Is It Safe to Shower With Contact Lenses In?
Wearing contact lenses offers unparalleled convenience and freedom, allowing millions of people to see clearly without the hassle of glasses. But when it comes to daily routines—like showering—many contact lens wearers find themselves wondering: can you shower with contacts safely? This common question touches on concerns about eye health, comfort, and the potential risks of exposing lenses to water.
Understanding whether it’s safe to keep your contacts in while showering is more than just a matter of convenience. It involves knowing how water interacts with your lenses and the delicate environment of your eyes. While some may view showering with contacts as a harmless shortcut, others worry about infections or damage that could arise from water exposure. This topic invites a closer look at the balance between practicality and eye safety.
As you explore this subject, you’ll uncover insights about the potential dangers, best practices, and expert recommendations that can help you make informed decisions about your eye care routine. Whether you’re a seasoned contact lens user or new to lenses, understanding the relationship between water and contacts is essential for maintaining healthy, comfortable vision every day.
Risks of Showering With Contact Lenses
Showering while wearing contact lenses poses several significant risks, primarily due to the exposure of lenses to water, which is not sterile and contains microorganisms. Water can adhere to the surface of the lenses, causing irritation and increasing the risk of eye infections.
One of the most concerning dangers is exposure to *Acanthamoeba*, a microorganism found in tap water that can cause a severe and potentially sight-threatening eye infection known as Acanthamoeba keratitis. This infection is difficult to treat and may lead to permanent vision loss.
Other risks include:
- Microbial contamination: Bacteria and fungi present in water can attach to contact lenses, increasing the chance of infections such as bacterial keratitis.
- Lens displacement: Water pressure can cause lenses to move or dislodge, leading to discomfort or loss of the lens.
- Reduced lens lifespan: Water exposure can alter the shape and integrity of lenses, especially soft lenses, leading to deterioration and decreased effectiveness.
- Eye irritation and dryness: Water can wash away the natural tear film, causing dryness and discomfort.
Guidelines for Contact Lens Wearers Regarding Water Exposure
To minimize risks associated with water exposure, contact lens wearers should adhere to the following guidelines:
- Avoid wearing contacts while showering or swimming: Remove lenses before any activity involving water immersion.
- Use proper lens care: Always clean and disinfect lenses with recommended solutions after any accidental water exposure.
- Practice good hygiene: Wash and dry hands thoroughly before handling lenses.
- Use daily disposables if water exposure is unavoidable: These lenses reduce the risk of long-term contamination.
- Consult eye care professionals: Seek advice on safe lens practices tailored to individual needs.
Comparing Risks: Showering vs. Swimming With Contacts
Both showering and swimming with contacts present risks, but the level of exposure and type of water can influence the severity.
| Activity | Type of Water | Risk Level | Common Contaminants | Recommended Precautions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Showering | Warm tap water | Moderate | Acanthamoeba, bacteria, fungi | Remove lenses before showering; avoid water contact with eyes |
| Swimming in pools | Chlorinated water | High | Bacteria, amoebae, chlorine irritation | Use goggles; remove lenses before swimming |
| Swimming in lakes/rivers | Freshwater with natural organisms | Very high | Acanthamoeba, bacteria, parasites | Avoid wearing lenses; use prescription goggles if necessary |
| Swimming in oceans | Saltwater | High | Bacteria, salt irritation | Remove lenses before swimming; use goggles |
Best Practices for Contact Lens Hygiene After Water Exposure
If contact lenses have been exposed to water, immediate and thorough cleaning is essential to reduce infection risk. Recommended steps include:
- Remove lenses immediately: Do not continue wearing lenses if water exposure occurs.
- Use fresh disinfecting solution: Clean lenses with multi-purpose or hydrogen peroxide-based solutions according to manufacturer instructions.
- Avoid rinsing lenses with tap water: Only use sterile cleaning solutions.
- Discard disposable lenses: For daily disposables, throw away lenses after water exposure rather than attempting to disinfect.
- Monitor for symptoms: Watch for redness, pain, blurred vision, or excessive tearing and consult an eye care professional if symptoms develop.
By following these precautions, contact lens users can help protect their eye health and maintain optimal vision.
Risks of Showering While Wearing Contact Lenses
Wearing contact lenses in the shower significantly increases the risk of eye infections and complications. Water, including tap water, is not sterile and can contain various microorganisms and contaminants that adhere to contact lenses, leading to potential eye health issues.
Key risks include:
- Microbial Keratitis: This serious eye infection can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or amoebae such as Acanthamoeba, which thrive in water sources. Contaminated lenses increase the likelihood of this painful and potentially sight-threatening condition.
- Corneal Abrasions: Water exposure can cause lenses to swell or stick to the cornea, increasing friction and the risk of small corneal scratches.
- Lens Displacement or Loss: Water can cause lenses to shift or fall out, leading to discomfort or loss of the lens.
- Reduced Lens Hygiene: Showering can introduce soap residues and other chemicals that may adhere to lenses and irritate the eyes.
Expert Recommendations for Contact Lens Wearers
Eye care professionals strongly advise against wearing contact lenses while showering. To maintain optimal eye health and minimize risks, consider the following guidelines:
| Recommendation | Details |
|---|---|
| Remove contacts before showering | Always take out your lenses to avoid exposure to waterborne pathogens and chemicals. |
| Use daily disposable lenses | If occasional water exposure is unavoidable, daily disposables reduce risk by allowing you to discard lenses immediately after use. |
| Use prescribed cleaning solutions | Never rinse or store lenses in water; use only recommended multipurpose or hydrogen peroxide-based solutions. |
| Practice strict hand hygiene | Wash and dry hands thoroughly before handling lenses to reduce contamination risk. |
| Consult your eye care professional | Discuss concerns or lifestyle factors that may increase water exposure to receive personalized advice. |
Safe Alternatives and Precautions
If removing contact lenses before showering is inconvenient, consider the following alternatives and precautions:
- Use Prescription Glasses: Wearing glasses during activities involving water exposure eliminates the risk associated with contacts.
- Waterproof Goggles: Special goggles can protect your eyes and contacts from water intrusion when showering or swimming.
- Keep Eyes Closed: Minimizing eye opening during showers reduces the chance of water reaching the lenses.
- Immediate Lens Cleaning: If accidental water exposure occurs, remove lenses promptly and clean them using appropriate solutions before reinsertion.
Understanding Water Contamination and Contact Lens Material
Contact lenses are designed to maintain moisture and oxygen permeability, but exposure to water alters their physical and chemical properties:
| Lens Type | Effect of Water Exposure | Potential Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Soft Contact Lenses | Absorb water, swell, and change shape. | Discomfort, increased risk of microbial adherence, reduced visual clarity. |
| Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses | Less water absorption but can trap water under the lens. | Potential irritation and increased infection risk if contaminated water is trapped. |
Waterborne pathogens such as Acanthamoeba can adhere to lenses during showering, creating a biofilm that resists cleaning and increases infection risk. Tap water and shower water are common sources of such organisms, emphasizing the importance of avoiding water contact with lenses.
Legal and Manufacturer Guidelines
Manufacturers of contact lenses and lens care products explicitly advise against water exposure:
- Most contact lens packaging and instruction leaflets include warnings to avoid wearing lenses while showering, swimming, or exposing them to any water source.
- Failure to adhere to these guidelines may void product warranties and can complicate liability in case of eye infections.
- Regulatory bodies such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommend strict adherence to lens care protocols to prevent eye health complications.
Eye care providers may also recommend discontinuing lens wear if the patient experiences repeated water exposure or infections related to improper lens hygiene.