Is it okay to wear contact lenses during winter?

You can wear contact lenses during the winter, as they're unlikely to freeze. However, the weather can still present risks. The wind, freezing temperatures, and dry heat can leave your skin, hair, and eyes feeling dry or irritated — and who wants to deal with uncomfortable eyes when you could be skiing or ice skating?

Winter is often harder on people who wear contacts. These little lenses affect your tear film and reduce the amount of oxygen that reaches your eyes, making them more prone to discomfort and dryness, even in warm weather. And when winter hits, and your eyes are already struggling to stay moisturized, your contacts could make things worse.

That's why you might notice an increase in dryness, scratchiness, and discomfort during the winter months. If your contacts get too dry, you could run the risk of significant irritation, infection, or blurry vision.

We get it — that all sounds somewhat alarming. But wearing contacts doesn't mean you'll be stuck indoors dealing with dry eyes all winter. By taking a few simple but powerful steps to maximize moisture, you can wear your contacts comfortably throughout the cold season.

Best tips for wearing contacts in cold weather:

1. Don’t stress about whether contacts freeze.

2. Use lubricating drops.

3. Consider a humidifier at home.

4. Limit screen time (and other activities that can exacerbate dryness).

5. Wear the right lenses.

6. Use eye protection outside.

1. Don’t stress about whether contacts freeze

Contact lenses are highly unlikely to freeze when you're wearing them, even when the weather is extremely cold. The heat from your body keeps them at a comfortable temperature, and your tears help keep them moist. As long as you're blinking normally, you have nothing to worry about. (In other words, don't attempt a staring contest in frigid temps.)

However, your contacts can certainly freeze when they're off your eyeballs. If you leave a box of fresh contacts outside on the doorstep overnight or you forget them in the car (like that half-eaten muffin), you might end up with contacts in frozen solution. And even then, it's not a big deal — just let them thaw out, and they'll be ready to wear in no time.

2. Use lubricating drops

Lubricating drops are one of the easiest ways to protect your contacts and eyes from cold winter weather. Products such as SYSTANE® ULTRA Lubricant Eye Drops provide quick hydration, so you can keep going on blustery or below-freezing days. Just add a couple of drops to each eye (or whatever the packaging recommends). We recommend keeping a bottle in your bag or desk for relief when you need it.

3. Consider a humidifier at home

Humidifiers release moisture into the air, which helps combat the effects of dry heat. It's an effective way to hydrate your eyes, skin, and hair, especially if your home has forced-air heating or electric baseboard heaters.

Set your humidifier to maintain a humidity level of about 30-50%. If you've had issues with mold, aim for the lower end of the range. Lower the setting if you notice condensation on your windows. Make sure to clean the humidifier regularly to avoid circulating bacteria that could build up on your lenses.

4. Limit screen time (and other activities that can exacerbate dryness)

We know, we know — what else are you going to do during a deep freeze but doomscroll? Although it might be entertaining, screen time can dry out your eyes. You tend to blink less, so the moisture on your eyes evaporates faster than usual.

While you're at it, you might want to avoid other activities that can cause dry eyes or make dryness worse, such as:

• Reading

• Limiting your water intake

• Sitting too close to a heater or heating vent

• Smoking or hanging out with smokers

• Driving for extended periods

• Flying on airplanes

5. Wear the right lenses

If you're struggling with dry contacts in winter, talk to your eye care professional about switching contacts temporarily. Lenses that are designed for dry eyes may help you stay comfortable even when it's cold and windy outside. Soft, breathable options such as Biotrue® ONEday, DAILIES® AquaComfort Plus®, and ACUVUE® OASYS® with Hydraclear® Plus can help you feel moisturized all day long.

Are you currently wearing monthly or biweekly contacts? Ask your eye care professional if it would be helpful to switch to dailies. Because you'll put in a fresh pair every day, it might help you avoid protein buildup that could exacerbate dryness.

6. Use eye protection outside

Don't put your sunglasses away when winter hits — your eyes need the extra protection, even if there's no sun (sad). The lenses help keep the wind off your eyes, which can help prevent them from drying out quickly. If you live in a snowy place, they can also help reduce the glare off the white stuff.

Are you a skier or snowboarder? Make sure to invest in a good pair of goggles. You need the protection, whether you're flying down a double black diamond or taking it easy on the bunny slope.

Wearing contacts in the winter

It's usually okay to wear contacts in the winter, but you might need to take a few extra precautions to stay comfortable. Moisture is your best friend. Go the extra mile to keep your eyes feeling moisturized, and you're less likely to end up with dry contacts and irritated eyes. By controlling your environment, activities, and eye protection, you can make it through the winter months without switching to glasses.

If you're trying new contacts or sticking with your tried-and-true style, 1-800 Contacts makes it easy to stay stocked. Shop online today to find the same brand of contacts your eye care professional prescribed.

 

Did you know you can order contacts online? 

Say goodbye to trips to the eye doctor and hello to convenience! With 1-800 Contacts, you can easily order your contact lenses online and have them delivered straight to your door. Plus, our online vision exam makes it simple to get the prescription you need without leaving home. And the best part? You’ll save money on your first order with 1-800 Contacts. It’s never been easier to get your contacts! 

Original published date: 1/11/2021

Update: 4/2/2026