If you have dry eyes, wearing contact lenses can feel like a daily challenge. That gritty, scratchy sensation can make it hard to focus on your day. You might even wonder if comfortable contact lens wear is possible for you and your family.
There’s good news for anyone who struggles with discomfort. The most comfortable contacts for dry eyes are typically those with modern materials and built-in moisture technology. A professional contact lens exam is the first step to finding your perfect fit.
How Dry Eyes Affect Contact Lens Wear
When your eyes don’t produce enough quality tears, you already deal with gritty, scratchy, or tired eyes. Wearing contact lenses can sometimes make these symptoms more noticeable. This happens because a contact lens sits on your tear film, which can disrupt the natural flow of moisture across your eye’s surface.
Common signs of dry eye caused by contact lenses include:
- A sandy or gritty feeling
- Redness & irritation
- Blurry vision
- Feeling like you need to blink more often
- Lenses that feel uncomfortable by the end of the day
Not all contact lenses are made the same. Some lens materials can absorb moisture from your tears, leaving your eyes feeling even drier. The fit of the lens also matters, as a lens that’s too tight or too loose can cause irritation and dryness.
What To Look For in Contacts for Dry Eyes
Modern technology has led to lenses that work with your eye’s natural moisture to provide longer-lasting comfort. When you look for contacts designed for dry eyes, you’ll want to look for a few key features:
Lens Material
Newer lens materials, like silicone hydrogel, are designed to let more oxygen pass through to your eye. This increased breathability helps your eyes avoid hypoxia, a condition where the cornea doesn’t get enough oxygen, which can reduce dryness. These materials also resist deposit buildup, which keeps the lenses feeling smooth & comfortable.
Wetting Agents and Moisture Technology
Some contacts have moisture-rich technology built directly into the lens. These wetting agents are released throughout the day as you blink, helping to keep the lens surface hydrated. Think of them as eyedrops built right into the lenses This can make a big difference in how your eyes feel after many hours of wear.
Wear Schedule
Contact lenses are designed to be worn for specific amounts of time, with some lenses intended to be worn multiple times. Rigid gas-permeable lenses have many benefits, but they are also susceptible to bacteria buildup if not properly cared for. This can lead to unnecessary irritation for many people with dry eyes.
Daily Disposable Lenses and Dry Eye Relief
Daily disposable lenses are a great option for those with chronic dry eye. They offer convenience & comfort without the need for cleaning solutions or cases.
When you wear daily contacts, you start with a fresh, clean pair each morning. This eliminates the daily buildup of proteins & allergens that can accumulate on other lenses.
Many people with dry, sensitive eyes find daily lenses more comfortable because they don’t have time to dry out or accumulate deposits. Since you toss them at the end of the day, you also avoid potential irritation from contact lens solutions. Your optometrist can help you decide if dailies fit your lifestyle & vision needs, especially since improper lens habits can increase risks.
Scleral Lenses for Dry Eye
Unlike traditional contacts that rest directly on the sensitive corneal surface, scleral lenses are large-diameter, rigid gas-permeable lenses designed to arch completely over the cornea. They rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye), which is much less sensitive.
Additionally, scleral lenses make use of a liquid reservoir. Before inserting the lens, you’ll fill the lens’s “bowl” with sterile saline solution. Once applied, this creates a permanent reservoir of moisture that bathes your cornea throughout the day. This also creates a smooth optical surface that provides crisp, clear vision.
Contact Lens Brands That Focus on Comfort
Several brands offer contact lenses with technology specifically designed to help with dryness. After a thorough contact lens exam, we can recommend a brand that matches your eye shape, prescription, & lifestyle.
Here are some of the brands with lenses specifically designed for dry eyes:
Acuvue Oasys Family
This line of lenses is known for its moisture technology that mimics natural tears. It helps stabilize the tear film. This is a key factor for comfortable all day wear, especially for those with dry eyes.
Dailies Total1 Family
These lenses feature an innovative water gradient design. The surface of the lens that touches your eye has a high water content. This should provide a cushion of moisture for comfort that lasts all day.
Precision1 Family
Designed for dependable comfort, these daily disposable lenses have a micro-thin layer of moisture on the surface. This technology helps support a stable tear film.
Get The Right Fit For Your Family’s Eyes
A contact lens is a medical device, & one size does not fit all. The best way to find a comfortable contact lens for dry eyes is a dedicated contact lens exam. This is when your optometrist can take eye measurements and evaluate your tear film to determine which lens material & brand will work best.At Bluebird Vision + Wellness, our mission is a lifetime of healthy vision for you and your family. If you’re struggling with contact lens discomfort due to dry eyes, we can help find a solution. Schedule a contact lens exam with us today to explore your options for clear and comfortable vision.
