There are so many myths about contact lenses that make people wary of trying them. Let’s break down the most common misconceptions and what eye specialists actually say.
Top Myths About Contact Lenses—Busted by Eye Specialists
Myth 1: “A contact lens can get stuck behind your eye.”
False.
The conjunctiva is a thin membrane that protects your eye and is attached to the inside of your eyelids; hence, a lens can never go behind your eye.
Sometimes a lens might slide underneath your eyelid, but it can always be moved back or removed safely.
Myth 2: “Contact lenses dry out or harm your eyes.”
Partly true, but preventable.
Dryness may occur, particularly in air-conditioned or windy conditions; however, modern lenses are designed to be comfortable.
Use eye drops approved for contact lenses.
Clean and keep lenses hydrated.
Ask your optometrist about silicone hydrogel lenses. They let more oxygen pass through.
With proper care and fitting, contacts do not damage healthy eyes.
Myth 3: “Sleeping in contact lenses is perfectly safe.”
Usually false.
Unless prescribed for overnight or extended wear, sleeping in your lenses increases the risk of:
Oxygen deprivation
Eye infections
Corneal edema
Even “sleep-approved” lenses are generally recommended to be removed each night by most specialists to maintain proper eye health.
Myth 4: “You don’t need to clean contacts that often.”
False.
The leading causes of infections and irritations of the eye are due to improper cleaning.
Follow the “rub and rinse” rule:
Clean lenses daily with fresh disinfecting solution
Never reuse or “top off” used solution
Replace your lens case every 3 months
The eye doctors say, “Treat your lenses like a toothbrush–you wouldn’t reuse a dirty one!”
Myth 5: “Wearing contacts causes eye infections.”
False-Infections are caused by poor hygiene.
Infections are uncommon if the lenses are used correctly. Complications can result from:
Sleeping in non-overnight lenses
Cleaning lenses with water or saliva
Wearing lenses beyond their expiration date
Stick to your replacement schedule, and you’re safe.
Myth 6: “Contacts are uncomfortable.
Not anymore!
Lenses used to be thick or scratchy, but contact lenses today are ultra-thin, breathable, and moisture-rich.
After a few days of adjustment, most people forget they are even on.
Myth 7: “Contacts are too expensive.”
False.
The prices vary, but some daily disposable lenses can cost as little as per day.
Plus, no frames or repairs are needed – and many vision insurance plans partially cover contacts.
Myth 8: “Colored contacts are only for looks—they’re unsafe.”
A: False, if prescribed.
Colored or decorative lenses that are purchased through an eye care professional are perfectly safe.
The danger is from unregulated “cosmetic” lenses that are sold online or at costume shops. Those can cause serious eye infections.
Myth 9: “I’m too old/young to wear contacts.”
False.
Contacts can be worn safely by children as young as 8–10 years old and also by adults well into their 60s or 70s, provided they are able to handle and clean them properly.
There are even multifocal contacts for presbyopia.
Myth 10: “I can use water or saliva if I run out of lens solution.”
Big lie!
Tap water and saliva contain bacteria and microbes that can lead to such serious infections as Acanthamoeba keratitis, a painful and sight-threatening condition.
Always use sterile contact lens solution, never water.