For many contact lens wearers, convenience and comfort are top priorities. However, one common question arises: Is it safe to shower with contacts? The short answer is no. Showering with contact lenses can lead to significant risks for your eye health. Let’s dive into why this practice should be avoided and what you can do to protect your eyes.
Why Showering with Contact Lenses is Risky?
Contact lenses are designed to improve vision by sitting directly on the surface of your eyes. However, their compatibility with water is a significant concern. Here are some reasons why showering with contact lenses can be problematic:
a) Eye Irritation
Water contains minerals, bacteria, and impurities that can adhere to your contact lenses. When this happens, your eyes may experience irritation and redness, making them feel uncomfortable.
b) Eye Pain or Soreness
Bacteria or microorganisms in water can attach to the lenses, potentially leading to soreness or pain in the eyes. Prolonged exposure increases the likelihood of these issues.
c) Dry or Watery Eyes
Water exposure can disrupt the natural moisture balance of your eyes. This can cause either dryness, where your eyes feel scratchy, or excessive watering as a response to irritation.
d) Blurred Vision
When water interacts with your contact lenses, it can cause them to swell or warp, leading to blurry vision and discomfort.
e) Sensitivity to Light
Irritated eyes may become more sensitive to light, a condition known as photophobia. This sensitivity can be both inconvenient and painful.
f) Damage to Your Cornea
Contact lenses can trap bacteria or dirt against the cornea, potentially causing abrasions or long-term damage. The cornea is particularly vulnerable because it lacks a direct blood supply, making it harder to heal.
g) Eye Infection
Perhaps the most serious risk of showering with contacts is the increased likelihood of infections, particularly microbial keratitis. This infection can severely damage your vision if left untreated.
What to Do If You Accidentally Shower with Contacts In?
Accidents happen. If you find yourself in the shower with contacts, follow these steps:
- Remove the Contacts Immediately: Take out the lenses as soon as possible to minimize exposure to water and bacteria.
- Clean and Disinfect the Lenses: Use a proper contact lens solution to clean and store your lenses. Never use tap water.
- Monitor Your Eyes: Watch for signs of discomfort, redness, or vision changes. If symptoms persist, consult an eye care professional.
- Use Artificial Tears: If your eyes feel dry or irritated, use preservative-free artificial tears to restore moisture.
Facts About Contact Lenses and Water
Understanding the relationship between water and contact lenses can help you make informed decisions:
- Contact Lenses Are Not Waterproof: They can absorb water, which may contain harmful microorganisms.
- Swimming with Contacts is Risky: Pools, hot tubs, and natural water bodies also pose similar risks as showering.
- Acanthamoeba Keratitis Risk: A rare but serious infection caused by waterborne organisms like Acanthamoeba is a major concern for contact lens users.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), contact lens wearers are 10 times more likely to develop infections like keratitis if they’re exposed to water while wearing lenses.
A small case-control study conducted in 2020 indicated that showering while wearing contact lenses posed the highest hygiene-related risk for microbial keratitis.
A 2017 study by a CDC-affiliated research group analyzed the risk behaviors of contact lens users across various age groups, highlighting that swimming with lenses was consistently common among all age categories.
Another survey-based study from 2017 examined risky practices among contact lens wearers. Among the 1,141 adults surveyed, a majority admitted to exposing their lenses to water in some form regularly.
What Types of Germs Cause Microbial Keratitis?
Microbial keratitis is an infection of the cornea caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses, or parasites. Common culprits include:
- Acanthamoeba: Found in tap water, swimming pools, and hot tubs. It can cause severe corneal damage and pain.
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa: A bacteria that thrives in moist environments and can lead to rapid infections.
- Fusarium: A type of fungus that can infiltrate the cornea and cause lasting damage.
- Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): While not water-related, this virus can exacerbate infections in compromised eyes.
Can You Wash Your Face with Water While Wearing Contact Lenses?
Washing your face with water while wearing contacts is not recommended. Even a small splash of water can:
- Introduce bacteria or impurities to your lenses.
- Cause lenses to dislodge or stick to the eye’s surface.
- Lead to discomfort or infections.
To wash your face safely, remove your lenses beforehand and replace them after completing your skincare routine.
Can You Wet Your Eyes at All with Contacts In?
Using water to wet your eyes while wearing contacts is unsafe. Instead, rely on:
- Contact Lens Rewetting Drops: Specifically designed to hydrate and refresh your lenses without risking contamination.
- Artificial Tears: Opt for preservative-free options to avoid irritation.
Bottom Line
Showering or exposing your contact lenses to water poses serious risks to your eye health. From irritation and infections to long-term damage, the potential consequences outweigh the convenience. Always follow these best practices:
- Remove your lenses before showering, swimming, or washing your face.
- Use proper cleaning solutions to disinfect your lenses.
- Avoid water-based practices when wearing contacts.
- Stay vigilant for signs of eye discomfort or infection and seek prompt medical advice if needed.
