Rubbing your eyes is a natural reaction to irritation, dry eyes or tiredness. But if you’re wearing contact lenses, this common habit can cause more harm than relief. In this guide, we’ll explore why eye rubbing while wearing contact lenses can be risky, and suggest safer, more effective ways to soothe discomfort.
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Can you rub your eyes with contacts in?
Why you shouldn’t rub your eyes with contact lenses
Rubbing your eyes might offer temporary comfort, but when you’re wearing lenses, it increases the risk of eye infections, damage and long-term eye conditions.
Here’s why it’s best avoided:
- Risk of eye infections: Even clean-looking hands can transfer bacteria or allergens into the eye. Dirty hands especially increase the risk of conjunctivitis, keratitis (a serious corneal infection), or other complications.
- Lens movement or damage: Contact lenses may shift, fold or tear when rubbed, leading to blurry vision and irritation.
- Corneal injury: Pressure from rubbing can scratch the cornea, causing micro-abrasions that affect your eye health.
- Long-term risks: Habitual eye rubbing is linked to keratoconus, a progressive condition where the cornea thins and bulges, distorting your vision correction. It can even contribute to permanent vision loss in severe cases.
If you've ever accidentally rubbed eyes with contacts in, you’re not alone. But it's a habit that can be changed.
Safe alternatives to rubbing
Instead of rubbing, try these safer options to relieve dryness or discomfort:
- Eye drops: Use lubricating artificial tears or eye drops compatible with your lenses. These provide instant relief from irritated eyes and dry eye symptoms.
- Cold compresses: Apply a clean, cool compress to closed eyelids to reduce swelling or itchy eyes.
Blinking exercises: Frequent, conscious blinking helps hydrate the eyes and combat digital eye strain, especially from blue light exposure.
Tip: Always keep a bottle of contact lens solution handy for rinsing or rewetting your lenses safely, and never clean and store your contact lenses in water.
When to remove your lenses
Knowing when to take a break from your lenses is key to good lens care. Remove your contact lenses immediately if you notice:
- Redness or irritation
- Dryness, burning or stinging
- Blurry or distorted vision
Switching to glasses gives your eyes time to recover. If symptoms persist, it’s best to book an appointment with an eye doctor or eye care professional.
The long-term effects of eye rubbing
Repeated rubbing, whether or not you’re wearing contact lenses, can cause:
- Keratoconus: A serious corneal condition that warps the eyeball’s shape, making clear vision difficult to maintain.
- Lens warping: Soft contact lenses can become misshapen with frequent pressure, leading to poor fit and discomfort.
- Vision loss: Chronic rubbing combined with poor hygiene or incorrect lens use can increase the risk of lasting eye damage.
Lens type matters
Some contact lens wearers are more at risk depending on what type they use:
- Daily lenses: Thinner and more prone to tearing during eye rubbing.
- Monthly lenses: More durable, but at greater risk of build-up from allergens or protein deposits.
- Hard lenses: Rigid lenses are less forgiving and more likely to cause discomfort if dislodged.
And don’t forget: always store monthly contact lenses in a contact lens case with fresh solution. Clean your lens case regularly and avoid contaminating contacts in hot tubs, tap water, and avoid swimming with contacts.
Protect your eyes. Build better habits.
If your eyes itch or feel irritated, pause and hydrate rather than rub. Drink more water, use compatible eye drops and take screen breaks. If you’re out enjoying the sun, make sure you protect your eyes with sunglasses, and avoid applying sunscreen too close to the eyes to prevent stinging. And if you’re still tempted to rub, keep a lens diary. Track discomfort, causes and solutions. It’s a great way to learn what works for your eyes.
Keep your eyes happy for the long run
So, can you rub your eyes with contacts in? Technically, yes. But should you? Definitely not. The risk of infection, corneal damage and long-term effects like keratoconus or vision loss make it too risky. Next time you’re tempted, try one of the safer methods above. Your eyes and your vision will thank you.
Want to ensure comfort and hygiene? Order contact lenses online from Vision Direct and keep your lens care routine stress-free.