Wearing contact lenses can be a liberating alternative to glasses, offering convenience, a wider visual field, and aesthetic freedom. However, for individuals with Dry Eyes, the experience may not be as straightforward.
If you’re dealing with dry eyes and wondering whether contact lenses are still an option, the answer is: it depends. Some cases are more severe than others and using contact lenses can lead to further complications. However, there are some safe options including hydrogel polymer lenses which significantly reduce the risk of dry eye discomfort.
What Is Dry Eye Syndrome?
Dry Eye Syndrome is a chronic condition that occurs when your eyes don’t produce enough tears or when the quality of tears is poor, causing them to evaporate too quickly. Tears are essential for lubricating, nourishing, and protecting the surface of the eye. When this system fails, symptoms can range from mild discomfort to debilitating pain and blurred vision. It’s recommended that you visit your eye-care professional if the symptoms worsen.
Here are the most common causes of Dry Eyes
- Aging: tear production tends to slow down with age, increasing the risk with each decade after 40.
- Screen time: excessive screen time is one of the most common causes of dry eyes.
- Dry or Dusty Environment: Living in a dusty or unclean environment can worsen your dry eyes.
- Smoking: Smoking or being around people who smoke can cause your eyes to irritate.
How to Identify Dry Eye Syndrome
- Dry eyes cause redness around your iris and slight irritation which makes it difficult to keep your eyes open.
- If you feel a burning or stinging sensation, that means the problem is more severe and it's time to visit an eye-care professional.
- Dry eyes may also cause pupils to dilate which makes them sensitive to light, along with blurred vision.
Why Dry Eyes Are Bad For Contact Lens Wearer
Contact lenses sit directly above the surface of your eye, above the cornea which is a thin fluid-like layer that keeps the eye’s surface smooth and protects from bacteria. Dry eyes can make this layer unstable and insufficient which can pose many challenges if you wish to wear contact lenses.
Because contact lenses sit above the corneal surface of your eye, they can reduce the flow of oxygen to your eyes. This usually isn’t a big problem if you have a healthy cornea and your eyes are producing enough tears, but that isn’t the cause if you have dry eyes syndrome.
Increased Friction and Discomfort
Without a stable tear film, lenses may rub against the eye’s surface more directly, leading to irritation, a foreign body sensation, or even corneal abrasions in severe cases.
Reduced Wearing Time
People with Dry Eyes Syndrome often report the inability to wear lenses for more than a few hours at a time due to drying, lens intolerance, and redness.
Higher Risk of Infection
An inadequate tear film also means less natural protection, increasing the risk of microbial keratitis and other lens-related complications.
Can You Wear Contact Lenses With Dry Eyes?
Yes—but with a proper understanding of your specific level of dryness and the right lens choice. The severity of your case indicates whether you can wear contacts.
People with moderately dry eyes can easily wear contacts by using artificial tears and opting for hydrogen-polymer lenses that help keep their eyes moist. However, regardless of the severity, you should strictly follow the lens care regimen to avoid any unnecessary complications.
Who Should Avoid Contacts (At Least Temporarily):
- Patients with severe dry eye syndrome, especially if corneal staining or ulcers are present
- Those experiencing persistent discomfort despite trying multiple lens types and treatments
If you experience consistent irritation, redness, or vision issues while wearing lenses, it's critical to stop wearing them and consult an optometrist or ophthalmologist.
Best Contact Lens Options for Dry Eye Patients
Not all lenses are created equal—especially when dry eyes are in the picture. Choosing the right type of contact lens is crucial for minimizing dryness and maximizing comfort. Following are some great options to avoid discomfort and enjoy a dryness-free experience.
Daily Disposable Lenses
These single-use lenses are made with ultra-breathable, moist materials and are discarded after each wear. Since there’s no buildup of deposits or cleaning agents, they're often less irritating to dry eyes.
Pros:
- Minimal risk of contamination
- Fresh lens every day
- Great for mild to moderate dryness
Silicone Hydrogel Lenses
These advanced lenses allow more oxygen to reach the cornea compared to traditional soft lenses, which helps maintain eye health. Some are specifically formulated to retain more moisture.
Pros:
- High oxygen permeability
- Long-lasting hydration
- Available in daily and extended wear options
Scleral Contact Lenses
For people with moderate to severe dry eyes, scleral lenses can be a game-changer. These large-diameter, gas-permeable lenses vault over the cornea and the rest of the sclera. They trap a reservoir of lens solution, creating a moist chamber that protects the eye throughout the day.
Pros:
- Exceptional comfort for severe dry eyes
- Can correct irregular corneas (e.g. in keratoconus)
- Stabilizes the tear film
Cons:
- Requires special fitting and handling
- More expensive than standard lenses
Managing Dry Eyes While Wearing Contacts
Contact lens use in dry eyes requires a multi-pronged care strategy. Here are medically sound ways to improve comfort and reduce complications:
Using Artificial Tears
Artificial tears provide essential moisture to the eyes, easing dryness and discomfort. Apply them before putting in your contact lenses to create a smooth, hydrated surface. Always opt for preservative-free drops to minimize the risk of irritation.
Follow a Strict Lens Hygiene Routine
Proper lens hygiene is crucial for preventing infections and irritation. Always use the cleaning solutions approved by your eye care professional, and avoid sleeping in your lenses. If you want a low-maintenance option, daily disposable lenses are the safest and most convenient choice.
Adjust Your Environment
Avoid air conditioning, ceiling fans, and dusty environments when possible. Use a humidifier to maintain air moisture levels, especially in winter or dry climates.
Blink Often and Consciously
Staring at screens can reduce blinking rates dramatically. Follow the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds) and make a habit of blinking fully.
When to Consult an Eye Care Professional
If dry eye symptoms persist despite at-home treatments or if contact lens discomfort becomes chronic, it’s time for professional intervention. A comprehensive eye exam can uncover underlying causes and guide a targeted treatment plan.
Red Flags Requiring Immediate Care:
- Persistent eye redness or pain
- Sudden vision changes
- Mucus discharge
- Photophobia (sensitivity to light)
- Contact lens intolerance after years of wear
Early diagnosis and proactive management significantly improve long-term outcomes, whether you continue using contact lenses or transition to alternatives.
Conclusion: Is It Possible to Wear Contacts With Dry Eyes?
Yes—but success depends on your condition, lens selection, and consistent care. While dry eye syndrome poses real challenges, it doesn't automatically mean you have to give up contact lenses forever. With newer lens technologies, advanced treatments, and help from your eye care professional, many dry eye sufferers can wear contacts comfortably and safely.
If you’re struggling with lens discomfort or suspect you have dry eyes, schedule an appointment with your optometrist. The solution may be as simple as changing your lens type—or as complex as a full medical treatment plan. Either way, relief is possible.
