Best Eye Drops for Dry Eyes for Contact Lens Wearers
Dry eyes are common for people who wear contact lenses, making contact lens eye drops a necessity for many. Lenses can affect the tear film. Screen time and dry air make dryness more noticeable.
Common symptoms include dryness, irritation, a gritty feeling, redness and lenses becoming less comfortable as the day progresses. Eye drops for contact lens wearers can help relieve these symptoms, but it is important to choose a product that is suitable for use with your particular type of contact lenses.
Why Can Contact Lenses Cause Dry Eyes?
The tear film keeps the surface of the eye moist and helps contact lenses remain comfortable. Wearing contact lenses can change the way the tear film behaves and may increase tear evaporation in some people.
Other factors can also contribute to dry eyes while wearing contact lenses:
- Spending long periods looking at computers, smartphones or other screens
- Blinking less frequently when concentrating
- Wearing contact lenses for long periods
- Dry, heated or air-conditioned indoor environments
- Wind, dust or other environmental conditions
- A contact lens material or design that is not ideal for your eyes
Regular dryness may require a checkup. See an optician to review your lens fit, material and wearing schedule.
Which Eye Drops Can You Use with Contact Lenses?
Many eye drops help dry eyes. However, not all products work while wearing lenses. Check the instructions for contact lens compatibility.
Lubricating and Rewetting Eye Drops
Lubricating drops, or artificial tears, add moisture. Rewetting drops improve comfort during the day. They help when lenses feel dry.
Some drops can be applied while the lenses are being worn, while others require the lenses to be removed first. Follow the instructions for the specific product you use.
Hyaluronic Acid Eye Drops
Hyaluronic acid binds water to keep the eye moist. It provides longer-lasting lubrication. This is useful for recurring dryness.
However, the presence of hyaluronic acid alone does not mean that a product can automatically be used with contact lenses. Check that the particular eye drops are approved or recommended for use with lenses.
Lipid-Based Eye Drops
Lipids in the tear film reduce evaporation. Lipid-based drops support this layer. They help when tear evaporation causes dry eyes.
Some lipid-based formulations are not designed to be used while contact lenses are in place. You may need to remove your lenses before applying them and wait before reinserting them, depending on the product instructions.
How to Choose Eye Drops for Contact Lens Wearers
The most important consideration is compatibility with your contact lenses. Do not assume that any artificial tears or dry-eye drops can be used while wearing lenses.
When choosing eye drops, consider the following:
- Look for products specifically labelled for use with contact lenses
- Check whether the lenses can remain in your eyes during application
- Follow the recommended number of drops and frequency of use
- Consider preservative-free drops if you need frequent lubrication or have sensitive eyes
- Avoid using redness-relief or medicated eye drops with contact lenses unless the product instructions or an eye care professional say that it is appropriate
Do not rely only on lubrication. Investigate the underlying cause if you need drops to tolerate your lenses.
Other Ways to Reduce Dry Eyes with Contact Lenses
Eye drops can provide relief, but changing a few habits may also improve contact lens comfort.
- Take regular breaks when working at a screen
- Make a conscious effort to blink fully and frequently
- Avoid wearing contact lenses longer than recommended
- Replace reusable lenses according to their replacement schedule
- Clean and care for reusable lenses according to the manufacturer's instructions
- Consider using a humidifier if indoor air is particularly dry
- Have your contact lenses checked if dryness or discomfort occurs frequently
Some people may also find that another contact lens material, replacement schedule or lens design provides better comfort. An optician can assess whether changing lenses is appropriate.
When Should You Remove Your Contact Lenses?
Remove lenses if you have pain, redness, or light sensitivity. Do not just add drops if symptoms are severe.
Seek advice if symptoms continue after removing lenses. Contact an optician, eye doctor or qualified professional.
Eye Drops and Contact Lenses: What to Remember
The right product makes lenses more comfortable. Use drops specifically for contact lens wearers. Always follow the usage instructions.
Persistent dry eyes may also indicate that your contact lenses, wearing habits or tear film should be assessed. Treating the cause as well as the symptoms can provide better long-term comfort than relying on eye drops alone.