Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the white part of the eye and the inner surface of the eyelids. Contact lens wearers must immediately remove lenses upon the onset of pink eye to prevent severe complications. Wearing contacts during an active infection significantly increases the risk of trapping infectious agents against the eye’s surface. This can lead to prolonged infection or more serious conditions. The primary goal after an infection is preventing a recurrence and safeguarding the corneal tissue.
The Necessary Waiting Period
The time required before safely resuming contact lens use depends on the root cause of the conjunctivitis.
For bacterial pink eye, which involves thick discharge and is treated with antibiotic eye drops, the waiting period is relatively short. Wait until at least 24 hours after completing the full course of prescribed antibiotics and all symptoms, including discharge, have disappeared.
Viral conjunctivitis is the most common cause of pink eye and requires the longest wait because it is highly contagious and does not respond to antibiotics. The eye must be completely free of all symptoms, including redness, excessive tearing, itching, and gritty sensation. This period often extends three to seven days after the last symptom has cleared, and sometimes longer, up to two weeks, to ensure the virus is no longer active or transmissible.
Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious, and contacts can be reintroduced once the eyes return to their normal, non-irritated state. This usually occurs shortly after the allergenic trigger is removed or allergy symptoms are controlled with medication. Regardless of the cause, the eye must appear white, feel comfortable, and show no signs of inflammation before a new lens is placed.
Mandatory Hygiene Steps Before Resuming Contacts
Preventing reinfection from contaminated equipment is equally important as physical healing. Any soft contact lenses worn during the active phase must be immediately discarded. Lens material can harbor bacteria or viral particles, making disinfection unreliable and risking an immediate recurrence upon reinsertion.
Several items must be discarded to eliminate potential pathogen reservoirs before resuming contact lens wear. The contact lens case must be replaced, as the plastic surface can retain pathogens even after cleaning. Additionally, throw away all open bottles of contact lens solution used when the infection started, as the solution or bottle tip may have become contaminated. Starting fresh with a new case and sealed solution minimizes the chance of transferring infectious material back into a healing eye.
All eye makeup, such as mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow, used during the infection should also be discarded. These products are easily contaminated and can be a direct source of bacteria, leading to a second infection.
When to Consult a Professional
While most cases of pink eye resolve without permanent damage, certain symptoms warrant immediate attention from an eye care professional. Seek a medical evaluation if you experience severe, persistent eye pain or an intense sensitivity to light (photophobia). These symptoms can indicate a more serious condition affecting the cornea, such as keratitis or a corneal ulcer.
Other warning signs include blurred vision that persists after the discharge and redness have cleared, or if symptoms worsen after 48 hours of treatment. Wearing contacts before the eye is fully healed significantly increases the risk of a corneal abrasion or ulcer, which can lead to permanent vision loss if untreated. Consult a professional if you are unsure about the type of pink eye you had or need guidance on the specific timing to safely reintroduce lenses.