It is a common question for contact lens wearers whether they can wash their face with their lenses still in. While convenient, the practice introduces a direct risk of exposing the lenses and your eyes to tap water, which is not sterile. The safest approach is always to remove the lenses first. Understanding the specific dangers involved clarifies why this precaution is necessary.
Understanding the Dangers of Water Exposure
Tap water, despite being safe for drinking, is not sterile and contains microorganisms that pose a threat to contact lenses and eye health. A primary concern is the presence of the microscopic amoeba Acanthamoeba, commonly found in water sources. If this organism contaminates a contact lens, it can cause a severe, painful eye infection known as Acanthamoeba keratitis. This infection can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.
Soft contact lenses are largely composed of water, acting like sponges that readily absorb contaminants. When exposed to tap water, the lenses absorb impurities. The difference in osmolarity between tap water and the eye’s natural tear film can also cause soft lenses to swell or change shape. This distortion leads to a poor fit, which can cause discomfort, irritation, or microscopic abrasions on the cornea, creating an entry point for pathogens.
Safe Practices for Facial Hygiene
The best practice is to remove your contact lenses before washing your face. This eliminates the risk of water contamination and lens damage from soap or cleansers. If you must wash your face while wearing your lenses, exercise caution to prevent water from splashing into your eyes.
A gentle, splash-free method involves using a clean washcloth dampened with water to wipe your face, carefully avoiding the immediate eye area. Tilting your head back slightly while rinsing helps direct water away from your eyes. Keep your eyes tightly closed until your face is completely dry. Additionally, choose non-oil-based and gentle cleansers, as certain ingredients can leave residues that adhere to the lens material, causing irritation or obscuring vision.
What to Do If Your Lenses Get Wet
If tap water or a cleanser accidentally splashes into your eyes while wearing contacts, immediate action is necessary to minimize infection risk. Remove the lenses as soon as possible after the exposure. After removal, flush your eyes with a sterile saline solution or contact lens solution to rinse away contaminants.
If you wear daily disposable lenses, the exposed pair should be immediately discarded and replaced with a fresh pair. For reusable lenses, a thorough cleaning and disinfection process is required, typically involving soaking them in a fresh multi-purpose solution overnight. Contact an eye care professional immediately if you experience persistent symptoms such as redness, pain, blurred vision, or light sensitivity following the water exposure.