We all know someone who swears by some wild contact lens lies and myth. But let's be real, are those rumours actually legit? Spoiler alert: probs not. From sleeping in your lenses (major NOPE) to thinking you can just rinse them with tap water (double NOPE), there's a lot of misinformation floating around. We're here to spill the tea on the biggest contact lens myths so you can keep your eyes sparkling and healthy. Let’s dive in!

Myth 1: Sleeping in Your Contacts is Fine, Especially for a Quick Nap.

Sleeping in contact lenses, even for a short nap, dramatically increases your risk of eye infections. It's a BIG NO!
WHY: When you sleep, your eyes receive less oxygen. Contact lenses act as a barrier, further reducing oxygen flow. This creates a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to corneal ulcers and other nasty infections. Extended wear lenses are designed to be worn for longer periods, but they are not designed to be worn all the time. Your eyes need oxygen to stay healthy.

Myth 2: You Can Use Tap Water to Clean Your Contacts.

NO! It's illegal! Tap water contains microorganisms that can cause serious eye infections.
WHY: Tap water, even filtered tap water, is not sterile. It can harbor bacteria, amoebas (like Acanthamoeba), and other pathogens that can cause severe eye infections, including Acanthamoeba keratitis, which can lead to blindness. Always use a sterile, multi-purpose contact lens solution.

Myth 3: You Don’t Need to Rub Your Lenses When Cleaning Them.

Rubbing your lenses is essential for removing debris and bacteria.
WHY: Rinsing alone won’t remove all the buildup on your lenses. Rubbing them gently with your fingers (after washing your hands thoroughly, of course!) helps to dislodge deposits and bacteria. Then, rinse them with fresh solution. This is a vital step in keeping your lenses clean and safe.

Myth 4: You Can Wear Your Contacts for Longer Than Prescribed.

NO! Wearing contacts past their recommended wear time increases the risk of eye irritation and infections.
WHY: Contact lenses are designed for specific wear schedules. Wearing them longer can lead to protein and lipid buildup, dryness, and reduced oxygen permeability. This not only makes your eyes uncomfortable but also significantly raises the risk of infection. Stick to the prescribed wear time, whether it's daily, bi-weekly, or monthly.

Myth 5: You Can Share Contact Lenses with Friends.

BIG NO-NO! Sharing contacts is a surefire way to spread eye infections.
WHY: Sharing contact lenses is a big no-no. It can transmit bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens from one person to another. Each person's eyes have a unique microbial flora. Sharing lenses can introduce foreign microorganisms that your eyes are not equipped to handle, leading to infections.

Myth 6: If Your Eyes Aren’t Red, They’re Fine.

Eye redness is just one symptom of potential problems; other issues can be present without redness.
WHY: Just because your eyes aren’t red doesn’t mean they’re healthy. Other signs of irritation or infection include discomfort, blurred vision, excessive tearing, light sensitivity, and a gritty sensation. If you experience any of these symptoms, remove your lenses and consult your eye doctor.

Myth 7: All Contact Lens Solutions Are the Same.

Different solutions serve different purposes and have varying levels of effectiveness.
WHY: Not all contact lens solutions are created equal. Some are designed for specific lens types, while others offer different levels of cleaning and disinfection. Using the wrong solution can lead to irritation, discomfort, and even damage to your lenses. Always use a solution recommended by your eye doctor or the lens manufacturer.

Keeping your eyes healthy while wearing contacts is all about being informed and taking proper care. Don’t fall for these common myths. Always prioritize hygiene, follow your eye doctor’s instructions, and listen to your body. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to your eye care professional. Your peepers will thank you! Remember to keep your contact lens case clean as well, and replace it regularly! Stay safe, and keep those eyes sparkling!