Does wearing your contact lenses sometimes feel like rubbing sandpaper on your eyes? You are not alone. Many contact lens wearers battle dry, uncomfortable eyes by the end of the day. It is frustrating when your lenses feel great in the morning but turn into tiny irritants by lunchtime. Finding the perfect solution can feel like a maze, with every bottle promising relief but delivering mixed results.
Choosing the wrong solution can worsen dryness and even damage your lenses or eyes. You need a product that cleans effectively while adding the moisture your eyes crave. This guide cuts through the confusing labels and marketing hype. We will break down what truly matters in a contact lens solution specifically for dry eyes.
Keep reading to discover the key ingredients to look for, the different types of solutions available, and how to match the best one to your specific needs. Get ready to say goodbye to that gritty, dry feeling and hello to comfortable, all-day lens 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.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for Contact Lens Solution for Dry Eyes
Wearing contact lenses can sometimes feel like your eyes are having a desert adventure. If you struggle with dryness, you need a special solution. This guide helps you pick the best contact lens solution to keep your eyes feeling refreshed and comfortable all day long.
Key Features to Look For
When your eyes are dry, you need a solution that does more than just clean your lenses. Look for these important features:
- Re-wetting Agents: These ingredients act like tiny moisturizers for your lenses. They help your lenses hold onto water better throughout the day.
- High Water Content: Solutions with higher water content often feel gentler when you put your lenses in.
- Lubricating Ingredients: Look for things like Hyaluronic Acid (HA) or Polyquad. These ingredients create a smooth, slippery layer on the lens surface, reducing friction when you blink.
- Compatibility with Lens Type: Make sure the solution works safely with your specific type of lens (daily disposables, bi-weekly, silicone hydrogel, etc.). Always check the label!
Important Materials in the Solution
The ingredients list tells the real story about how moisturizing a solution will be. Some materials are superstars for dry eyes:
The Hydrators
- Hyaluronic Acid (HA): This is a natural substance your body makes. When added to solution, it attracts and retains water, keeping your lenses moist for longer periods.
- Polyethylene Glycol (PEG): This ingredient helps the solution mix well with your natural tears and provides continuous lubrication.
The Cleaners (Keep an eye on these)
Most good solutions use gentle disinfectants. However, some people with very sensitive or dry eyes react poorly to strong chemicals.
- Avoid High Levels of Preservatives: Ingredients like BAK (Benzalkonium Chloride) can sometimes build up on the lens surface and actually cause dryness or irritation over time. If you are very sensitive, look for “Rewetting Drops” or “Multi-Purpose Solutions” labeled “Preservative-Free” or using gentler preservatives like Polyquad.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a solution great for dry eyes, and what ruins the comfort?
What Improves Comfort
- Hydrogen Peroxide Systems: While they require a specific neutralizing disc, these systems offer the deepest clean without harsh chemical preservatives. They are often recommended for sensitive eyes after the neutralization process is complete.
- Longer Soaking Times: Solutions that require a longer soak time (sometimes 6-8 hours) often allow the lens material to fully absorb more moisture, leading to better comfort when you wear them.
What Reduces Comfort
- Using Tap Water: Never use tap water! It contains microorganisms that can seriously harm your eyes. Only use sterile, approved solutions.
- Not Rinsing Properly: If you use a multi-purpose solution, make sure you rub and rinse your lenses according to the directions. Leftover debris or cleaning agents cause irritation.
- Using Expired Solution: Old or opened solutions lose their effectiveness and sterility. Always check the expiration date.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you use the solution matters just as much as what’s in the bottle. Think about your daily routine.
Best Use Cases
- End-of-Day Comfort: If your lenses feel dry by 4 PM, switch to a solution containing HA. This targets that afternoon slump.
- Sensitive Eyes: If you often feel a burning sensation, switch to a preservative-free system (like a peroxide cleaner) or a solution that uses only mild preservatives like Polyquad.
- Long Wear Times: If you wear contacts for 12+ hours, choose a robust moisturizing solution that also has good cleaning power, so debris doesn’t worsen the dryness.
Remember, even the best solution might not fix the problem if your lenses are old or if you aren’t drinking enough water! Consult your eye doctor if dryness persists.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Contact Lens Solution for Dry Eyes
Q: Can any contact lens solution help my dry eyes?
A: No. Standard cleaners might clean the lens, but they might not add the extra moisture your dry eyes need. You must look for solutions specifically labeled for hydration or comfort.
Q: What is the best ingredient for moisturizing lenses?
A: Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is often considered the best ingredient because it naturally holds onto water, keeping your lenses moist longer.
Q: Should I use a preservative-free solution if I have dry eyes?
A: Maybe. Some preservatives irritate dry eyes. Preservative-free systems (usually peroxide cleaners) are gentle, but you must follow the neutralization instructions exactly.
Q: How often should I switch to a new bottle of solution?
A: You should discard any unused solution remaining in the bottle 90 days after opening it, even if the solution itself has not expired.
Q: Can I reuse my contact lens solution?
A: Absolutely not. Reusing solution reduces its disinfecting power and allows germs and debris to build up, which makes dryness and irritation much worse.
Q: Does rinsing my lenses with rewetting drops help?
A: Yes. If you feel dryness during the day, using lubricating rewetting drops directly on the lens (while it is in your eye) can provide immediate, temporary relief.
Q: Are multi-purpose solutions good enough for severe dry eye?
A: They are good for mild to moderate dryness. For severe dryness, a dedicated hydrogen peroxide system or a solution with very high levels of HA might work better.
Q: Will my contact lenses themselves cause the dryness?
A: Sometimes. Older lenses or lenses made from materials that don’t breathe well can dry out faster. Ask your eye doctor about newer, more breathable lens materials.
Q: How long does it take for a new solution to make a difference?
A: You should notice a difference in comfort within the first day or two of switching to a highly moisturizing solution.
Q: Is it okay to use saline solution instead of a multi-purpose solution?
A: No. Saline solution only rinses the lenses; it does not disinfect or clean them. Using only saline is unsafe for lens wear.