Can You Sleep With Colored Contact Lenses On?

Everyone knows that it's not advisable to sleep with colored contact lenses on, no matter how tired or sleepy you are. It's essential to remove the lenses before sleeping and perform proper cleaning and care. However, since a nap typically lasts no longer than an hour, repeatedly taking off and putting on colored contact lenses can be inconvenient. Many people wonder if it's okay to sleep with colored contact lenses for a short period. In response, experts from EyeCoo have provided an explanation.

Even during a short nap, it is not recommended to wear colored contact lenses. Colored contact lenses, which are in close contact with the cornea, already impede corneal respiration. When your eyes are open, blinking facilitates oxygen exchange and increases tear secretion. However, once you close your eyes and stop blinking, you create a barrier to the air, which can easily lead to insufficient oxygen supply to the cornea or bacterial infections. Prolonged impairment of normal corneal metabolism can have various detrimental effects on the eyes, ranging from compensatory new blood vessel formation around the cornea to corneal edema. In severe cases, it may even result in permanent blindness. For the sake of eye health, it's crucial not to prioritize convenience. Even if there are no immediate issues, continual neglect can lead to various adverse consequences over time.

Similarly, it is not advisable to wear colored contact lenses every day. It's recommended to give your eyes a break for one or two days each week to alleviate eye discomfort. Excessive wear can compromise eye resistance, leading to blurred vision, eye fatigue, and various inflammations. The duration of wearing should not be excessively long, and if your eyes feel dry and uncomfortable, it's advisable to use eye drops as needed.

Colored contact lenses fall under Class III medical devices and must be used according to the instructions. Developing good habits is crucial when wearing colored contact lenses. If you frequently experience eye discomfort, it's essential to stop wearing them and seek prompt medical attention. EyeCoo reminds you that for long-term wear of colored contact lenses, it's best to undergo an eye examination at least every six months to a year.