Contact Lens Safety: What You Need to Know About Water Exposure

Water and contact lenses are a risky combination. Whether you're swimming in a pool, taking a shower, or even washing your face, exposing your lenses to water can lead to serious eye infections. This article explains the dangers, why water is so harmful to contact lenses, and how you can enjoy water activities safely while still wearing your favorite colored contacts.

Many people don't realize that tap water, pool water, and even the water in your shower can contain microorganisms like Acanthamoeba, which can cause a painful and potentially blinding infection called Acanthamoeba keratitis. Understanding the risks and following proper safety guidelines is essential for anyone who wears contact lenses, especially if you love wearing them daily.

Why Water and Contact Lenses Don't Mix

Contact lenses are designed to sit on the tear film of your eye, allowing oxygen to pass through. When exposed to water, lenses can absorb water and change shape, affecting their fit and the amount of oxygen reaching your cornea. This can lead to discomfort, blurred vision, and an increased risk of eye infections.

Water contains a variety of microorganisms, including bacteria, fungi, and amoebas. The most notorious is Acanthamoeba, which thrives in water and can attach to contact lenses, leading to a severe infection that is difficult to treat. Even in chlorinated pools, these organisms can survive, so no water source is completely safe.

• Avoid any water contact with your lenses, including tap water, swimming pools, hot tubs, and showers.
• If you must be in water, consider daily disposable lenses that you can throw away immediately after.
• Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses, and use fresh solution to store them.

Swimming with Contact Lenses: Risks and Alternatives

Swimming with contact lenses is a common temptation, but it's one of the riskiest activities for lens wearers. The water in pools, oceans, and lakes can introduce harmful pathogens to your eyes. Even if you wear goggles, water can still leak in, and the lenses can become dislodged or contaminated.

Instead of wearing your regular lenses, consider using daily disposable lenses for swimming, and remove them immediately after. Alternatively, you can invest in prescription swimming goggles that provide clear vision without the need for contact lenses. If you do wear lenses while swimming, always clean and disinfect them thoroughly afterward, or better yet, discard them if they are daily disposables.

• Use daily disposable lenses for swimming and discard them right after.
• Wear tight-fitting goggles to minimize water exposure.
• Never use saliva or tap water to wet your lenses – always use contact lens solution.

Showering and Bathing with Contact Lenses

Many people shower with their contact lenses in, but this is another risky habit. The water from your shower can carry Acanthamoeba and other microbes directly to your eyes. Even if you close your eyes, water can splash in, and the steam can cause your lenses to become dry and uncomfortable.

If you prefer to keep your lenses on while showering, consider removing them first and storing them in a case with fresh solution. Alternatively, you can wear waterproof goggles to protect your eyes. After showering, wash your hands and put your lenses back in, ensuring they are clean and moisturized.

• Remove your lenses before showering or bathing to avoid water exposure.
• If you must keep them in, use a waterproof eye shield or goggles.
• After any water exposure, clean your lenses with solution and let them air-dry before wearing again.

Safe Alternatives for Water Activities

If you love wearing colored contact lenses but also enjoy swimming or water sports, you don't have to give up either. Choose daily disposable lenses for water activities, so you can simply discard them after use. This eliminates the risk of contamination and ensures your eyes stay healthy.

Our store offers a variety of daily and monthly lenses, including the VENICOL contact lenses and the Phantasee BIG EYE Contact Lenses, which are perfect for special occasions. For water activities, consider using daily disposables to keep your eyes safe and your look fabulous.

• Opt for daily disposable lenses when swimming or in water.
• Consider prescription goggles for a hassle-free experience.
• Always have a backup pair of glasses or lenses in case of emergencies.

Water exposure is a serious risk for contact lens wearers, but with the right precautions, you can still enjoy your favorite activities safely. Remember to avoid water contact, use daily disposables when necessary, and always prioritize your eye health. For high-quality lenses that offer comfort and style, explore our range of VENICOL contact lenses and other top brands to find your perfect match.