye Drops with Contact Lenses
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when using eye drops with contact lenses:
- Wash your hands before handling your contacts and applying eye drops.
- Only use sterile products specifically designed for contact lenses.
- Tilt your head back slightly and pull down on your lower eyelid to create a pocket for the drops.
- Place one drop into the pocket and blink a few times to evenly distribute the drops.
- Wait at least 15 minutes before putting your contacts back in, unless otherwise directed by your eye doctor.
- If using multiple eye drops, wait at least 5 minutes between each type of drop.
- Never let the dropper tip touch your eye or any other surface to avoid contamination.
- Use caution when driving or operating machinery after using eye drops that may cause temporary blurriness.
Discover Better Eye Care Solutions at Vision Care Center
Properly using eye drops can help keep your eyes healthy and comfortable while wearing contacts. It’s also important to regularly replace your contact lenses as directed by your eye doctor and never share or borrow someone else’s eye drops to avoid potential infections or complications.At Vision Care Center, we’re here to help you find the right contact lenses and guide you on the best way to use eye drops for your specific needs. Your eye health is important to us, and we’re committed to making sure you have the care and products that work best for you. Don’t hesitate to schedule an appointment with us today. We’d love to support you in keeping your eyes healthy and comfortable.
