Can You Shower With Contacts?

As a contact lens wearer for the past ten years, I’ve always wondered if it’s safe to shower with my contacts in. I’ve heard conflicting opinions from friends and eye doctors, so I decided to do some research and share my findings with you.

Is it Safe to Shower With Contacts?

The short answer is no, it’s not safe to shower with your contacts in. Water, whether it’s from the shower, pool, or hot tub, can introduce harmful bacteria and microorganisms to your eyes, which can lead to infections and other eye problems.

Why is Water Dangerous for Contact Lenses?

Water contains various microorganisms that can cause eye infections, such as Acanthamoeba keratitis, a rare but serious infection that can lead to permanent vision loss. These microorganisms can get trapped under your contact lenses and thrive in the warm, moist environment. Moreover, water can cause contact lenses to swell, warp, or stick to your eyes, making them uncomfortable and difficult to remove.

What Should You Do Instead?

If you want to avoid the risks of showering with contacts, here are some alternatives:

Take out your contacts before showering and put them back in afterward.
Wear prescription goggles or swim masks if you need to see in the water.
Consider getting daily disposable contacts if you frequently swim or shower.

Pros and Cons of Showering With Contacts

Here are some pros and cons of wearing contacts in the shower:

Pros:

You can see clearly while showering.
You don’t have to take out and put back in your contacts.

Cons:

You risk exposing your eyes to harmful bacteria and microorganisms.
You may experience discomfort or difficulty removing your contacts afterward.

FAQs

Q: Can I wear contacts while swimming?

A: No, you should not wear contacts while swimming for the same reasons you should not wear them in the shower. Water can introduce harmful bacteria and microorganisms to your eyes and cause other problems.

Q: What should I do if I accidentally wear my contacts in the shower or pool?

A: Take out your contacts immediately and disinfect them with contact lens solution. Monitor your eyes for any redness, pain, or discharge, and see your eye doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

My Personal Review and Suggestion

After researching and considering the risks, I’ve decided to take out my contacts before showering or swimming. While it’s convenient to be able to see clearly in the water, the potential risks outweigh the benefits for me. I also plan to invest in prescription goggles or swim masks for when I need to see in the water. As always, consult with your eye doctor if you have any concerns or questions about wearing contacts.