Contact Lens Solution Alternatives: The Untold Truth Behind Safe and Effective Options

Have you ever found yourself without contact lens solution in a crucial moment? It's late at night, the stores are closed, and you realize you're out of your essential lens solution. Panic sets in as you scramble to find an alternative. The good news is that while there is no perfect substitute for your trusted contact lens solution, there are some emergency alternatives that can help you get through the night without risking damage to your lenses or eyes. But how safe are these alternatives, and can they really replace the original? Let’s break down the dos and don’ts when it comes to alternatives, and explore which ones are safe, which ones should be used in emergencies only, and which options you should avoid at all costs.

The Ultimate Truth: Can You Really Use Water?

No! This is the number one misconception when it comes to replacing contact lens solution. Water might seem like an innocent and convenient option, but using it to store or clean contact lenses is a dangerous practice. Tap water, even if it's safe to drink, contains microorganisms like Acanthamoeba, a parasite that can cause a serious eye infection called Acanthamoeba keratitis. This infection can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated properly. Distilled water and even boiled water still pose risks because they do not contain the necessary disinfectants that specialized solutions have. So, never use water as a contact lens solution substitute.

Emergency Solutions: What Can Be Used?

If you're in a pinch and absolutely cannot access proper contact lens solution, there are a few emergency alternatives that may be used for a very short period:

1. Saline Solution: Saline solution can be found in most drugstores. It's commonly used for rinsing wounds and for nasal irrigation, and while it's not a perfect substitute, it is far safer than water. Saline does not contain the disinfecting agents present in regular contact lens solution, so it should only be used in emergency cases when you need to rinse or hydrate your lenses temporarily. Remember, saline cannot kill bacteria, so lenses stored in saline for too long could lead to infections.

2. Hydrogen Peroxide Solution: Some contact lens users may already be familiar with hydrogen peroxide-based solutions, which are designed specifically for cleaning and disinfecting lenses. These solutions work well as long as you follow the instructions carefully. Hydrogen peroxide must be neutralized before the lenses can be placed back in your eyes, so never use pure hydrogen peroxide without a special neutralizing lens case. Failing to neutralize it could result in a painful burning sensation.

3. Eye Drops: While this is not ideal, lubricating eye drops that are specifically designed for contact lens wearers can sometimes be used in an emergency to temporarily moisten your lenses. However, do not use them to store your lenses overnight, as they do not disinfect the lenses.

4. Homemade Saline Solution: If you're truly desperate, you can make a saline solution at home by mixing 1 teaspoon of non-iodized salt into 1 cup of water and boiling it. Let it cool down completely before using. This is not recommended for regular use, but it could help in a situation where nothing else is available. Make sure to discard the solution after one use.

What You Should Never Use:

There are some commonly suggested alternatives that should never be used under any circumstances, even in emergencies:

• Saliva: Your mouth contains a high amount of bacteria, making saliva an extremely unhygienic choice for storing or cleaning contact lenses. Using saliva as a substitute could result in severe infections.

• Contact Lens Case Filled with Nothing: Do not leave your lenses in an empty case. This can dry them out completely, and once lenses dry out, they may become unusable and brittle. Rehydrating dried-out lenses is not safe, as the structural integrity of the lenses may be compromised, causing discomfort or potential damage to the eye.

What About Multi-Purpose Solutions?

If you're curious whether all contact lens solutions are the same, here's a little-known fact: not all solutions are created equal. Multi-purpose solutions are widely popular because they combine cleaning, disinfecting, rinsing, and storing in one formula. However, different brands can contain varying formulations, which may impact the effectiveness and compatibility with your specific lenses.

• Opti-Free PureMoist vs. BioTrue: For instance, Opti-Free PureMoist is known for its HydraGlyde Moisture Matrix, which keeps lenses hydrated for up to 16 hours, while BioTrue mimics the pH of natural tears and is designed to keep beneficial proteins active in the eyes. Both work well, but some people may have sensitivities to specific ingredients.

When switching between brands, it’s important to consult your eye doctor to ensure the solution is compatible with your lenses and eye needs.

How to Safely Store Lenses Without Solution

If you’re truly in a bind and have no safe alternatives at hand, the best course of action may be to remove your contact lenses and store them in a clean, dry case until you can access proper solution. While this is far from ideal, it’s a better option than risking an infection by using unsanitary liquids.

Once you get your hands on contact lens solution, let your lenses soak for at least a few hours before wearing them again. Even though this method may leave your lenses dry, rehydrating them in proper solution is safer than risking bacterial infections by using questionable substitutes.

Why You Should Always Have Extra Solution on Hand

Ultimately, the best course of action is to ensure you’re never without proper contact lens solution. Keep an extra travel-sized bottle of solution in your bag, car, or workplace for emergencies. Contact lens solution isn't just for storing lenses — it cleans and disinfects them, helping prevent eye infections and discomfort. Regular contact lens solution contains powerful disinfectants that are critical for eliminating harmful microorganisms and proteins that can build up on your lenses throughout the day.

When wearing contact lenses, safety should always come first. Many eye infections caused by improper contact lens care can be prevented by using the correct lens solution, changing your lenses as recommended, and keeping your lens case clean.

Conclusion: Take Your Eye Health Seriously

Contact lenses are a convenient alternative to glasses, but they require proper care and maintenance to keep your eyes safe and healthy. In emergency situations, it’s crucial to know which substitutes can be used temporarily and which ones can cause harm. Always avoid using water, saliva, or any non-sterile liquid for cleaning or storing your lenses. Invest in a reliable, multi-purpose contact lens solution that fits your lifestyle, and keep backup supplies available. Your eyes deserve the best care, and taking shortcuts with your lens care routine isn't worth the risk.

Contact lens-related infections can have severe consequences, but with the right knowledge and precautions, they are entirely avoidable. Whenever you're in doubt, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and prioritize your eye health.