Updated – December 6th, 2024
Winter can be tough on your eyes, especially if you wear contact lenses.
The cold, dry air can leave your eyes feeling uncomfortable, and you might be wondering if your lenses can handle the chill.
Whether you’re worried about dryness, discomfort, or keeping your lenses in top shape during the colder months, we’ve got you covered.
In this guide, we’ll share the top tips and best practices to help you stay comfortable and protect your eyes all winter long.
Can I wear contact lenses in extreme cold?
The short answer is yes, you can most certainly wear contact lenses in extreme cold.
But—and it’s a big but—winter weather can dry out your eyes. More specifically, cold air can reduce the moisture in your contact lenses, causing them to feel a bit dry and irritating. Freezing temperatures can also affect the shape and comfort of your contacts.
So, while you can wear contacts in cold weather, it’d be better to remove them if you’re heading outside for long periods.
Using lubricating eye drops and keeping your lenses clean can also help prevent dryness and discomfort during the winter months.
Tips for wearing contacts in winter
So, you can wear contacts in extreme cold. But can you wear contacts in winter? The answer is yes! That said, you may want to follow these tips to ensure a comfortable lens-wearing experience:
Use lubricating drops
Dry winter air can make your lenses feel uncomfortable. Keep a bottle of preservative-free lubricating drops handy to rehydrate your lenses throughout the day.
Choose the right contact lenses
If you’re experiencing dryness, consider switching to lenses designed for moisture retention, like silicone hydrogel lenses. These help keep your eyes hydrated longer.
Wear glasses in extreme cold
If you’re outside in freezing temperatures for extended periods, consider wearing glasses instead of contacts to avoid dryness and discomfort.
Avoid direct heat
Don’t let your lenses come in contact with hot air from heaters or vents, as it can dry them out quickly.
Keep your hands clean
Winter weather often means more colds and germs. Make sure to wash your hands before handling your lenses to avoid irritation or infection.
Can contact lenses freeze?
Yes and no. Contacts won’t freeze on your eyes (they are kept warm by the temperature of your eyes), but they might if you leave them on a windowsill or in a cold car.
When contact lenses get too cold, they can become stiff or warped and uncomfortable to wear. To avoid this, always store your contact lenses in their case at room temperature. Never leave them in places where they could freeze.
If your lenses feel off after being exposed to the cold, though, it’s best to toss them and start fresh with a new pair.
Tips for winter eye health
Dry winter air can generally do a number on your eyes, not just your contact lenses. The good news is there’s plenty of things you can do to keep your eyes in top shape during the winter months.
Use sun protection
The winter sun can still damage your eyes, especially when it’s reflected off snow.
Some contact lenses have UV protection, but it’s better to wear sunglasses to fully shield your eyes from harmful rays, even on cloudy days.
Take screen breaks
Winter means more time indoors, often staring at screens. To prevent eye strain and dryness, follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
Be careful with makeup
With holiday festivities and events, you might be wearing more makeup than usual. But in the dry winter air, makeup can irritate your eyes, leading to discomfort or even infection.
Make sure to remove all makeup thoroughly before bed to avoid buildup, and be careful about sharing eye makeup with others to reduce the risk of transferring germs.
Treat winter eye allergies
Winter allergens like dust and indoor heating can trigger allergies, causing itchy, red eyes. Use allergy eye drops or consult your doctor for recommendations to manage symptoms.
See an eye doctor regularly
If you’re experiencing discomfort, dryness, or blurry vision, it’s a good idea to check in with your eye doctor. Regular eye exams ensure your lenses fit well and help catch any underlying issues early.So, you can wear contacts in extreme cold. But can you wear contacts in winter? The answer is yes! That said, you may want to follow these tips to ensure a comfortable lens-wearing experience:
How to keep contacts moist in winter
The easiest way to keep contacts moist and comfortable in winter is to use rewetting drops.
Just be sure to choose rewetting drops exactly, as they are designed specifically for contact lenses. They are not the same as regular eye drops, which may not be safe or suitable for contact lenses.
Lubricating drops are another option if you’re feeling extra dryness.
If you’re unsure which drops to use, or if dryness persists, consult with your eye care professional for advice on the best solution for your eyes and contact lenses.
Enjoy the Winter Season With Contact Lenses From 1-800-GET-LENS
Winter doesn’t have to mean sacrificing comfort or convenience when it comes to wearing contact lenses. With a few simple steps—like using rewetting drops, choosing the right lenses, and protecting your eyes from the cold—you can enjoy clear, comfortable vision all season long.
Shop 1-800-GET-LENS for all your contact lens needs and find the perfect pair to keep your eyes happy through the winter season.
