Can You Shower with Contacts In?
If you are one of the millions of people who wear contact lenses, you may have wondered whether or not it is safe to shower with them in. This is an important question, as improper contact lens care can lead to infections, discomfort, and even damage to the lenses themselves. In this article, we will explore the benefits and risks of showering with contacts in and provide tips on how to properly maintain eye health while wearing contacts.
Benefits of Taking Out Your Contacts Before Showering
While it may be tempting to keep your contacts in while showering, there are many benefits to taking them out beforehand. One of the biggest benefits is that it reduces the risk of infection. When you get in the shower, you are exposing your eyes to a variety of bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause infections. Removing your contacts beforehand can help prevent these organisms from adhering to the lenses and causing problems.
Another benefit of taking out your contacts before showering is that it can prevent damage to the lenses. Contact lenses can absorb water, causing them to swell and become distorted. This can lead to discomfort, blurry vision, and even damage to the lenses themselves. By taking them out beforehand, you can avoid these problems and keep your lenses in optimal condition.
Risks Associated with Showering with Contacts In
While the benefits of removing your contacts before showering are clear, there are also risks associated with keeping them in. When you wear contacts in the shower, you are exposing them to a variety of potential hazards. For example, many shower products contain harmful chemicals that can damage the lenses and irritate the eyes. Additionally, bacteria and other organisms can adhere to them and cause infections.
In some cases, showering with contacts in can also cause discomfort and irritation. The eyes may become red and swollen, and vision may become blurry. This is often due to the lenses absorbing water and becoming distorted.
The Effect of Shower Water on Contact Lenses
Shower water can have a variety of effects on contact lenses, depending on the source of the water. Tap water, for example, can contain minerals and other substances that can adhere to the lenses and cause build-up. This can lead to discomfort and even damage to the lenses themselves. Well water may contain bacteria and other microorganisms that can cause infections.
Shower water can also cause the lenses to become distorted and uncomfortable to wear. This is because the lenses can absorb water and swell, making them ill-fitting and blurry.
How to Properly Clean and Protect Your Contacts Before Showering
One of the best ways to protect your contacts before showering is to remove them beforehand. However, if you do choose to keep them in, there are steps you can take to minimize the risk of infection and other problems. The most important step is to clean and disinfect the lenses before and after showering. This can help remove any bacteria or other microorganisms that may have adhered to them.
It is also important to make sure that you do not get any shower products or water on the lenses while showering. This can be achieved by keeping your eyes closed while shampooing or washing your face, or by wearing goggles to protect your eyes from exposure.
Best Practices for Maintaining Your Eye Health while Wearing Contacts
Proper contact lens care is essential for maintaining eye health while wearing contacts. This includes regular visits to the eye doctor, following proper hygiene practices, and properly cleaning and storing the lenses. It is also important to avoid touching the lenses with dirty hands or exposing them to water or other harmful substances.
How to Deal with Accidental Exposure to Water While Wearing Contacts
If you accidentally expose your contacts to water while wearing them, it is important to take immediate action. Remove the lenses right away and disinfect them to prevent infection. If you experience any discomfort or redness, see a doctor right away to make sure that you have not developed an infection or other serious problem.
Can Showering with Contacts In Damage Your Eyes?
While there are risks associated with showering with contacts in, it is unlikely that shower water itself will cause damage to the eyes. However, wearing contacts in the shower can increase the risk of infection and discomfort. To protect your eye health, it is best to remove your contacts before getting in the shower, or to take steps to protect them from exposure to water and other harmful substances.
Conclusion
In conclusion, proper contact lens care is essential for maintaining eye health while wearing contacts. While it may be tempting to keep your lenses in while showering, it is generally best to remove them beforehand. If you do choose to keep them in, be sure to follow proper hygiene practices and take steps to protect them from exposure to harmful substances. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your contacts remain in good condition and that your eyes stay healthy.
