Do’s and Don’ts of Contact Lenses in the Summer

To keep contact lenses convenient and effective, it is important to take proper care of them, especially in the summer. Increased heat, outdoor activities, and exposure to water can all impact comfort and eye health. Following a few do’s and don’ts makes it possible to enjoy clear vision and protect the eyes all summer long.

Do’s and don’ts: Caring for contact lenses in the summer

Summer introduces several factors that can impact how contact lenses perform. Heat, humidity, and environmental irritants (e.g., dust, pollen, and chlorine) can contribute to dryness and discomfort. Additionally, increased time spent swimming, traveling, or engaging in outdoor recreation may expose contacts to harmful elements. Practicing seasonal do’s and avoiding common don’ts can protect the eyes and keep contact lenses in optimal condition.

What to do

Drinking plenty of water in the summer helps prevent dehydration, which may reduce tear production and cause contact lenses to feel dry or uncomfortable. Drinking water regularly and using preservative-free rewetting drops can help maintain proper moisture on the surface of the eye. An optometrist may recommend switching to contacts with a higher water content or daily disposables for added comfort during the hotter months.

Wearing UV-protective sunglasses over contact lenses can also be beneficial in the summer. Although some contacts offer built-in UV protection, they do not cover the entire eye. Sunglasses act as a shield against harmful UV rays and protect the eyes from wind, dust, and debris during outdoor activities. This added protection supports both eye health and lens performance.

Proper hygiene is another key part of caring for contact lenses, even more so when traveling or spending time outdoors. Always wash hands thoroughly with soap and water before inserting or removing contacts, including at campsites or the beach. Carrying travel-sized cleaning solutions and extra contacts helps maintain good hygiene while away from home. It is also a good idea to have a backup pair of prescription glasses on hand in case contacts get dirty, damaged, or lost during summer outings.

What not to do

Certain habits can increase the risk of eye infections or discomfort during summer. To keep eyes healthy while wearing contact lenses, avoid the following:

• Swimming with contacts. Pools, lakes, and hot tubs contain microorganisms that can stick to contacts and lead to serious infections.
• Sleeping with contacts in. After long days outdoors, it may be tempting to sleep with contacts in, but doing so reduces oxygen to the eyes and raises the risk of complications.
• Ignoring irritation. Redness, dryness, or blurred vision may signal a problem, so consult an optometrist to prevent more serious issues.

Additionally, regardless of the season, using tap water or saliva to clean contacts or cases is never safe. Water contains microorganisms that can contaminate contact lenses and lead to serious eye conditions. In the summer, make sure to bring extra cleaning solution when traveling or attending outdoor events. By avoiding these common don’ts, contact lens wearers can protect their eyes and enjoy worry-free summer activities.

Have more questions?

Wearing contact lenses in the summer can be comfortable and safe with the right care and awareness. Learning more about how seasonal factors affect the eyes and adopting practical habits makes a meaningful difference in lens performance and eye health. Contact our Carmi optometrist for further guidance on contact lens care during the summer months.

Request an appointment here: https://www.carmieyecare.com or call Carmi Eye Care at (618) 374-0513 for an appointment in our Downey office.

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