Are you someone who prefers the convenience of contact lenses but wonders if it’s okay to wear them every day? Contact lenses can be a fantastic alternative to eyeglasses, offering clear vision and a sense of freedom for those with vision problems.
But understanding how to use them safely and effectively is key.
Wearing contact lenses every day can be safe when you follow the right habits and wear the right type of lenses. Not all contacts are safe for extended or daily wear, and pushing past their limits can lead to dryness, discomfort, or even infections.
That’s why it’s so important to follow the schedule recommended by your optometrist and to check in regularly about how your eyes are doing.
What Are Contact Lenses & How Do They Work?
Contact lenses are small, thin, curved pieces of material that sit directly on the surface of your eye. They correct a range of vision issues like:
Contact lenses are available in various types and designs, from single-use daily disposables to extended-wear options.
But just because they’re versatile doesn’t mean all contacts are created equal. Choosing the right type for your lifestyle and vision needs is crucial, and your optometrist can help guide you through the options.
Types of Contact Lenses at a Glance
Here are the 3 most common types of contact lenses:
- Daily disposable lenses are single-use lenses that you wear for one day & discard
- Disposable lenses are convenient & hygienic, making them a popular choice for many
- Extended-wear lenses are designed to be worn continuously for several days or even weeks, depending on your optometrist’s recommendation
- The lenses allow improved oxygen flow to the eye, but require careful monitoring
- Rigid gas-permeable (RGP) lenses are durable & can provide sharp vision correction, but they require a longer adjustment period
- RGP lenses resist protein & bacteria buildup, but still require daily cleaning
Can You Wear Contacts Every Day?
The good news? It’s generally safe to wear contacts every day. But there’s a catch: the type of lenses you use and how you care for your lenses play a crucial role in maintaining your eye health.
For example, while daily disposable lenses are designed for single use, extended-wear lenses are built for longer wear durations.
Why You Shouldn’t Overuse Daily Disposable Lenses
Daily disposable lenses are designed to be worn once and replaced with a fresh pair the next day. Reusing them or wearing them for extended periods goes against their intended purpose and can lead to several health concerns:
- Higher risk of infection
- All contact lenses, when worn improperly, can increase your risk of infection, corneal ulcers, and neovascularization (abnormal blood vessel growth in the cornea)
- Daily disposables actually help reduce these risks when used as directed—one day, then discard
- Limited oxygen flow
- Overextended use of any contact lens can cause hypoxia (oxygen deprivation), potentially leading to swelling, redness, and vision problems
- Dry eyes & discomfort
- Contact lenses absorb moisture from your eyes, which is why fresh lenses are important for comfort
If you’re tempted to stretch the lifespan of your daily lenses for convenience or cost savings, remember that doing so undermines their primary benefit, which is reducing complications through single use. Following your prescribed wearing schedule is essential for all lens types, but especially for daily disposables which aren’t designed for cleaning or reuse.
Can You Sleep in Daily Disposable Lenses?
No, it’s not safe to sleep in daily contact lenses. These lenses aren’t designed for overnight wear and can lead to serious eye complications if left in while you sleep.
Sleeping in most contact lens types increases your risk of bacterial infections and dry eyes.
Alternatives to Daily Disposable Lenses
Not feeling satisfied with daily disposable lenses? There’s a good alternative to consider, depending on your needs and lifestyle.
Planned Replacement Contact Lenses
While some manufacturers market lenses as “extended-wear” or suitable for overnight use, at Lake Country Optometry, we strongly advise against sleeping in any type of contact lens. Even lenses labeled for extended wear can increase your risk of serious eye infections when worn overnight.
Instead, we recommend planned replacement lenses, which are available on a 2-week or monthly schedule. These lenses offer durability and value, but should always be removed and properly cleaned every night before sleeping. They require proper storage and cleaning solutions to maintain eye health and comfort.
Our practice prioritizes the safety of your eyes, which is why we primarily offer daily disposable lenses and reusable lenses that are removed nightly, rather than extended-wear options that might compromise eye health.
Ready to Try Contact Lenses?
You can enjoy contact lenses every day when you take precautions to use them safely. By understanding the type of lenses you’re using and following proper care guidelines, you can enjoy clear, comfortable vision without risking your eye health.
At Lake Country Optometry, we provide experienced, compassionate care to help you maintain healthy eyes and vision. During a contact lens fitting, we’ll measure your eyes, evaluate your tear production, and discuss your goals to find lens options that work for you.Got questions? We’re always here to help. Book an appointment with Lake Country Optometry today.
