ADDED TO CARTBest contact lens solutions of 2022
Aside from deciding what type of contact lenses are best for your eyes, one of the most difficult decisions for contact lens-wearers is choosing the best type of contact solution. Everyone’s eyes are unique and require different care practices, thus, there is no one best contact solution brand. When you ask your eye doctor about what solution is best for you, it's good to know the benefits and shortcomings of the different kinds of contact lens solutions on the market.
Does it matter what contact lens solution you use?
Essentially, there are two types of disinfecting solutions: Multipurpose and Hydrogen peroxide based. Both work to disinfect and clean contact lenses but differ in the number of steps required.
What is the best contact solution to use?
“The main difference between multipurpose and Hydrogen peroxide-based contact solution is the fact that multipurpose solution cleans and disinfects while Hydrogen-peroxide based solution only disinfects,” explains Dr. Wende, Medical Director for ContactsDirect. “An extra step is required when using a hydrogen peroxide-based solution, in order to remove all traces of hydrogen-peroxide from the lenses.”
Best contact lens solution for low budget
Multipurpose contact solution boasts a “no-rub” routine, meaning the solution will clean and disinfect your contacts without any rubbing. Although it may be true, most eye doctors recommend rubbing to get the lenses properly cleaned. Multipurpose contact solution is relatively inexpensive and is a quick and simple way to clean and disinfect contact lenses. The ease of use and low cost make this solution a go-to for those with contacts.
Best contact solution for dry eyes
Hydrogen peroxide-based contact solution requires a little more time and care. For those looking for a quick and simple way to clean contact lenses properly, this might not be the right solution for you. To use, the contact lenses must be cleaned with a cleaning solution, then disinfected with Hydrogen peroxide. As Hydrogen-peroxide can be harmful to the eyes, the solution must be cleansed after disinfection with a saline solution. A saline solution should never be used on its own, as it has no disinfecting abilities, but is necessary for neutralizing the Hydrogen peroxide. “If the saline solution is forgotten and the Hydrogen-peroxide makes contact with your eyes,” Dr. Wende explains, “irritation, and possibly eye damage, could be likely.”
Neglecting to rinse contacts with the saline solution could expose the eyes to potentially dangerous levels of Hydrogen peroxide. On the flip side, depending on the levels of Hydrogen peroxide, the contacts may not be completely disinfected.
While not for everyone, this solution is perhaps the best contact solution for sensitive or dry eyes, especially if any of the ingredients in multipurpose solutions irritate you.
Best contact solution for travel
If you wear contact lenses, you know that traveling with contact solutions can be a hassle. The TSA defines contact solution as a medical liquid, so you can bring more than 3 ounces on board. You also don't need to put your solutions in a baggie; just declare them at the checkpoint. To keep your luggage light, you might consider taking a multipurpose solution with you when you travel that cleans and disinfects.
What to look in a contact lens solution
All in all, there is no one best contact solution. Consult your eye doctor before selecting a contact solution to find one right for you. Your doctor can help you make an informed decision based on your individual needs.
