With the arrival of summer, beaches, swimming pools and sunny days become the ideal setting for enjoying your free time. However, for contact lens wearers, a frequent and very important question arises every year: is it safe to swim with contact lenses? The short answer is no, but let's take a look at why, what the risks are and what alternatives are available to look after your eye health without sacrificing good vision on holiday.
Why is bathing with contact lenses not recommended?
Bathing with contact lenses, whether in the pool, in the sea or even in the shower, is not a safe practice and can have serious consequences for eye health. Although many people do it for convenience or out of a need to see well, the truth is that water - even water that looks clean - can have serious health consequences. is never completely sterileand may pose a significant risk when combined with contact lens wear.
Contact lenses are made of porous materials that allow oxygen to pass through to the cornea, which is essential to keep the eye healthy. However, this porosity also makes contact lenses a ideal surface for micro-organisms to adhere toespecially when they come into contact with contaminated water.
Main reasons why their use in water is discouraged:
1. High risk of eye infections
The main danger of wearing contact lenses in water is the significantly increased risk of eye infections. Water (from swimming pools, rivers, lakes, the sea or even tap water) can contain bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa.
When these microorganisms are trapped between the contact lens and the eye, they can trigger severe infections such as:
- Bacterial conjunctivitis
- Infectious keratitis (inflammation of the cornea)
- Corneal ulcers (open injuries that can leave permanent sequelae)
2. Acanthamoeba contamination: a real and serious threat
The Acanthamoeba is a protozoan commonly found in fresh water, swimming pools, running water systems and wet soil. The amoeba resists chlorination of water. If it comes into contact with a contact lens-wearing eye, it can cause a rare but extremely serious infection called amoebic keratitis which can lead to corneal transplantation.
This pathology is difficult to diagnose in the initial stages, very painful and, in advanced cases, can cause permanent visual loss or even require a corneal transplant. Although its frequency is low, risk increases significantly with contact lens wear in humid environments.
3. Eye irritation and inflammation
Chlorine in swimming pools or salt in sea water not only alters the natural pH of the eye, but also can get trapped under the lenscausing irritation, itching, redness and a gritty sensation.
This is especially common if the person opens their eyes under water or keeps their lenses in for a long time after bathing.
4. Displacement, loss or damage of the lens
Contact with water can also cause the lens to shift, fold or even fall out of the eye. In the case of soft contact lenses, the material becomes more flexible when wet, which can alter its shape and increase discomfort or risk of injury when trying to reposition it without proper hygiene.
5. Limitation of the eye's natural defence capability
The human eye has a natural protection system against external agents, including the tear film and eyelids. Wearing contact lenses reduces this defence, especially when the ocular environment is disturbed by chlorine, salt, germs or waterproof cosmetics.
In addition, the lens can act as a a "sponge" that retains the pathogen longer than it would remain in a non-contact lens eyeincreasing the likelihood of infection.
6. False sense of security
Many users think that if they do not open their eyes under water or if they only bathe for a short time, there is no problem. However, the slightest splash or moisture is enough to contaminate the lens.. Even showering with contact lenses in can pose a risk if water comes into contact with the eyes.
What if I wear contact lenses every day, is it just as dangerous?
This is one of the most frequent doubts we receive in the consulting room during the summer months. Many patients believe that by using daily disposable contact lensesThe safety of the bathing costumes, they are protected against the risks of bathing with them on. While it is true that daily lenses reduce some of the risk, do not completely eliminate the danger.
Daily contact lenses are designed for single use only: they are inserted in the morning and discarded at the end of the day, without the need for cases or cleaning solutions. This feature makes them more hygienic, as handling and exposure time to potential contaminants is minimised. But that does not make them safe from water.
Why are they still dangerous even if they are single-use?
- The structure of the lens remains porous
Like reusable contact lenses, daily contact lenses are made of hydrogel or silicone hydrogel materials, which allow water, oxygen... and micro-organisms to pass through..
If they get wet in the sea, swimming pool, river or even in the shower, can absorb and retain pathogens for as long as they remain in the eye. - The risk of infection remains as long as it remains in contact with the eye.
Even if discarded, a contaminated contact lens may have caused damage within minutes if it has been in contact with agents such as bacteria or protozoa. The simple act of keeping the lens in after getting wet can allow micro-organisms to colonise the cornea.
No protection against chemical or mechanical irritation
Chlorine, salt, sun products or sand can get trapped between the contact lens and the ocular surface, causing irritation, redness, tearing or microabrasions, even if it is a new lens.
When are they an acceptable option?
It is never safest to avoid wearing contact lenses in any aquatic environment..
What alternatives do I have to see well and protect my eyes in the water?
Although the best option is not to wear contact lenses when swimming, we understand that many people with moderate or high prescription need alternatives to enjoy swimming without sacrificing clear vision. Here are the options safer and recommended:
1. Prescription swimming goggles
A practical and increasingly popular solution. These goggles allow swimming, diving and water activities. with good vision and total security. There are currently two main options:
- Standard graduationGeneric dioptre glasses (e.g. -2.0, -3.5, -4.0, etc.), useful for low to medium myopes.
- Personalised graduationCustom-made glasses with your exact prescription, ideal for those with astigmatism or high myopia/hyperopia.
This type of goggles not only improves underwater vision, but also fully protect the eyes from contact with wateravoiding infections or irritations.
2. Daily disposable contact lenses + watertight swimming goggles
If for practical reasons you prefer to continue wearing contact lenses during your holiday, this is the combination for you. less riskyprovided that:
- Use single-use contact lenseswhich are discarded at the end of the aquatic activity.
- Wear watertight and well-fitting swimming gogglesto prevent the ingress of water.
- Do not open your eyes under water without goggles.
- Remove contact lenses immediately after bathing.
This combination is common among occasional users who need occasional vision and do not have prescription swimming goggles.
3. Laser refractive surgery (LASIK, PRK, SMILE)
For those who are looking for a definitive solution, the refractive surgery can eliminate the need for contact lenses or glasses. Current techniques make it possible to correct myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism with high levels of safety and precision.
Once the post-operative recovery period is over, patients can perform water activities without contact lenses or goggles, no added risk to the cornea.
ImportantIf you have recently undergone eye surgery, always consult your ophthalmologist before bathing, as the first few days or weeks are critical to avoid infection.
4. Use of polarised sunglasses for water sports (when underwater vision is not required).
For activities such as surfing, paddle surfing or sailing, where there is no diving or underwater eye-opening, polarised sports sunglasses are an excellent choice. There are models with a prescription clip-on or interchangeable lenses that combine UV protection, fastening and graduation.
What does science say about the use of contact lenses and water?
Several ophthalmological scientific societies agree on one clear recommendation: contact lenses should never be worn when swimming, showering or in hot tubs.
What to do if contact lenses get wet?
Even if you have taken precautions, it can happen that your contact lenses get wet by accident when swimming in the pool, in the sea, in the shower or even by splashing. In these cases, it is essential to act quickly and appropriately to avoid eye complications.
1. Remove them immediately
Don't wait until you feel discomfort. Contact with water can contaminate the contact lens surface with microorganisms, some potentially dangerous (such as Acanthamoeba).
Remove the lens with clean hands and dry them with paper before handling the eyes.
2. Discard the contact lens if it is disposable (daily).
If it is a contact lens for daily use, the safest thing to do is to throw it straight awayeven if it has only been slightly wet. Do not attempt to clean or reuse it later.
3. If it is reusable (monthly or fortnightly), DO NOT keep or clean it.
Even if you use cleaning solutions or disinfectant liquids, some resistant pathogens cannot be completely eliminatedas the protozoan Acanthamoeba.
It is therefore safest to discard the contact lens even if it is of prolonged use.
4. Observe your eye for the following hours
Pay attention to any abnormal eye symptoms, however mild:
- Redness
- Itching or stinging
- Eye pain
- Foreign body sensation
- Blurred vision
- Photophobia (discomfort to light)
If any of these signs appear, visit your ophthalmologist as soon as possibleYou may be developing an infection or inflammation.
5. Don't put in a new contact lens right away.
Even if you discard the previous one, it is advisable to wait a few hours or even until the next day before putting on a new one. This allows the eye to recover from possible contact with water and reduces the risk of irritation or over-infection.
You can wear your glasses as a temporary alternative until the eye is completely stable.
6. Relieve discomfort with artificial tears
If you experience dryness or mild irritation after accidental contact with water, you can apply preservative-free artificial tears to restoring the tear film and relieving symptoms.
Avoid eye drops with vasoconstrictors or over-the-counter medications.
What about children who wear contact lenses?
More and more teenagers wear contact lenses. In these cases, precautions should be even greater. If avoidance is not possible, combining daily contact lenses with well-fitting swimming goggles may be the only acceptable alternative.
What about cosmetic or coloured contact lenses?
In summer, many people opt for cosmetic contact lenses. These also present the same risks when worn in the water, especially if they have not been fitted by a professional.
Can I bathe with contact lenses in a bathtub, jacuzzi or private pool?
Although they appear to be more controlled environments, the risk is still present. No water is safe for contact lenses.
Take care of your eyes after bathing
Even if you don't wear contact lenses, chlorine or salt can dry out your eyes. It is recommended to apply preservative-free artificial tears after bathing.
Practical tips for summer contact lens wearers
Although it is best to avoid wearing contact lenses during water activities, we understand that in summer there are situations where contact lenses are still used for comfort, sport or aesthetics. So, here are some essential tips that every contact lens wearer should keep in mind during the summer:
1. Prioritise the use of spectacles whenever possible.
When you're not in the water, prescription glasses are the safest and most comfortable option. As well as avoiding the risk of infection, they will protect you from wind, dust, sand and direct sun exposure.
2. If you are going to wear contact lenses, make sure they are for daily use.
During the summer, especially in holiday or water environments, avoid monthly or reusable contact lenses altogether.
Daily disposable lenses are much safer, because:
- They are released every day.
- They are discarded after use.
- They significantly reduce the risk of infection if they become wet or contaminated.
3. Combine them with approved sunglasses.
Intense summer sun can damage the surface of your eyes. If you wear contact lenses during the day, always protect them with sunglasses with a certified UV400 filter.
This avoids:
- Eye irritation.
- Dryness due to prolonged exposure.
- Increased risk of corneal injury from ultraviolet radiation.
4. Never swim with unprotected contact lenses
Contact with water is dangerous for contact lens wearers. If you need to wear them:
- Always use daily disposable contact lenses.
- Combine them with watertight, well-fitting swimming goggles.
- Do not open your eyes underwater or dive without protection.
5. Always carry artificial tears with you
During the summer, eyes tend to dry out more due to the heat, air conditioning and dry environment. If you wear contact lenses:
- Apply preservative-free artificial tears several times a day.
- Especially after bathing, air travel or prolonged exposure to sun or wind.
6. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling your contact lenses.
Good hygiene is essential. Before putting in or taking out contact lenses:
- Wash your hands with soap and water.
- Dry them with a clean, lint-free towel.
- Avoid touching your eyes with wet or dirty hands, especially at beaches and swimming pools.
7. Prepare a visual emergency kit for your holiday.
In summer, more than ever, it's a good idea to carry a small pouch with the essentials:
- Your glasses as an alternative.
- Spare contact lenses (if you wear daily).
- Artificial tears.
- Portable mirror.
- Saline solution or cleanser (if you wear replacement contact lenses).
- Clean wipes or individual ophthalmic wipes.
8. Don't ignore eye discomfort
In summer, infections, allergies and minor eye injuries increase. If you wear contact lenses and notice:
- Itching, stinging, pain or gritty sensation.
- Red eye or constant tearing.
- Blurred vision or sensitivity to light.
Remove the contact lens immediately and see an ophthalmologist. Don't wait for it to get worse. Many complications can be prevented if you act in time.
Conclusion: enjoy the summer, but protect your eye health.
Summer increases certain eye risks, especially among contact lens wearers. With prevention and hygiene you can enjoy yourself without compromising your vision.