Overview | Multipurpose solutions | Comparing lens solutions | How to shop for solutions | How to use multipurpose solutions | FAQs | Conclusion
Overview
OPTI-FREE® Puremoist® Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution, Biotrue® Multi-Purpose Solution, and biofresh™ Multi-Purpose Contact Lens Solution are some of the most popular multipurpose contact lens solutions on the market today. They share many similarities, so it may be difficult to determine which brand is best for you may be difficult. Luckily, Lens.com is here to help.
In this guide, we will compare OPTI-FREE Puremoist, Biotrue, and biofresh and discuss their features, including their price, benefits, and more. After reading this guide and consulting with your eye care professional (ECP), you’ll be better equipped to decide which multipurpose contact lens solution is right for you.
What is a multipurpose contact lens solution?
A multipurpose contact lens solution is an all-in-one solution used to clean, rinse, disinfect, and store contact lenses. It is most commonly used to store soft contact lenses.
Keep in mind that cleaning and disinfection are different. Cleaning refers to the removal of protein, debris and other deposits from the surface of the lens, while disinfection refers to the killing of microorganisms present on the lens. Some lens solutions are meant for cleaning only, while others are used to disinfect.
OPTI-FREE Puremoist vs. Biotrue vs. biofresh
There are many brands of multipurpose contact lens solutions on the market today, but there is no such thing as the “best” solution. Brands vary in price, ingredients, benefits, and disadvantages, so it is misleading to claim that a particular brand is the best. Be wary of retailers making such claims as they may be earning money through affiliate links and presenting a biased opinion.
You can rest assured that we do not use such links on Eyestyle. Instead, we look at many factors (e.g., price, ingredients, and benefits) to compare contact lens solutions. Even so, there’s no right or wrong way to compare solutions. Only an ECP can advise you on which solution will work best with your contacts. The best thing we can do is expand your awareness about contact lens solution brands and their features so that you know what to discuss with your ECP.
On that note, here’s how OPTI-FREE Puremoist, Biotrue, and biofresh compare against each other:
| Brand | OPTI-FREE Puremoist | Biotrue | biofresh |
| Type | Multipurpose solution | Multipurpose solution | Multipurpose solution |
| Use | Cleans, rinses, and disinfects contact lenses | Cleans, rinses, and disinfects contact lenses | Cleans, rinses, and disinfects contact lenses |
| Price | $4.59 to $11.49 per 10 oz. bottle (from different retailers) | $8.89 to $10.99 per 10 oz. bottle (from different retailers) | $8.99 per 12 oz. bottle (from Lens.com) |
| Key features | – Uses two disinfectants to kill more bacteria – Surrounds contacts in a cushion of moisture for comfort – Prevents protein and deposit buildup | – Provides up to 20 hours of hydration – pH balanced to match healthy tears – Prevents protein and deposit buildup | – Removes deposits – Destroys harmful microorganisms – Eliminates the need for saline rinses – Easy to use |
| Active ingredients | Sodium citrate and boric acid | Boric acid, hyaluronan, sulfobetaine, and poloxamine | Boric acid, disodium edetate, and polyhexanide |
Alcon’s OPTI-FREE Puremoist is a multipurpose solution designed for soft contact lenses. It uses two exclusive disinfectants (Polyquad® and Aldox®) to rid contacts of microorganisms that could cause infection. OPTI-FREE Puremoist also features Alcon’s HydraGlyde® Moisture Matrix, which envelops contact lenses in a cushion of moisture. This leaves the contacts feeling comfortable while also creating a protective barrier that keeps out debris. The only downside of OPTI-FREE Puremoist is it may not be suitable for contact lens wearers with sensitive eyes.
On the other hand, Bausch + Lomb’s Biotrue solution is a good choice for those with sensitive eyes. This multipurpose solution is suitable for soft contacts, and it is designed to match the pH level of healthy tears. This keeps the lenses feeling comfortable all day. Biotrue Contact Lens Solution also keeps the lenses moist using hyaluronan, a lubricant found naturally in the eye. You can count on Biotrue Contact Lens Solution to keep your contacts moist and comfortable for up to 20 hours.
biofresh™ Multi-Purpose Contact Lens Solution is also an excellent option for contact lens wearers with sensitive eyes. A multipurpose solution designed for soft contact lenses, biofresh eliminates the need for saline rinses and enzymatic cleaners. It loosens and removes irritating deposits from the surface of the lens, and it destroys potentially harmful microorganisms. Additionally, this affordable multipurpose contact lens solution can clean both silicone hydrogel and standard hydrogel contact lenses.
Note that the prices included in the table above are accurate as of 7/1/2022 but are subject to change without notice.
How to Shop for Contact Lens Solutions
Although multipurpose solutions work well for most contact lens wearers, some people may have an unpleasant experience with specific formulas. You should consult your ECP before shopping for a contact lens solution. Do not hesitate to discuss any concerns you may have with your ECP, like price or specific ingredients.
When shopping for a contact lens solution, consider how often you need to buy it and where you buy it from. You may be able to save money if you purchase solutions in bulk. Some retailers also offer subscriptions so you can get your solution monthly or bi-monthly.
Finally, be sure to read the ingredients label of any solution that you are thinking of buying. Consider a different product if you are allergic to the ingredients listed.
How to Use Multipurpose Contact Lens Solution
Follow these steps for cleaning contacts with a multipurpose solution:
- Empty your contact lens case and fill it with fresh solution.
- Starting with your right lens, wet both sides of the lens with solution.
- Using your index finger, gently rub both sides of the lens for 10 seconds.
- Rinse both sides of the lens for 10 seconds with a steady stream of solution.
- Repeat for the other lens.
- Place both lenses in the case filled with solution, then tighten the lids. Let them soak for a few hours to ensure they are adequately lubricated and ready to wear.
To clean your contact lens case with a multipurpose solution, follow these steps:
- Empty your contact lens case.
- Scrub the inside and the lid of the case with your finger or a lint-free cloth. Make sure to spend at least five seconds rubbing each section of the case.
- Rinse the case and lid with fresh multipurpose solution.
- Set your case face down on a clean tissue or cloth and allow it to air dry completely.
Frequently Asked Questions on Contact Lens Solution
- Does contact lens solution expire?
Yes. Much like contact lenses, contact lens solutions have an expiration date. That date represents the amount of time the solution can maintain its pH level before losing its potency, or its cleaning power. If your contact lens solution is past its expiration date, it can no longer clean your contacts effectively. The best thing to do in this scenario is to throw out your old solution — even if it is not empty — and buy a new one.
- When should I change the solution in my contact lens case?
If your contacts are sitting in a case, change your solution at least once every 30 days. Remember that this is the absolute minimum, and you may need to change your solution more frequently depending on your contacts’ replacement schedule. Talk to your ECP for guidance.
- Can I use contact lens solution as eye drops?
No, you should never use contact lens solution as eye drops because certain ingredients in the solution may harm your eye. Contact lens solutions refresh contacts, not eyes. If you want to lubricate your eyes for comfort before or after inserting contacts, use rewetting drops instead.
Conclusion
OPTI-FREE Puremoist Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution, Biotrue Multi-Purpose Solution, and biofresh Multi-Purpose Contact Lens Solution are all excellent choices for anyone looking for a convenient and moisturizing multipurpose solution.
But if you have particularly sensitive eyes, you may want to consider either Biotrue or biofresh. Both solutions balance comfort and cleanliness while keeping contacts hydrated. If you prefer an “extra strength” multipurpose solution, opt for OPTI-FREE Puremoist.
This information is intended as a resource, not medical advice. Be sure to consult with your ECP to determine your specific needs.
