Eye health is a top priority. If you're a contact lens wearer, you can appreciate the importance of keeping them clean and debris-free. That's why choosing a contact solution is a major decision and requires considerable thought. After all, contact solution plays an important role in your lens wear experience.
Contact solution contains elements that effectively remove any buildup that has formed on the lenses without scratching them. It also conditions the lenses so that they are moist and wet on the surface of your eyes. Lenses can safely be stored in contact solution when not in use, where they will be kept sterile and hydrated.
Types of Contact Lens Solutions
Multi-purpose solutions:
This is the best option for looking after your lenses. You get cleaning, disinfecting, hydrating and replenishing functions all in one bottle. This streamlines your routine, making comfort and hygiene a lot easier to achieve.
When you remove your lenses at the end of the day, just put a few drops of this solution on your lenses and rub them gently. Then, pour some of the same solution into your contact lens case so you can store them for as long as your optician has recommended.
A multi-purpose solution is recommended for soft contact lenses including silicone hydrogel contact lenses for both monthlies and weeklies. It's not recommended for RGP lenses as they require other cleaning routines.
Hydrogen peroxide solutions:
Hydrogen peroxide cleaning systems for contact lenses have a stronger disinfecting power. Unlike other types of solutions, peroxides don't include preservatives, which makes them a great option for those with very sensitive eyes.
Peroxide solutions can only be used with the advice of your optician as they usually include around 3% of hydrogen peroxide and require neutralizing.
Neutralizing happens either with a catalyst disk located in the bottom of the case itself or with tablets that are added to the solution. When added to the solution, these elements trigger the reaction that removes proteins from your lenses and neutralizes the hydrogen peroxide.
Note: If the peroxide is not neutralized for a certain amount of time (usually for 6 hours), the solution could seriously damage your eyes.
Gas permeable contact lens solutions:
As the name suggests, these solutions are specifically designed for gas permeable (or RGP) contact lenses. RGP lenses require a different maintenance routine, mostly consisting of two products: a cleanser and a conditioner. These solutions are usually sold in packs with everything you need.
Top 5 Contact Lens Solutions
Here are the 5 best contact lens solutions in the market:
1. Opti Free Pure Moist Solution (300ml)
Opti Free Pure Moist (300ml) is a multi-purpose contact lens solution by Alcon that cleans, rinses, and stores soft contact lenses. It keeps lenses moist for up to 16 hours, ensuring all-day comfort. The formula is clinically proven to provide effective cleaning while keeping your lenses feeling fresh. Whether you're working, traveling, or just going about your day, you can count on all-day comfort without irritation. For best results, use within six months of opening to maintain effectiveness.
2. Solo Soft Care Plus Solution (150ml)
Solo Soft Care Plus (150ml) is a multi-purpose lens solution that boosts hydration and comfort. Its advanced combination of sodium hyaluronate deeply hydrates lenses, locking in moisture for extended wear while reducing dryness, irritation, and discomfort. This powerful ingredient mimics the eye’s natural lubrication, keeping lenses feeling smooth and fresh all day. It cleans, disinfects, and stores lenses in one step, removing dirt and germs while keeping them soft. Perfect for long hours of wear, this solution helps keep lenses fresh and comfortable throughout the day, making it a great choice for daily users.
3. Solo Soft Care Solution (130ml)
Solo Soft Care Solution (130ml) provides deep hydration, preventing lenses from drying out. It supports eye health, making it ideal for long-term users. This multi-purpose solution cleans, stores, and rinses lenses easily while removing dirt, protein deposits, and bacteria. Its moisturizing effect keeps lenses comfortable all day, reducing dryness and irritation even during extended wear. It creates a smooth, refreshing layer that helps prevent friction between the lens and the eye. It keeps lenses fresh and irritation-free, ensuring clear vision and comfort. Whether used daily or occasionally, this solution helps maintain smooth, comfortable lenses for an effortless wearing experience.
4. Yalfresh All-in-One Contact Lens Solution (380ml)
Yalfresh All-in-One Lens Solution (380ml) cleans, disinfects, stores, and hydrates soft and colored lenses in one step. It ensures long-lasting moisture, preventing dryness and irritation. It helps reduce protein deposits, improving clarity and comfort. It is suitable for all soft contact lenses, including silicone hydrogel, ensuring compatibility with advanced lens materials. The formula maintains hydration and prevents buildup, keeping lenses fresh and comfortable. The large 380ml bottle is a cost-effective choice for regular users, offering both deep cleaning and hydration for a smooth and comfortable lens-wearing experience.
5. Amara Contact Lens Solution (100ml)
Amara Contact Lens Solution (100ml) Cleans, sterilizes, and removes dirt to keep lenses fresh and comfortable. It eliminates protein buildup and bacteria, reducing the risk of infections. With pH compatibility, it matches natural tears, ensuring comfort and reducing eye irritation. Safe for sensitive eyes, it provides gentle care without irritation. The easy-to-use formula ensures all-day freshness, making it a reliable choice for daily wearers. Its compact 100ml bottle is perfect for travel, offering a convenient way to maintain clean and clear lenses wherever you go.
Compatibility of Contact Lens Solutions
Different contact lenses are compatible with different contact lens solutions. You may want to talk to your eye doctor to ensure your contact lens solution meets your individual needs.
There are countless multi-purpose solutions in the market that are suitable for most contact lens wearers. However, what works for somebody is not necessarily going to work for someone else. Two requirements should always be kept in mind while choosing a contact lens solution: maximum humidification and sufficient disinfection.
To Sum Up
Cleanliness is an important aspect of proper contact lens care and handling of your contact lenses. Use the lens care system recommended by your eye care professional and carefully follow instructions on solution labeling.
Regular check-up examinations by your eye care professional is also a very important part of wearing contact lenses safely. We recommended that you follow your eye care professional's directions for follow-up examinations.