Ever blink and feel like sandpaper is scratching your eyes? If you wear contacts, you know that uncomfortable feeling all too well. Contacts can sometimes make your eyes feel dry, itchy, or just plain irritated. Finding the right eye drops can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, especially with so many choices lining the shelves.
Choosing the wrong eye drops can actually make things worse! Some drops aren’t made for contacts and can damage them or irritate your eyes even more. We know you want relief, but you also want to keep your eyes healthy and your contacts in good shape. It’s a tricky balance, and getting it wrong can lead to discomfort and frustration.
In this blog post, we will help you find the best eye drops for your contact lenses. We’ll explain what to look for on the label, which ingredients are helpful, and which ones to avoid. By the end of this guide, you’ll know exactly what to look for and how to choose the perfect eye drops to keep your eyes happy and your contacts comfortable all day long. Let’s dive in and discover the secrets to comfortable contact lens wear!
Our Top 5 Eye Drops For Contacts-Wearers Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Eye Drops For Contacts-Wearers Detailed Reviews
1. Blink Contacts Lubricating Eye Drops with Hyaluronate
Rating: 8.8/10
Blink Contacts Lubricating Eye Drops with Hyaluronate are designed to keep your eyes feeling fresh and comfortable all day long. These drops work with both soft and RGP contact lenses. They provide moisture and soothe dryness, making them great for daily use. This small bottle contains 0.34 fl oz of hydrating eye care.
What We Like:
- These drops provide instant relief for dry contact lenses.
- The hyaluronate formula boosts hydration, keeping contacts comfortable.
- They contain electrolytes similar to natural tears for long-lasting comfort.
- You can use these drops before inserting your lenses and during the day.
- Blink is a trusted brand with a range of eye care products.
What Could Be Improved:
- The small bottle size might not last very long with frequent use.
- Some users may prefer preservative-free options, which this isn’t.
If you struggle with dry eyes while wearing contacts, Blink Contacts Lubricating Eye Drops are worth trying. They offer a convenient way to keep your lenses feeling hydrated and comfortable throughout the day.
2. Refresh RELIEVA FOR CONTACTS Lubricant Eye Drops For Use with Contact Lenses
Rating: 9.2/10
Refresh RELIEVA FOR CONTACTS Lubricant Eye Drops can help your eyes feel better when wearing contact lenses. This eye drop is made for people who wear contacts and have dry, irritated, or uncomfortable eyes. The special formula works to relieve these problems. You don’t even have to take your contacts out to use them!
What We Like:
- This formula is specially made for contact lens wearers, so it works well.
- It relieves dryness, irritation, and discomfort caused by wearing contacts.
- Hydrocell technology hydrates your eyes and keeps cells healthy.
- You can use the drops without removing your contact lenses. This is very convenient!
- It can also lubricate and rewet both soft and RGP contact lenses.
- You can use it to cushion lenses before you put them in.
What Could Be Improved:
- The bottle is small. Some users might prefer a larger size.
- The price might be a little high for some compared to other brands.
If you wear contacts and have dry eyes, Refresh RELIEVA could be a great solution. It’s easy to use and can make your eyes feel much better.
3. Systane Contacts Soothing Drops-0.405 oz
Rating: 9.1/10
Systane Contacts Soothing Drops give your dry eyes relief! If you wear contacts, you know how uncomfortable dry eyes can be. These drops from Alcon are made to moisturize and soothe eyes that feel dry because of wearing soft or RGP (rigid gas permeable) lenses. The small bottle is easy to carry with you for relief whenever you need it.
What We Like:
- These drops quickly soothe dry, irritated eyes.
- They are specifically designed for contact lens wearers.
- The small bottle makes it easy to take them on the go.
- They work with both soft and RGP contact lenses.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some users might find the bottle size too small.
- The drops may not provide long-lasting relief for everyone.
- The price may be a little high compared to other eye drops.
Systane Contacts Soothing Drops are a convenient way to get relief from dry eyes while wearing contacts. If you suffer from dry eyes due to contact lens wear, this product is worth considering.
4. Clear Eyes Contact Lens Relief Eye Drops
Rating: 8.6/10
Clear Eyes Contact Lens Multi-Action Relief Eye Drops give you relief if you have dry, irritated eyes. These eye drops are made for people who wear contact lenses. They help to rewet your lenses and wash away any small particles. You can use them to soothe and moisturize your eyes. Clear Eyes is the #1-selling eye drops brand, so you know they are popular! This bottle contains 0.5 fl oz of eye drops. Plus, it’s FSA- and HSA-eligible in the U.S.
What We Like:
- Provides relief for dry and irritated eyes caused by contact lens wear.
- Lubricates and moisturizes, making contact lenses more comfortable.
- Rewets lenses and helps remove particles, keeping your vision clear.
- Offers up to 12 hours of soothing comfort, so you don’t have to apply them constantly.
- Comes from a trusted, #1-selling eye drop brand.
- FSA- and HSA-eligible, which can save you money.
What Could Be Improved:
- The 0.5 fl oz bottle might not last very long with frequent use.
- Some people might prefer a preservative-free formula, which this may not be.
If you wear contacts and struggle with dry eyes, these eye drops are definitely worth a try. They can bring much-needed comfort and clarity to your day.
5. Biotrue Hydration Boost for Contacts
Rating: 8.7/10
Biotrue Hydration Boost for Contacts offers a refreshing solution for dry eyes, especially for contact lens wearers. These rehydrating eye drops come in a convenient 0.33 fl oz bottle and are designed to lubricate, moisturize, and refresh your lenses. They’re preservative-free, making them a gentle option for sensitive eyes. The formula aims to provide lasting comfort throughout the day.
What We Like:
- Uses naturally inspired ingredients like Hyaluronan (HA), an antioxidant, and electrolytes.
- Provides lasting moisture for up to 8 hours, helping to prevent deposit buildup on lenses.
- The first preservative-free multi-dose contact lens rewetting drops.
- pH balanced for enhanced comfort.
- Offers a convenient and easy way to rehydrate your contact lenses on the go.
What Could Be Improved:
- The small bottle size (0.33 fl oz) might not last very long for frequent users.
- While preservative-free is a plus, some users may find multi-dose bottles less convenient than single-use vials.
If you’re seeking a preservative-free option for rewetting your contact lenses and relieving dry eyes, Biotrue Hydration Boost is worth considering. It’s a handy product to keep nearby for lasting comfort and clear vision throughout your day.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Eye Drops for Contact Lens Wearers
Wearing contact lenses can sometimes make your eyes feel dry and uncomfortable. Eye drops made for contact lens wearers can help! This guide will help you pick the best eye drops to keep your eyes happy and healthy.
Why Use Eye Drops for Contact Lens Wearers?
Contact lenses can reduce the amount of oxygen that reaches your eyes. They can also trap debris and make your eyes dry. Special eye drops can rehydrate your lenses, wash away particles, and make wearing contacts more comfortable. Using the right eye drops helps you see clearly and avoid irritation.
Key Features to Look For
When choosing eye drops, keep these features in mind:
- Compatibility with Contact Lenses: The most important thing! The label should clearly say “for contact lens wearers.” Some eye drops can damage your lenses.
- Preservative-Free Options: Preservatives keep eye drops fresh, but some people are sensitive to them. Preservative-free drops usually come in single-use vials. They are gentler on your eyes, especially if you use eye drops often.
- Lubricating Ingredients: Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, or carboxymethylcellulose. These ingredients help keep your eyes moisturized.
- Multi-Dose vs. Single-Use Vials: Multi-dose bottles are more economical, but they contain preservatives. Single-use vials are preservative-free but cost more. Consider how often you’ll use the drops.
- Relief Type: Some eye drops focus on moisturizing, while others also address redness or allergies. Choose drops that target your specific needs.
Important Materials and Ingredients
The ingredients in eye drops determine how well they work. Here are some common and important ones:
- Hyaluronic Acid: A powerful moisturizer that helps retain water.
- Glycerin: Another moisturizer that helps lubricate the eye.
- Carboxymethylcellulose (CMC): A lubricant that provides a protective layer on the eye’s surface.
- Electrolytes (like Potassium Chloride): These help maintain the natural balance of your tears.
- Preservatives (like Benzalkonium Chloride – BAK): Found in multi-dose bottles to prevent bacterial growth. Avoid if you have sensitive eyes.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several factors affect the quality of eye drops:
Improving Factors:
- Preservative-Free Formula: Gentler and better for frequent use.
- High-Quality Lubricating Ingredients: Provide long-lasting relief.
- Sterile Packaging: Ensures the eye drops are free from contamination.
- Positive User Reviews: Indicate that other people have had a good experience with the product.
Reducing Factors:
- Harsh Preservatives: Can cause irritation, especially with frequent use.
- Artificial Colors or Fragrances: Can irritate sensitive eyes.
- Damaged Packaging: Could indicate contamination. Do not use if the seal is broken.
- Expired Date: Expired eye drops can be less effective or even harmful.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you’ll use the eye drops.
- Everyday Use: If you wear contacts daily, choose preservative-free drops for frequent use.
- Travel: Single-use vials are convenient for travel.
- Dry Eye Syndrome: Look for eye drops specifically designed for dry eye. These usually contain more lubricating ingredients.
- Allergies: If you have allergies, choose eye drops that also help relieve itching and redness.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What are the main Key Features?
A: The main features to look for are compatibility with contact lenses, preservative-free options, lubricating ingredients, multi-dose or single-use vials, and relief type.
Q: Can I use regular eye drops with my contacts?
A: No, you should only use eye drops specifically made for contact lens wearers. Regular eye drops can damage your lenses.
Q: How often can I use eye drops?
A: You can usually use eye drops as often as needed, but it’s best to follow the directions on the bottle. If you need to use them very frequently, consider preservative-free options.
Q: What if my eyes are still dry after using eye drops?
A: If your eyes are still dry, you may need to try a different brand of eye drops or talk to your eye doctor. They can recommend a more effective solution.
Q: Are preservative-free eye drops better?
A: Preservative-free eye drops are gentler on your eyes, especially if you use them often. They are a good choice for people with sensitive eyes.
Q: How do I store eye drops?
A: Store eye drops at room temperature, away from direct sunlight. Keep the bottle tightly closed when not in use.
Q: What are the best ingredients to look for in eye drops?
A: Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). These ingredients help keep your eyes moisturized.
Q: Can eye drops help with red eyes?
A: Yes, some eye drops are specifically designed to reduce redness. Look for eye drops that contain ingredients like tetrahydrozoline hydrochloride.
Q: How do I know if my eye drops are expired?
A: Check the expiration date on the bottle. Do not use eye drops if they are expired.
Q: Can I use eye drops if I’m not wearing contacts?
A: Yes, you can use eye drops even if you are not wearing contacts. They can still help relieve dry eyes.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.