Does the end of a long day leave your eyes feeling gritty, burning, or just plain tired behind your contact lenses? You are not alone! Many contact lens wearers battle the discomfort of dry eyes, making every blink a little less comfortable. Choosing the right contact lens solution can feel like navigating a maze. You see labels like “moisturizing,” “multi-purpose,” and “for sensitive eyes,” and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed about which one will actually help your dry eyes.
Don’t let dry eyes win the battle for comfortable vision! This guide cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what ingredients matter most when your eyes crave moisture. By the end of this post, you will know precisely how to pick a solution that keeps your lenses clean *and* keeps your eyes feeling refreshed all day long. Get ready to say goodbye to that afternoon eye sting and hello to clear, comfortable wear!
Top Contact Lens Solution For Dry Eyes Recommendations
- Biotrue Hydration Plus Multi-Purpose Solution keeps MORE MOISTURE on your contacts (for 12 hours compared to original Biotrue Multi-Purpose Solution, based on a laboratory study). Lens Case Included.
- CLEANS & DISINFECTS: Biotrue Hydration Plus contact lens solution provides exceptional cleaning and disinfection. It removes dirt and dissolves protein buildup for clean, clear lenses.
- MORE HYDRATION (vs. original Biotrue Multi-Purpose Solution): It's in the name: Biotrue Hydration Plus. It provides up to 20 hours of moisture (based on a laboratory study). Biotrue Hydration Plus offers all day comfort. It’s enhanced to keep EVEN MORE MOISTURE on your contacts (for 12 hours compared to original Biotrue Multi-Purpose Solution, based on a laboratory study).
- NATURALLY INSPIRED FEATURES: Biotrue Hydration Plus contains naturally inspired ingredients, inspired by the biology of the eye: it’s enhanced with 25% more hyaluronan (a.k.a. HA, a moisturizer found naturally in tears) vs. original Biotrue Multi-Purpose Solution; contains an antioxidant (protects HA against free radicals); as well as potassium (an electrolyte found naturally in tears). Biotrue Hydration Plus also matches the pH of healthy tears to help make contacts comfortable when you put them in.
- MULTI-PURPOSE SOLUTION: Biotrue Hydration Plus contact lens solution can be used to store, clean, and disinfect contacts in a lens case when not being worn, or to rinse contacts before wear. Available in 4 fl oz bottles, 10 fl oz bottles, and packs of two 10 fl oz bottles. For soft contact lenses including silicone hydrogel lenses. BIO.0050.USA.23
- Relief with Every Blink: Blink Contacts Lubricating Eye Drops moisturize dry contact lenses to provide long-lasting comfort. These drops work with the eye's natural tears to help keep your contact lenses feeling fresh and comfortable all day
- Hydration Boost with Hyaluronate: Our moisturizing eye drops instantly moisturize dry lenses. Our unique hyaluronate formulate works as a hydration booster to help contacts stay refreshed and comfortable through end of day
- Comfort till End of Day: Blink Contacts Lubricating Eye Drops are formulated with beneficial electrolytes similar to those found in natural tears. Enjoy the freedom to wear your soft or RGP lenses while experiencing long-lasting comfort
- Moisturizes Dry Lenses: The Blink Contacts Lubricating Eye Drops rewet and moisturize lenses before insertion and during wear, moisturizing and refreshing lenses. They reduce the feeling of contact lens dryness to help maintain comfort to the end of the day and reduce discomfort that may lead to removing your lenses early
- Trusted Brand: Blink has a range of products to meet your eye and contact lens care needs, from drops for dry eyes to lock in moisture, to preservative-free formulas; and contact lens drops to keep your contacts clean and hydrated. Blink products provide comfort and hydration, to help your eyes and contacts feel moisturized
- The doctor recommended multi-purpose solution
- No matter what your day brings, Opti-Free Puremoist gives you all-day comfort
- Exclusive formula gets rid of microorganisms that can cause eye infections
- HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix surrounds your lenses in a cushion of moisture, provides all-day comfort and creates a barrier that reduces deposits and debris
- For cleaning and disinfecting all Silicone Hydrogel and other Soft Contact Lenses
- NATURALLY INSPIRED INGREDIENTS: Biotrue Hydration Boost for Contacts are enhanced with HA (Hyaluronan), Antioxidant (Protects HA from free radicals), and Electrolyte.
- LASTING MOISTURE: For up to 8 hours of moisture (based on a laboratory study) and to help prevent deposit buildup.
- REWETTING DROPS FOR CONTACT LENSES: Biotrue Hydration Boost for Contacts are the first preservative free multi-dose contact lens drops.
- BIOTRUE CONTACT LENS DROPS: Not only are Biotrue Hydration Boost for Contacts free of preservatives but they are also pH balanced for comfort.
- EYE DROPS & MORE: Bausch + Lomb makes eye care products you can trust, from contact lens solutions to eye drops, vitamins, & ointments to help your contacts and eyes feel moisturized and protected.
- Biotrue contact lens solution helps contacts stay moist and comfortable all day long.
- CLEANS & DISINFECTS: Biotrue contact lens solution provides exceptional cleaning and disinfection. It removes dirt and protein buildup for clean, clear lenses.
- HYDRATES: Biotrue provides up to 20 hours of moisture (based on a laboratory study). Biotrue offers all day comfort. Biotrue is gentle and helps lenses stay comfortable when using digital devices.
- NATURALLY INSPIRED FEATURES: We believe that the best inspiration comes from nature. That's why our formula is inspired by the biology of the eye. Biotrue contact lens solution contains hyaluronan (HA), a moisturizer found naturally in tears. Biotrue also matches the pH of healthy tears to help make contacts comfortable when you put them in.
- MULTI-PURPOSE SOLUTION: Biotrue contact lens solution can be used to store, clean, and disinfect contacts in a lens case when not being worn, or to rinse contacts before wear. Available in 2 fl oz bottles, 4 fl oz bottles, 10 fl oz bottles, and packs of two 10 fl oz bottles. For soft contact lenses including silicone hydrogel lenses. BIO.0050.USA.23
- Value from Eye Care Experts: From Bausch + Lomb, Renu contact solution is trusted by over 1 million households nationwide and includes a contact lens case.
- All day Comfort: Designed to be easy on the eyes, Renu contact lenses solution helps keep lenses hydrated and comfortable from morning to night, helping lenses feel fresh at the end of the day.
- Long-Lasting Moisture: Hydrates lenses to provide up to 20 hours of moisture (based on a laboratory study) and helps prevent lens dryness. A lens cleaner that supports eye care and keeps your lenses fresh throughout the day.
- Exceptional Cleaning & Disinfection: Cleans and helps prevent deposit buildup on contact lenses when used daily, with triple disinfectant action for excellent disinfection.
- Multi-purpose lens solution: Renu contact lens solution conditions, cleans, removes protein, disinfects, and rinses. Suitable for soft lenses, including silicone hydrogel.
Your Guide to Choosing the Best Contact Lens Solution for Dry Eyes
Do your eyes feel scratchy or dry when you wear contact lenses? You are not alone! Many people struggle with dry eyes, especially when wearing contacts. The right cleaning solution can make a huge difference. This guide helps you pick the best one for comfortable, clear vision.
Key Features to Look For
When buying a solution, focus on features that fight dryness and keep your lenses clean. These are the most important things to check:
- Moisturizing Ingredients: Look for ingredients like hyaluronic acid or poloxamer. These ingredients attract and hold water onto your lenses, keeping your eyes feeling fresh all day.
- Rewetting Power: Some solutions are specially made to rewet your lenses even after they are out of the case. This is great if you wear your lenses for long hours.
- Compatibility: Make sure the solution works with your specific type of contact lens (like silicone hydrogel or soft lenses). Not all solutions work well with every lens type.
- No Rub vs. Rub: “No Rub” solutions are easy, but sometimes rubbing your lenses gently with a “Rub” solution removes more protein buildup, which can cause irritation. Decide what fits your routine best.
Important Materials and What They Mean
The ingredients list tells you a lot about how the solution will treat your eyes.
Disinfecting Agents
Most solutions use chemicals to kill germs. Common ones include Polyaminopropyl Biguanide (PHMB) or Hydrogen Peroxide systems. Peroxide systems clean very well but require a special case and must completely neutralize before use. If you have very sensitive eyes, look for solutions with gentler preservatives or preservative-free options.
Rinsing and Storage Agents
These materials help keep the pH balanced, matching your eye’s natural environment. A balanced pH means less stinging when you put your lenses in.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes one solution better than another for dry eyes? It often comes down to how gentle the formula is.
Quality Boosters
Solutions that use less harsh preservatives improve comfort significantly. Ingredients that mimic natural tears (like glycerin) also boost quality by providing sustained moisture.
Quality Reducers
High levels of alcohol or strong cleaning agents can strip moisture from your lenses, making dryness worse. Also, if a solution contains ingredients your eyes react badly to, it lowers the quality for you, even if it is highly rated by others.
User Experience and Use Cases
Think about how you live and how you use your lenses.
- Sensitive Eyes: If your eyes burn easily, choose “multi-purpose” solutions labeled “for sensitive eyes” or “preservative-free.”
- Long Days: If you work long hours, look for solutions specifically marketed for extended wear comfort. These often have built-in rewetting agents.
- Travel: If you travel a lot, a standard multi-purpose solution is usually easier than a two-step peroxide system.
Always follow the instructions on the bottle. Never use tap water or saliva with your lenses or solution. Good hygiene prevents infections.
10 Frequently Asked Questions About Contact Lens Solution for Dry Eyes
Q: What makes a solution good for dry eyes?
A: A good solution contains moisturizing agents, like hyaluronic acid, that keep the lens wet for longer periods.
Q: Should I use a “No Rub” or “Rub and Rinse” solution?
A: “Rub and Rinse” often cleans better by removing debris. However, if rubbing irritates your dry eyes, a high-quality “No Rub” solution might be better for your comfort.
Q: Can I use regular saline solution for cleaning contacts?
A: No. Saline solution only rinses; it does not disinfect your lenses. Using only saline can lead to serious eye infections.
Q: How often should I change my solution?
A: Always discard the old solution after you take your lenses out. Never top off old solution with fresh solution. Use a fresh batch every day.
Q: Are preservative-free solutions always better for dry eyes?
A: Often, yes. Preservatives can sometimes cause irritation in sensitive eyes. However, preservative-free solutions must be discarded very quickly after opening.
Q: What is the difference between multi-purpose and hydrogen peroxide systems?
A: Multi-purpose solutions clean, rinse, and store in one step. Peroxide systems clean very deeply but require a special neutralizer disc or case.
Q: Can I use my solution if the bottle has been open for a while?
A: Check the bottle! Most solutions must be thrown away 90 days after opening, even if there is liquid left, because they lose effectiveness.
Q: Does rewetting drops help if I use the wrong solution?
A: Rewetting drops offer temporary relief. However, using a moisturizing disinfecting solution from the start works better for long-term comfort.
Q: What should I do if my eyes sting when I insert my lenses?
A: Stinging often means the solution’s pH is off or it contains an ingredient your eyes dislike. Try switching to a different, gentler formula.
Q: Does the solution affect my lens comfort after several hours?
A: Yes, significantly. A solution that deposits fewer proteins and retains more moisture helps your lenses feel comfortable even late in the day.