Protein buildup is a common issue for contact lens wearers, diminishing comfort and visual clarity. This accumulation comes from natural components within the tear film, the fluid that keeps the eye moist. When these tear proteins adhere to the lens surface, they create a hazy film or a gritty sensation, making the lens feel less comfortable. Addressing this buildup is necessary for maintaining healthy eyes and clear vision throughout the lens’s lifespan.
Understanding the Source of Protein Buildup
The tear film contains over 400 different proteins, along with lipids and mucins, which are all designed to protect the eye. The most prominent protein involved in lens deposits is lysozyme, which is an antimicrobial agent naturally present in tears. When a contact lens is inserted, these proteins begin to adhere to the lens surface almost immediately.
The specific material of the lens plays a large role in how much protein deposits. Older, high-water content hydrogel lenses with an ionic charge attract and bind large amounts of protein, particularly the positively charged lysozyme. Modern silicone hydrogel lenses generally attract less total protein, but the protein that does deposit often undergoes denaturation. This structural change hardens the deposits, making them difficult to remove and potentially triggering an immune response in the eye. The buildup manifests as foggy vision, a persistent gritty feeling, and general irritation.
Immediate Steps for Protein Removal
The most effective initial step against protein buildup is the mechanical action of rubbing and rinsing the lenses every time they are removed. This manual cleaning is necessary even when using “no-rub” solutions, as studies show that rubbing significantly dislodges debris and loosely bound protein deposits. To perform this action, place a few drops of fresh multipurpose solution in the palm. Gently rub the lens with a clean fingertip for about 20 seconds before rinsing thoroughly with a steady stream of the same solution.
For more stubborn buildup, chemical methods are required to break down the protein structures. Enzyme cleaners, often sold as tablets, are formulated with proteolytic enzymes that act as biological catalysts. These enzymes destroy the structural bonds within the protein deposits, breaking them down into smaller, water-soluble fragments that are rinsed away. Enzyme systems are typically used weekly to supplement daily cleaning, especially for lenses worn on bi-weekly or monthly schedules.
Another highly effective option for deep protein removal is a hydrogen peroxide cleaning system. These systems break up proteins and deposits without using preservatives, benefiting individuals with sensitive eyes. The solution cleans, disinfects, and removes a significant portion of deposited protein. It is crucial to follow instructions precisely, as the solution must be neutralized—usually by soaking the lenses for a minimum of six hours in a specialized case with a neutralizing disc—before they can be safely inserted.
Long-Term Strategies for Prevention
Maintaining consistent hygiene habits is the primary long-term strategy for minimizing protein accumulation. This routine begins with meticulous handwashing using a non-cosmetic, oil-free soap, followed by drying with a lint-free towel before handling the lenses. Introducing contaminants from unwashed hands can accelerate deposit formation and increase the risk of infection.
It is necessary to use fresh contact lens solution for every cleaning and storage cycle. Never “top off” the solution already in the case, as this practice reintroduces microbes and debris, diluting the disinfectant’s potency.
After removing the lenses, the lens case requires attention. It should be emptied of the old solution, rinsed with fresh solution, and allowed to air-dry upside down with the caps off. The case should be replaced every three months at minimum to prevent bacterial biofilms that promote protein adherence and increase infection risk.
For wearers who consistently experience heavy buildup, consulting an eye care professional about switching to a hydrogen peroxide system or incorporating a weekly enzyme treatment can offer superior deposit-fighting power. Selecting a lens care product designed for soft lenses and your individual tear chemistry also contributes to long-term comfort and clarity.
When to Replace Lenses or Seek Professional Advice
Despite diligent cleaning, there is a limit to how much protein can be removed, and lenses must be discarded according to their prescribed replacement schedule. If the lens is worn beyond its recommended life, the protein deposits become too firmly bound, and the lens’s surface degrades, necessitating replacement. If protein deposits are visible as a cloudy film or white specks that do not clear with thorough cleaning, the lens should be immediately thrown away.
The presence of persistent symptoms should prompt an immediate consultation with an eye care professional. These include chronic redness, severe pain, or a persistent inflammatory response like giant papillary conjunctivitis (GPC), which is often a reaction to denatured protein deposits. Ignoring signs of inflammation or infection while attempting to wear a heavily deposited lens can lead to serious complications. A professional can assess the deposits using specialized equipment and may recommend a change in lens material, a different cleaning regimen, or a switch to daily disposable lenses to eliminate the problem.