Dry eyes and contact lenses don’t always get along. From screen time to dry air, even small daily habits can leave your eyes feeling irritated and your lenses uncomfortable.
Good eye drops for dry contacts hydrate without disrupting your lenses, while offering fast relief and lasting comfort.
Understanding what to look for in a product and how to support lens comfort throughout the day can make a big difference in how your eyes feel.
Why Dry Contact Lenses Are a Common Issue
Dry eyes can affect anyone, but contact lens wearers are particularly prone to discomfort. This issue often arises because wearing contact lenses can reduce the production of natural tear film on the eye’s surface. Additionally, external factors like prolonged screen use, living in dry climates, or skipping proper hydration can exacerbate the problem.
Symptoms of dry eyes caused by contact lenses can include:
- Irritation
- Redness
- Blurred vision
- Recurring headaches.
The good news? A solution often lies in using the right eye drops, which are formulated specifically to address dryness.
Types of Eye Drops for Dry Contact Lenses
Choosing the right eye drops for contact lenses is the first step for helping achieve relief without causing further discomfort. Not all eye drops are created equal, however, so it’s important to pick ones designed for use with contacts. Here are some of the options available on the market today:
- Preservative-Free Eye Drops
Eye drops without preservatives are highly recommended for anyone with sensitive eyes. The preservatives used in some eye drops can cause irritation, particularly if you wear contacts for extended periods. Look for brands that proudly advertise their preservative-free formulas on the packaging.
- Rewetting Drops
Rewetting drops are specifically made for contact lenses. These drops help hydrate your lenses and reduce friction between the lens and your eye. They’re designed to fix lens dryness without compromising the integrity of your contact lenses.
- Multi-Purpose Lubricating Drops
Versatile and effective, lubricating drops can be used by both contact lens wearers and non-wearers alike. Not only do these drops relieve dryness, but they also restore a healthy tear film. However, double-check whether the brand you’re considering is safe to use with contacts, as some general lubricating drops are not always compatible.
- Allergy Relief Drops
If your dryness stems from seasonal allergies, allergy-specific rewetting drops might be your best option. These drops handle dryness and redness while targeting allergens that may worsen irritation inside or around your eyes.
- Overnight Hydration Drops
For those who wear lenses or have naturally dry eyes, overnight hydration drops can help restore moisture levels while you sleep. These drops are typically thicker and not meant for daytime use but are great for starting the morning with refreshed eyes.
How to Choose the Best Drops for Your Needs
When shopping for eye drops for dry contacts, keep these tips in mind to help you get an effective product for your condition.
Check Compatibility
Always verify that the drops are labeled as contact-lens safe. Using incompatible drops can coat your lenses with residues, leading to cloudiness or irritation.
Look for Specific Benefits
If you’re dealing with more than just dryness (like allergies or redness), opt for multi-action drops that target secondary concerns without sacrificing moisturization.
Consult a Professional
Your optometrist knows your specific needs better than anyone. If you’re unsure about which drops to pick, schedule an appointment with McCauley Celin Eyecare Associates. We’ll help you narrow down the best options for you.
Consider Your Lifestyle
Does your day involve long hours in front of a computer? Are you often exposed to dry air in offices or during travel? Lifestyle-specific factors should guide your choice of eye drops to maximize relief and protection.
Improving Your Contact Lens Comfort
Dealing with dryness is about more than just eye drops. Here are additional tips to help you keep your contact lenses comfortable throughout the day:
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to maintain tear film production.
- 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at an object 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain.
- Use a humidifier: Dry indoor air can worsen dryness. Adding moisture to your environment can benefit your eyes significantly.
- Follow a lens care routine: Clean and store your lenses properly to avoid buildup that can irritate your eyes.
Give Your Eyes the Support They Deserve
Dry contact lenses shouldn’t stand in the way of a comfortable and clear day. With the right pair of eye drops and personalized care, you can vastly improve your contact experience.
If you’re still unsure about which product to choose or have further questions about managing dry eyes, the team at McCauley Celin Eyecare Associates is here to help.
Schedule an appointment with one of our friendly optometrists today for expert recommendations tailored to your needs. Your comfort matters to us. Take the first step in achieving better eye health today.
