Updated: January 20, 2026
Dry contact lenses can cause blurred vision and physical discomfort. Dehydration often occurs due to environmental factors, long wear times, or insufficient tear production.
- Apply approved rewetting drops while wearing the lenses and blink several times to distribute moisture.
- Remove the lenses and soak them in a sterile multi-purpose solution for several hours if drops do not provide relief.
- Discard lenses that remain uncomfortable or dry after soaking as the material may be damaged or coated in deposits.
- Avoid using tap water or saliva to hydrate lenses because these substances introduce harmful bacteria to the eye.
- Switch to a lens material with higher oxygen permeability or a daily disposable schedule if dryness persists daily.
- Maintaining a consistent cleaning schedule and using the correct solution helps prevent lenses from losing moisture prematurely.
Disclaimer: This information is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
References:
Gomes JAP, et al. TFOS DEWS II iatrogenic dry eye report (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28736340/). 2017.
Walsh K, et al. Therapeutic and contact lens rewetting drops, How to choose the right drop for your patient (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31331001/). 2019.
Morgan PB, et al. International Trends in Daily Disposable Contact Lens Prescribing 2000 to 2023 (pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38951051/). 2024.
