Dry Eyes from Contacts? How to Rehydrate Your Lenses Safely & Avoid Irritation

Can I Use Water to Rehydrate Contact Lenses?

NO. Never use tap water, distilled water, or saliva to rehydrate your contact lenses. Water contains bacteria and microorganisms (like Acanthamoeba) that can cause severe, sight-threatening infections. Water also disrupts the salinity balance of the lens, causing it to swell and stick to your eye.

How to Safely Rehydrate Contact Lenses

If your contacts feel like sandpaper, follow these safe steps:

1. Use Contact Lens Rewetting Drops

Not all eye drops are safe for contacts. Look for drops labeled "For Contact Lenses" or "Rewetting Drops." Avoid "Redness Relief" drops, as they can discolor lenses and cause long-term dryness.

2. The "Soak and Clean" Method

If drops aren't enough, take your lenses out.

a: Rub them gently with fresh multipurpose solution.

b: Let them soak in the case for at least 4-6 hours.

c: Wear your glasses in the meantime to let your corneas breathe.

3. Switch to Polymacon Lenses

High-water content lenses can sometimes dehydrate your eyes, and ionic materials tend to attract protein buildup.

• The Solution: Switch to Polymacon lenses (like Eyemoody Contact Lenses). Their stable moisture retention prevents the lens from drying out, ensuring durable comfort and easy handling throughout the day.

4. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

Staring at screens reduces your blink rate by 60%.

• The Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This forces a full blink and recoats the lens with tears.