Can you use contact solution as eye drops?

Picture this: you're on a trip where this isn’t a store in sight, much less one that sells eye drops. Your eyes are starting to feel as dry as the Sahara Desert. You look at your contact lens solution, thinking, "Just maybe..." We're here to tell you exactly why you shouldn't use contact solution as eye drops, even though it might sound like a nifty idea in the moment.

Understanding the compatibility of contact solution and eye drops 

We get why you might think contact solution is okay to put in your eyes. After all, the lens goes into the contact solution and then goes into your eye, right? But there's something to this logic that doesn't quite meet the eye (wink).

Composition and purpose 

While many contact lens solutions and drops contain saline solution, which isn't bad for your eyes at all, contact solutions also have disinfectants and preservatives that traditional eye drops don't. That's because nobody wants to disinfect their eyeballs. That bacteria on your eyes? It’s supposed to be there. That bacteria is your friend.

Contact lens solutions are made for removing bacteria (from your lenses!) and giving them a good scrub so they're squeaky clean. Trust us when we say you don't want that disinfecting stuff in your eyes.

Potential risks and concerns 

Your eyes stay nice and hydrated with a natural tear film made up of three layers. One layer contains oil, another water, and the last one mucus. They're kind of like the "Three Wise Layers" bearing gifts that keep your eyes happy. The preservatives and disinfectants found in contact solutions can do some damage to your protective tear film, causing your eyes to feel drier and more irritated in the process. 

As a matter of fact, the problem with your dry, irritated eyes could just be your contact lens solution. Sometimes, just a little bit still gets into your eyes, even if you're super careful. On top of that, solutions that contain hydrogen peroxide could really hurt your eyes if any of that gets near them and even result in a trip to the emergency room.

Alternatives and safe practices 

So, what's a contact wearer with dry, irritated eyes to do? We're so glad you asked because we have a few ideas about eye drops for contact wearers to help keep your peepers in tip-top shape.

Recommended eye drops for various purposes 

• Rewetting drops: Rewetting drops are made specifically to rehydrate your contact lenses while you're wearing them and can also lubricate your eyes. They're like contact lens solutions but don't have preservatives and disinfectants. What's not to love?
• Artificial tears: Unlike rewetting drops, lubricating eye drops are meant to help dry, irritated eyes. However, these are not the same as "get-the-red-out" drops, which have ingredients that can cause damage to your lenses and should be avoided. Be sure to check the label for any drops you're considering to make sure they're safe for contacts.
• Specialized eye drops: There are many other medicated drops designed to treat various conditions, including:
  • Allergy drops
  • Vasoconstrictor drops
  • Prescription drops for specific eye issues, including pink eye and glaucoma

Safe practices for eye care 

Regardless of the type of drops you use, be sure to keep your hands germ-free and avoid touching the tip of the applicator to any surface, especially your (not germ-free) eyes.

Common misconceptions and myths 

You might find a lot of opinions online about whether you can use contact solution as eye drops, but when it comes to consulting strangers on the internet about anything, you should just stick to cat videos.

Dispelling myths 

Some people may claim that they've used contact solution as eye drops and nothing bad happened. Many people think it's okay because they both contain saline solution. However, if you have any questions about what to use for dry eyes, the best person to ask is your trusty eye care professional.

Recap: Can you use contact solution as eye drops?

Well, you should already know the answer to that by now unless you just skipped all the way to the bottom. So, just in case you did: nope. However, if you still have questions, (we can't say this too many times) ask your eye care professional. In the meantime, you can buy contact lens solution and eye drops (and contacts!) online with our Gajillion percent promise, so you're always prepared.

FAQs

Can you use contact solution as a substitute for eye drops? 

That's a big no-no. You shouldn't do it, not even in a pinch. Contact solution is made for cleaning your lenses (when they're not in your eyes) only.

What are the potential risks of using contact solution in the eyes? 

While it's safe to assume your eyes aren't going to just fall out, potential risks include:

• Redness
• Stinging, burning, and irritation
• Inflammation
• Eye pain
• Damage to your tear film
• Persistent dryness
• Damage to your cornea (with solutions that contain hydrogen peroxide)

When should I consult with an eye care professional regarding eye drops and contact solution? 

You should consult your eye care professional any time you have questions or hear silly ideas about using contact solution as eye drops.