Artificial tears, also known as rewetting drops or lubricating drops, are a common solution for contact lens wearers experiencing dryness or discomfort. The direct answer to whether they can be used with contacts is yes, but only with specific product types. Improperly chosen artificial tears can cause irritation, lead to lens damage, or even compromise eye health by depositing incompatible chemicals onto the lens material. Understanding the difference between standard artificial tears and contact lens-approved drops is necessary for safe use.
Understanding Preservatives and Contact Lens Compatibility
Standard, multi-dose artificial tear solutions contain preservatives to prevent bacterial and fungal growth. These preservatives, such as Benzalkonium Chloride (BAK), are designed to kill microorganisms. Unfortunately, the porous nature of soft contact lenses makes them susceptible to absorbing and concentrating these harsh chemicals.
When a preserved drop is applied while wearing soft lenses, the lens material acts like a sponge, soaking up the preservative from the solution. Over time, this absorbed chemical can be slowly released onto the eye surface, causing irritation, redness, and a condition known as toxic keratitis. This prolonged exposure can also accelerate the degradation of the lens material itself.
The incompatibility primarily stems from the lens concentrating the preservative to a toxic level on the ocular surface. Modern multipurpose solutions use newer, higher-molecular-weight preservatives like polyquaternium-1 (PQ-1) or polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB), which are less likely to be absorbed than older compounds like BAK. However, the safest approach when using drops frequently is still to use a preservative-free option.
How to Select the Right Artificial Tears
The most important factor in selecting drops is verifying that the product is explicitly labeled for use with contact lenses. These are often branded as “Contact Lens Rewetting Drops” and are formulated to be biocompatible with lens materials. Rewetting drops often contain ingredients that help lower the surface tension of the tear film, allowing moisture to spread evenly over the lens surface.
A highly recommended option for frequent use is a “Preservative-Free” formula, which typically comes in small, single-use vials. Since these drops lack antimicrobial agents, they eliminate the risk of preservative buildup on the lens and subsequent eye irritation. Preservative-free tears are particularly suggested for individuals who need to apply drops more than four times a day.
Contact lens wearers should actively avoid certain types of eye drops. Any product labeled for “Redness Relief” or containing vasoconstrictors like tetrahydrozoline should not be used with lenses, as the chemicals can bind to the lens and cause rebound redness or vision blurriness. Similarly, thicker gels or oil-based artificial tears designed for severe dry eye relief can coat the lens, resulting in persistently blurred vision.
Guidelines for Application and Frequency
For rewetting or lubricating drops specifically approved for contact lenses, they should be applied while the lenses are still in the eye. This technique is intended to rehydrate the lens, flush away debris, and restore the tear film over the lens surface for immediate comfort. Always wash hands thoroughly before handling the bottle or touching the eye area to prevent contamination.
Proper application involves tilting the head back, gently pulling down the lower eyelid, and administering one or two drops into the space between the lower lid and the eye. The use of these drops should be based on need, such as when the eyes feel dry or the lenses begin to feel uncomfortable. Consistent, excessive reliance on drops can mask an underlying issue that requires professional attention.
If a different type of eye drop, such as an allergy or medicated drop, is necessary, it is generally recommended to remove the contact lenses first. After applying the non-compatible drops, waiting a minimum of 10 to 15 minutes allows the active ingredients to absorb and dissipate before reinserting the contact lenses.
If dryness or irritation persists despite the appropriate use of approved drops, it is a sign to consult an eye care professional. The problem may stem from the lens fit, material, or a more serious ocular condition.