Best Eye Drops for Dry Eyes with Contact Lenses

As someone who’s worn contact lenses for years, I know the struggle of dry, irritated eyes all too well. It’s that constant gritty feeling, the urge to blink excessively, and sometimes, the sheer discomfort that makes you want to rip your lenses out mid-day. Finding the best eye drops for dry eyes with contact lenses isn’t just about temporary relief; it’s about maintaining comfort, health, and clear vision throughout your busy day. I’ve spent countless hours researching, trying different brands, and speaking with eye care professionals to understand what truly works. In this comprehensive guide, I’m sharing my insights on five top-rated eye drops specifically designed to bring relief to contact lens wearers. We’ll dive into what makes each one stand out, their pros and cons, and help you find the perfect match for your dry eye needs.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Refresh Contacts, Eye Drops For Dry Eyes, Contact Lens…	View on Amazon
	BLINK Contacts Lubricating Eye Drops for Soft & RGP…	View on Amazon
	Biotrue Hydration Boost Rehydrating Contact Lens Eye Drops…	View on Amazon
	Refresh Relieva for Contacts Lubricant Eye Drops For Dry…	View on Amazon
	Biotrue Hydration Boost, Preservative-Free Eye Drops for…	View on Amazon

Product Reviews

Refresh Contacts, Eye Drops For Dry Eyes, Contact Lens…

When your eyes feel a little parched from contact lens wear, Refresh Contacts can be a real lifesaver. This original strength formula is designed to offer instant moisture and lubrication, making it a fantastic option for those experiencing mild dryness. What’s particularly convenient about these drops is that you don’t need to remove your contacts before applying them, which is a huge time-saver when you’re on the go. They’re also versatile, suitable for both soft and rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, and can even be used to cushion lenses before insertion. Given that it’s from a brand doctor recommended for over 30 years, there’s a strong sense of reliability with Refresh Contacts.

• Key features:
  • Original strength formula
  • Relieves mild symptoms of eye dryness due to contact lens wear
  • Instantly moisturizes and lubricates
  • May be kept in contacts upon application
  • Suitable for soft and rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses
  • Doctor recommended with over 30 years of experience (REFRESH Family of Products, Ipsos Healthcare, 2021 REFRESH ECP Recommendation Survey)
• Pros:
  • Can be used with contacts in, offering immediate relief.
  • Provides instant lubrication.
  • Trusted, doctor-recommended brand.
  • Versatile for various contact lens types.
• Cons:
  • May not be strong enough for moderate to severe dry eye symptoms.
  • Contains preservatives, which some highly sensitive eyes might react to.
• Best for: Mild, occasional dry eye symptoms while wearing contacts, and for those who need quick relief without removing lenses.

User feedback summary: Many users appreciate the immediate comfort and the convenience of not having to remove their lenses. It’s often praised as a reliable, everyday solution for light dryness.

BLINK Contacts Lubricating Eye Drops for Soft & RGP…

BLINK Contacts Lubricating Eye Drops are all about providing long-lasting comfort and a hydration boost to your dry contact lenses. What sets these drops apart is their unique hyaluronate formulation, which acts as a powerful hydration booster. It works with your eyes’ natural tears to keep your lenses feeling fresh and comfortable, often lasting right through to the end of your day. The inclusion of beneficial electrolytes, similar to those found in natural tears, further enhances this feeling of natural comfort. Whether you use soft or RGP lenses, these drops are formulated to rewet and moisturize effectively, helping reduce the discomfort that often leads to early lens removal.

• Key features:
  • Moisturizes dry contact lenses for long-lasting comfort.
  • Unique hyaluronate formula works as a hydration booster.
  • Formulated with beneficial electrolytes similar to natural tears.
  • Rewets and moisturizes lenses before insertion and during wear.
  • Reduces the feeling of contact lens dryness to help maintain comfort all day.
  • Trusted brand with a range of eye care products.
• Pros:
  • Hyaluronate provides excellent hydration and long-lasting comfort.
  • Works with your eye’s natural tears for a more natural feel.
  • Helps maintain comfort right through to the end of the day.
  • Suitable for both soft and RGP lenses.
• Cons:
  • Contains OcuPure preservative, which might be a concern for very sensitive eyes (though it dissipates on contact).
  • Some users might prefer a completely preservative-free option.
• Best for: Contact lens wearers seeking all-day hydration and end-of-day comfort, especially those experiencing dryness that makes them want to remove lenses early.

User feedback summary: Users frequently comment on the “slippery” and refreshing feeling these drops provide, noting how effectively they keep contacts comfortable for extended periods. The hyaluronate is a big draw for many.

Biotrue Hydration Boost Rehydrating Contact Lens Eye Drops…

For those who prioritize natural-inspired ingredients and preservative-free formulas, Biotrue Hydration Boost Rehydrating Contact Lens Eye Drops are a standout choice. These drops are specifically designed for contact lens wearers, featuring HA (Hyaluronan), an antioxidant, and an electrolyte. This powerful combination not only delivers up to 8 hours of lasting moisture but also helps prevent deposit buildup on your lenses. A key differentiator is that these are the first preservative-free multi-dose contact lens drops, which is a huge benefit for sensitive eyes. They are also pH balanced for comfort, making them feel incredibly gentle when applied. From Bausch + Lomb, a trusted name in eye care, these drops offer advanced hydration for contact lens users.

• Key features:
  • Enhanced with HA (Hyaluronan), Antioxidant, and Electrolyte.
  • Provides up to 8 hours of moisture (based on laboratory study).
  • Helps prevent deposit buildup on contact lenses.
  • First preservative-free multi-dose contact lens drops.
  • pH balanced for comfort.
  • From a trusted brand, Bausch + Lomb.
• Pros:
  • Preservative-free, ideal for sensitive eyes and frequent use.
  • Long-lasting moisture (up to 8 hours).
  • Helps prevent lens deposit buildup.
  • pH balanced for natural comfort.
  • Specifically formulated for contact lenses.
• Cons:
  • The multi-dose bottle requires careful handling to maintain sterility.
  • May be a slightly higher price point due to its advanced, preservative-free formulation.
• Best for: Contact lens wearers with sensitive eyes, those who want long-lasting, preservative-free hydration, and individuals concerned about deposit buildup.

User feedback summary: Many users rave about the comfort and lack of irritation, especially those sensitive to preservatives. The multi-dose bottle is appreciated for convenience, and the lasting hydration gets high marks.

Refresh Relieva for Contacts Lubricant Eye Drops For Dry…

Refresh Relieva for Contacts brings an innovative formula to the table, specially tailored for contact lens wearers dealing with mild to moderate symptoms of eye dryness. Its standout feature is Hydrocell technology, which is designed to enable hydration and actively maintain the volume of cells on your eye’s surface. This means you’re not just getting temporary moisture; you’re getting a more sustained, supportive kind of relief. Like its Refresh Contacts counterpart, you can keep your contacts in upon application, making it incredibly convenient. It’s also effective for lubricating and rewetting both soft and rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses, and can even cushion lenses before you put them in.

• Key features:
  • Innovative formula specifically designed for contact lens wearers.
  • Relieves mild to moderate symptoms of eye dryness, irritation, and discomfort.
  • Hydrocell technology enables hydration and maintains cell volume on the eye’s surface.
  • Can be used with contacts in upon application.
  • May also be used to lubricate and rewet soft and rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses and to cushion lenses prior to application.
• Pros:
  • Hydrocell technology offers advanced, sustained hydration.
  • Effective for mild to moderate dryness.
  • Convenient for use with contacts in.
  • Versatile for different lens types.
• Cons:
  • Contains preservatives, which might be a concern for some highly sensitive users.
  • May not be sufficient for severe chronic dry eye.
• Best for: Contact lens wearers seeking advanced hydration technology for mild to moderate dryness, who value the convenience of not removing lenses.

User feedback summary: Users often report a distinct feeling of comfort and reduced irritation compared to standard drops, crediting the Relieva formula for more effective relief that lasts.

Biotrue Hydration Boost, Preservative-Free Eye Drops for…

While not exclusively marketed for contact lenses in its primary description, the Biotrue Hydration Boost Preservative-Free Eye Drops offer a compelling option for contact lens wearers due to their gentle, advanced formula. Like its contact-specific sibling, these drops are enhanced with HA (Hyaluronan), an antioxidant, and an electrolyte, providing instant moisture for dry, irritated eyes. They’re particularly great for dryness caused by screen use and environmental stressors – common culprits for contact lens wearers! The fact that it comes in a special preservative-free, multi-dose bottle is a huge advantage, making it highly suitable for sensitive eyes that often accompany contact lens use. These drops are also pH balanced for comfort, ensuring a soothing experience.

• Key features:
  • Enhanced with HA (Hyaluronan), Antioxidant, and Electrolyte.
  • Provides instant moisture for dry, irritated eyes due to screen and environmental stressors.
  • Special preservative-free, multi-dose bottle.
  • pH balanced for comfort.
  • From a trusted eye care brand, Bausch + Lomb.
• Pros:
  • Completely preservative-free, excellent for sensitive eyes.
  • Natural-inspired ingredients provide soothing relief.
  • Instant moisture, good for quick relief.
  • pH balanced for comfortable application.
  • Multi-dose bottle is convenient and less wasteful than single-use vials.
• Cons:
  • Not explicitly formulated only for contact lenses, though its preservative-free nature makes it highly compatible.
  • Might not offer the specialized lens-coating benefits of drops formulated specifically for contacts.
• Best for: Contact lens wearers with sensitive eyes seeking a high-quality, preservative-free drop for general dry eye relief, especially from screen fatigue or environmental factors. Always consult your eye doctor for personalized advice when using general drops with contacts.

User feedback summary: Users with sensitive eyes frequently highlight these drops as a go-to for their gentle, non-irritating formula. The immediate relief and preservative-free nature are consistently praised.

Helpful Comparison Insights

When choosing the best eye drops for dry eyes with contact lenses, it really comes down to what your specific needs are. If convenience and instant relief are your top priorities, the Refresh Contacts and Refresh Relieva for Contacts both allow you to keep your lenses in. However, the Refresh Relieva takes it a step further with its Hydrocell technology, offering a potentially more sustained relief for mild to moderate dryness compared to the original strength of Refresh Contacts.

For those battling end-of-day dryness and seeking long-lasting hydration, BLINK Contacts Lubricating Eye Drops shine with their hyaluronate formula, designed to work with your natural tears and keep lenses feeling fresh for hours. It’s a great choice if you find yourself wanting to remove your lenses early due to discomfort.

If sensitive eyes are your primary concern, or you’re looking for a solution to prevent deposit buildup, the Biotrue Hydration Boost Rehydrating Contact Lens Eye Drops are a fantastic, preservative-free option specifically tailored for contact lens wearers. The fact that it’s a multi-dose preservative-free bottle is quite unique and very convenient.

Finally, the Biotrue Hydration Boost Preservative-Free Eye Drops (the general dry eye version) is another excellent choice for sensitive eyes due to its preservative-free nature and natural-inspired ingredients. While not explicitly labeled “for contacts” like its sibling, its gentle, pH-balanced, and preservative-free formula makes it highly suitable for contact lens wearers. It’s particularly great for addressing screen-induced dryness. Always remember, preservative-free options are generally recommended for contact lens wearers to minimize irritation.

Consider the severity of your dryness: Refresh Contacts is best for mild cases, while Refresh Relieva for Contacts and BLINK Contacts step up for mild to moderate. For prolonged, soothing relief, especially if you need preservative-free, the Biotrue options are very strong contenders.

Final Verdict

Deciding on the best eye drops for dry eyes with contact lenses really depends on your unique situation.

• For ultimate convenience and instant, on-the-go relief, especially for mild dryness, I’d lean towards Refresh Contacts. It’s simple, effective, and you don’t even need to take your lenses out.
• If you struggle with dryness that makes you want to remove your lenses by the afternoon or evening, BLINK Contacts Lubricating Eye Drops are likely your best bet. Their hyaluronate formula is designed for that all-day hydration and end-of-day comfort.
• For highly sensitive eyes or those seeking an advanced, preservative-free solution that’s truly designed for contact lenses and offers long-lasting moisture, the Biotrue Hydration Boost Rehydrating Contact Lens Eye Drops stand out. The multi-dose preservative-free feature is a huge plus.
• When you need a step up in technology for mild to moderate dryness while still wanting to keep your contacts in, Refresh Relieva for Contacts with its Hydrocell technology offers a more sustained approach to hydration.
• If you’re looking for a great all-around, preservative-free drop for general dry eye that works well with contacts, especially from screen time, the Biotrue Hydration Boost Preservative-Free Eye Drops are an excellent choice due to their gentle, natural-inspired formula.

Ultimately, listen to your eyes. If one drop isn’t quite cutting it, don’t hesitate to try another or consult with your eye care professional. Your comfort is worth it!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use any dry eye drops with contact lenses?
No, absolutely not. Many standard dry eye drops contain preservatives or ingredients that can interact negatively with your contact lenses, causing irritation, damage, or even vision problems. Always look for drops specifically labeled “for contact lenses” or “rewetting drops for contact lenses,” or those that are explicitly preservative-free and safe for use with contacts. This is crucial for finding the best eye drops for dry eyes with contact lenses.

Q2: What’s the benefit of “preservative-free” eye drops for contact lens wearers?
Preservatives in eye drops can sometimes build up on contact lenses, leading to increased irritation, discomfort, and potentially allergic reactions for sensitive eyes. Preservative-free formulas eliminate this risk, making them generally safer and more comfortable for frequent use with contact lenses. They are often recommended as the best eye drops for dry eyes with contact lenses for sensitive individuals.

Q3: How often should I use eye drops with my contact lenses?
The frequency depends on your individual needs and the severity of your dry eyes. Some people might need them only once or twice a day, while others might use them every few hours. Always follow the specific instructions on the eye drop packaging or, even better, consult your eye care professional for personalized advice. Overuse of some drops might also have side effects.

Q4: Can I use rewetting drops to clean my contact lenses?
No, rewetting drops are designed to lubricate and moisturize your eyes and lenses, not to clean or disinfect them. Always use a proper contact lens cleaning solution for cleaning and storing your lenses to ensure they remain sterile and safe for wear. Using the best eye drops for dry eyes with contact lenses is for comfort, not for maintenance.

Q5: My eyes are still dry even after using eye drops. What should I do?
If your dry eye symptoms persist despite using recommended eye drops, it’s essential to consult your eye care professional. They can diagnose underlying issues, such as allergies, meibomian gland dysfunction, or an ill-fitting lens, and recommend a stronger treatment plan or different best eye drops for dry eyes with contact lenses tailored to your specific condition.

Q6: Are there specific ingredients I should look for in eye drops for contact lenses?
Yes, some ingredients are particularly beneficial. Hyaluronate (or hyaluronic acid) is a popular choice for its excellent hydrating properties, often found in products like BLINK Contacts and Biotrue Hydration Boost. Electrolytes can mimic natural tears, and ingredients like HP-Guar (found in some drops not reviewed here but often recommended) can also provide sustained relief. Always look for formulations that state they are safe for contact lens use.

Q7: Can I use eye drops for dry eyes with extended wear contact lenses?
Many eye drops designed for dry eyes with contact lenses are generally safe for use with extended wear lenses, but it’s always best to double-check the product’s specific instructions and, ideally, consult your eye care professional. Some drops might be more suitable than others depending on the lens material and your eye’s sensitivity. Finding the best eye drops for dry eyes with contact lenses for extended wear might require a specific recommendation from your doctor.