Can I Wear Contact Lenses in the Pool, Hot Tub, or Lake?
01-07-2025
Contact Lenses Should Not Be Worn in Water
A big reason individuals choose to wear contact lenses is the freedom they offer. However, there are environments where contact lenses should not be worn - one of those is in the water. It is generally recommended to never wear contact lenses while swimming in a pool or any other body of water (i.e., pool, lake, bath tub, shower, etc.). Water can contain bacteria and other microorganisms that can get trapped between the lens and your eye, potentially leading to severe infections which can result in significant vision impairment or loss.Reasons Not To Wear Contact Lenses in the Water
The 3 main reasons individuals are strongly advised not to wear contact lenses in the water include:1. Risk of Eye Infections
Water — whether from pools, lakes, or hot tubs — can contain harmful microorganisms, especially Acanthamoeba, which can cause a severe, painful eye infection called Acanthamoeba keratitis.2. Contact Lens Contamination
Water can introduce bacteria and pathogens onto the lens surface, leading to irritation or serious complications.3. Lenses Can Dislodge
Swimming and/or the turbulence in hot tubs can cause contact lenses to move or wash out of your eyes, especially soft lenses.Safer Alternatives
Prescription Swim Goggles
Wear prescription swimming goggles to see clearly and protect your eyes. If you regularly swim or enjoy water sports, then prescription swim goggles often prove to be a wise investment.Daily Disposable Contacts
If you feel you must wear lenses, daily disposables (combined with watertight swim goggles) are the least risky option — but still not ideal. They should be removed and replaced with new lenses immediately following your aquatic activities. Take your lenses out before swimming and use goggles instead.Experiencing Ocular Pain or an Eye Infection?
Seen an Optometrist Immediately
Wearing contact lenses should be a pain-free experience. If you experience ocular pain or develop an eye infection following time in the pool, lake, or hot tub with your contact lenses in, please see one of our optometrists in Edmonton immediately. Schedule An AppointmentFYEyes Blog Posts
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