Contact lenses turning an unexpected pink color can be a surprising and often unsettling experience for wearers. This discoloration signals an interaction between the lens material and external factors. Understanding the reasons for this change is important for maintaining eye health and proper lens function.
Understanding the Causes of Pink Contacts
Several factors can contribute to contact lenses acquiring a pink hue. One common cause relates to systemic medications. Certain drugs, such as phenolphthalein found in some laxatives, can be excreted through tears and subsequently stain soft contact lenses pink. Similarly, some antibiotics or even certain eye drops containing specific active ingredients, can lead to lens discoloration.
Eye conditions can also play a role in this phenomenon. Conjunctivitis, commonly known as “pink eye,” causes the eye itself to become red or pink due to inflammation of the conjunctiva. While the contact lens does not directly cause the infection, the redness from the inflamed eye can transfer to or be reflected by the lens. External contaminants are another frequent culprit; makeup, particularly products with red or pink pigments like eyeshadow or blush, can shed particles that adhere to the lens surface. Hair dyes can also cause staining if they come into contact with the lenses.
Beyond external substances, the lens material itself can undergo changes. Protein deposits, naturally accumulating from the tear film, can denature and become more opaque, sometimes contributing to discoloration or making the lens more susceptible to staining. Over time, the molecular structure of the lens material can change, leading to discoloration. Furthermore, using inappropriate cleaning solutions, such as certain types of hydrogen peroxide not specifically formulated for contact lenses, can chemically react with the lens and result in a pink tint.
When to Consult an Eye Care Professional
Observing pink discoloration in your contact lenses warrants immediate attention and often requires professional evaluation. If your contact lenses turn pink, remove them at once and refrain from reinserting them. Do not attempt to clean or reuse the discolored lenses, as this could exacerbate a potential underlying issue or spread infection.
It is important to consult an eye care professional without delay, especially if the discoloration is accompanied by other symptoms. These symptoms might include eye pain, blurred vision, unusual discharge, significant redness of the eye itself, or increased sensitivity to light. These signs could indicate an infection, an allergic reaction, or another eye health concern that requires prompt medical intervention.
Dispose of the affected lenses and any contact lens solution that may have been contaminated. If the pink discoloration occurred while wearing makeup, it is also wise to discard any eye makeup products that might have come into contact with your eyes or the contaminated lenses to prevent reinfection. Your eye care provider can accurately diagnose the reason for the discoloration and recommend the appropriate course of action to protect your vision and eye health.
Preventing Contact Lens Discoloration
Preventing contact lens discoloration involves rigorous hygiene practices and adhering to recommended lens care guidelines. Always begin by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water and drying them with a lint-free towel before handling your contact lenses. This simple step significantly reduces the transfer of dirt, oils, and microorganisms to your lenses.
Proper cleaning and storage are essential. Use only fresh, recommended contact lens solution each time you clean and store your lenses; never reuse old solution or “top off” the solution in your case. Employ the “rub and rinse” method, gently rubbing the lenses with your fingertips before rinsing, even if using a “no-rub” solution, as this enhances deposit removal. Your contact lens case should be rinsed with fresh solution after each use, allowed to air dry, and replaced every three months to prevent bacterial buildup.
Adhering to the prescribed replacement schedule for your lenses is important; wearing lenses beyond their recommended lifespan increases the accumulation of deposits and the risk of discoloration. Avoid exposing contact lenses to water from showers, swimming pools, hot tubs, or tap water, as these sources contain microorganisms that can cause serious infections. When applying makeup, always insert your lenses first and remove them before taking off makeup to prevent product transfer. Opt for oil-free, non-powder, and cream-based eye makeup, and avoid applying products to the waterline to minimize contamination. Regular eye examinations are also important to ensure your lenses fit correctly, your prescription is current, and your eyes remain healthy.