Many users use eye drops when wearing optics. These drugs perform several functions at once: moisturizing the mucous membrane and surface of the lens, facilitating adaptation to the optics, improving its tolerability, as well as eliminating discomfort during dry keratitis and allergic reactions. Read more in the article.
Eye drops for wearing contact lenses are medicinal solutions, usually aqueous, which are injected in small quantities into the organs of vision. They contain several active components that complement each other for better effectiveness of the drug. Drops are used while contact lenses are directly on the eyes, if additional moistening of the conjunctiva is required, or after removing the optics. They create a film on the surface of the cornea, similar in composition to natural tears, which provides a lubricating and moisturizing effect for several hours. Typically, contact lens drops are universal, suitable for soft and hard lenses. Thanks to them, symptoms such as dryness, redness, and eye fatigue are quickly eliminated.
What is usually included in moisturizing drops?
As a rule, these drugs contain surfactants, lubricants, and moisturizers, which also have a bactericidal effect. Drops can be used daily without fear of causing harm to the visual organs. They are evenly distributed over the surface of the eyes without affecting the quality of vision. These are the components that form the basis of almost all moisturizers used when wearing contact lenses.
- Distilled water is the base of the solution.
- Hyaluronic acid is a substance known for its effective properties. It binds well and holds water molecules on the surface, forming a thin film, thereby providing long-lasting hydration. Sodium hyaluronate also promotes the regeneration of damaged corneal cells, increasing the feeling of wearing comfort.
- Glycerin has been used in medicine for a long time as an inexpensive product that has a strong softening and lubricating effect. It is often added to cosmetic preparations designed to relieve irritation and flaking of the skin and make hair soft. Glycerin also has antiseptic properties.
- Povidone is a substance added to moisturizing eye drops to give them some viscosity, which contributes to a more long-lasting effect. The product envelops the lens and the surface of the eye, maintaining hydration for several hours even with lenses in place.
In addition to the main elements, the drops may also contain synthetic or natural additives and vitamins. Before purchasing a product, you need to carefully study its composition. Sometimes it contains substances that are contraindicated, for example, during pregnancy or any diseases.
What are moisturizing eye drops for?
Contact lenses are a foreign object in the organ of vision. No wonder the user feels an unpleasant feeling when wearing them. It is unusual for the eyes to have something else on top of the cornea. It takes a person some time for the discomfort to go away.
Their main advantages:
- allow you to wear them for a long time;
- provide long-term work with digital devices and stay with air conditioning;
- allow you not to remove correction products;
- eliminate discomfort due to increased eye sensitivity and allergic reactions;
- allow you to work in rooms with a lot of dust;
- used when using transparent and colored correction products.
The choice of drug is determined by the treating ophthalmologist. The doctor checks the condition of the anterior segment of the eye and selects the most suitable drops, taking into account the lifestyle and habits of the contact lens user.
When a person purchases ophthalmic medications while using lenses, he pays attention to the following:
- expiration date: do not instill drops with an expired expiration date;
- read the instructions for the drug before using it;
- do not instill the product if there are contraindications;
- pay attention to the quality of the product packaging: it should not be damaged.
Opti-free
These drops eliminate discomfort when using any type of SCL. They are instilled as needed throughout the day, as well as before or after sleep.
Opti-free relieves irritation, discomfort, and blurred vision. These symptoms appear when the lens dries out during use of the SCL. Also, such drops moisturize the correction product and help eliminate substances and particles that cause irritation and discomfort. Opti-free in rare cases cause side effects and are contraindicated for persons with individual intolerance to the components of the drug.
Users put 1-2 drops into their eyes, then blink several times. If after the procedure the discomfort signs do not disappear, the correction agent is immediately removed and the patient visits an ophthalmologist.
It has keratoprotective and moisturizing properties. The composition of the drug includes sodium hyaluronate. It is characterized by good adhesive properties in relation to the cornea. A uniform precorneal tear film is formed on the surface of the latter. It persists for a long time, is not washed off by blinking movements and does not impair visual acuity.
Hilo-chest provides a comfortable feeling when wearing correction products. It protects your eyes from dryness and irritation for a long time. Drops effectively eliminate discomfort when wearing contact correction products of all types. Hilo-chest is not recommended for use if you have hypersensitivity to any of the components of the drops.
Moisturizing drops should be instilled into the conjunctival cavity, 1 drop three times a day. If the user needs, they can be used more often. The frequency of instillation is determined individually by the doctor, taking into account the person’s feelings.
Thealosis
The main active ingredient of the drug is trehalose. This is a substance of natural origin that is present in the bodies of plants and animals and helps them survive in extremely dry conditions. Drops have a protective, antioxidant, moisturizing effect.
They are used when there is a feeling of discomfort, a foreign object in the eye and fatigue caused by exposure to adverse factors - dust, wind, dry air, prolonged use of digital devices. It is applied to lenses to eliminate unpleasant symptoms.
Moisturizing drops are instilled 1 drop into both eyes throughout the day as needed into the conjunctival sac. They should not be used if you have a history of allergies to the components of Thealose.
Artelak splash
The drug contains hyaluronic acid: it moisturizes the organ of vision for a long time and stabilizes the tear film, ensuring the normal condition of the corneal surface. The drops do not contain preservatives, so they can be applied to contact lenses.
Artelak Splash provides intense and long-lasting hydration of the conjunctiva and cornea.
Indications for its use:
- dryness of the organ of vision caused by stress, lifestyle, harmful external factors;
- severe dry eye syndrome (dry eye syndrome), caused by systemic diseases, operations on the organ of vision and taking certain medications;
- discomfort caused by wearing contact lenses of any type.
Drops are instilled into the conjunctival cavity, 1 drop at a time, as needed. If a person wears contact correction devices, they may not be removed: the drug is instilled directly onto the lens. Artelak Splash should not be used if you are intolerant to any of the components of the ophthalmic solution.
Okutiarz
The sterile eye solution does not contain preservatives. It has keratoprotective properties, moisturizes the eyes, and lubricates the surface of the organ of vision. In terms of its effect, the drug is close to natural tears.
Ocutiarisis is recommended to eliminate signs of dry eye syndrome that develops with:
- Sjögren's syndrome;
- lesions of the cornea, erosions or surgical intervention on it;
- wearing contact correction devices;
- menopause;
- unfavorable external factors;
- working on digital devices, driving for long periods of time;
- swimming in a pool with chlorinated water.
The drug should be instilled into the conjunctival cavity as needed. Its use is recommended while wearing contact lenses of any type.
Systane-ultra
Eye drops form a protective film on the cornea, which protects the organ of vision from adverse factors and infection. They effectively eliminate burning, discomfort, and dry eyes. Systain Ultra promotes long-term use of digital devices and correction tools. At the same time, the drug does not impair vision clarity.
Indications for the use of drops are:
- eye irritation caused by unfavorable external factors;
- wearing contact correction devices;
- SSG.
They should not be prescribed to children and persons with allergies to the components of the drug. Systane Ultra can be used throughout the day. To do this, it is instilled into the conjunctival cavity as needed. After the procedure, it is recommended to blink: this will help better distribute the product over the surface of the eye. Drops can be used directly on lenses.
Visine pure tear
The drug is based on a plant extract of the polysaccharide group. It is similar to natural human tears and is suitable for regular use.
Visine pure tear moisturizes the cornea and conjunctiva, and the effect lasts for a long time. It stabilizes the tear film and relieves eye strain, restoring comfortable sensations. The product combats signs of asthenopia, which often develop when working on digital devices, wearing contact lenses or driving a car. With regular use, there is an improvement in the condition of the cornea and conjunctiva.
Visine pure tear is instilled 1 drop as needed. To ensure that it is evenly distributed, you need to blink several times after the procedure. Any blurred vision that appears will disappear within a few seconds.
You can read about cheaper analogues of Visin at the link.
When is the use of contact lens drops recommended?
Experts advise using moisturizing preparations in cases where it is necessary to cope with negative phenomena in the eye area when wearing optics: dryness, irritation, redness. This can happen in the following situations:
- at the beginning of using optics by beginners. Even the softest and most comfortable lens is still a foreign body in the eye, and if you’re not used to it, it can cause discomfort;
- when exposed to too cold or hot temperatures, for example, if work involves frequent exposure to the street;
- when in a room with air-conditioned or dusty air, while working in a hot shop;
- when spending a long time at the computer;
- when traveling on vacation from a country with an unusually warm climate and bright sun;
- finally, with dry mucous membranes, which can occur from taking certain medications (in particular, diuretics), and a lack of vitamins for the eyes.
Global optical manufacturers produce a wide range of eye drops for wearing lenses. Before purchasing, you should consult with an ophthalmologist, he will help you make a choice. We present a short overview of the most popular drugs.
Vizoteque Giasol
A product from the German manufacturer Vizoteque eliminates discomfort when using contact optics. Drops soften and moisturize lenses and mucous membranes, relieve redness and fatigue. Vizoteque Giasol is also recommended for people experiencing visual stress: for example, when working at a computer for a long time or for long-distance drivers.
The liquid contains hyaluronic acid, which effectively moisturizes the surface of the optics and the cornea. A powerful disinfectant component, hypromellose, destroys microorganisms that affect the conjunctiva of the eye, and also has a regenerating effect. Doctors recommend using Vizoteque Giasol drops for beginners before putting on contact lenses. They neutralize the feeling of discomfort from unusual sensations. A 15 ml bottle is used very sparingly and will last for a month of use.
What are the types of contact lens solutions?
Based on the functions performed:
- disinfectants (peroxide);
- multifunctional;
- cleansing (enzyme);
- saline (saline solutions).
This classification is considered the main one in ophthalmology. Below we will go into detail on each point.
In addition, liquids are also distinguished depending on the type of contact optics for which they are intended to care:
- for hard lenses;
- for soft ones;
- for people of color.
"Licontin Comfort Neo"
Russian drops are intended for those who experience irritation and discomfort when using contact lenses. There may be several reasons for this: special sensitivity of the eyes, getting used to a new model, excessive dryness of the surrounding air. Ophthalmologists also recommend the product for dry eye syndrome. The liquid stabilizes the tear film, promoting additional viscosity. Taurine in the drops nourishes the cornea and mucous membrane. The borate buffer maintains an optimal Ph value corresponding to the Ph of the tear fluid, so Licontin Comfort Neo drops are absolutely biocompatible with eye tissue and hypoallergenic. The poloxamer in the composition increases surface tension, giving the lenses additional smoothness. Drops are available in an 18 ml bottle.
"Systain Balance"
An effective product for moisturizing the mucous membrane and contact lenses from Alcon. Designed to combat dry and irritated eyes. Especially relevant for users who spend a lot of time with gadgets or in front of the computer. "Systein Balance" refers to "artificial tears" preparations and promotes the production of natural tear fluid. The basis of the drug is mineral oil, which soothes irritated eye tissue. Polypropylene glycol stabilizes the lipid layer of the tear film, preventing active evaporation of moisture from the surface of the cornea and lenses, maintaining their long-term hydration. Drops should be used when discomfort occurs, which they will eliminate for several hours. A 10 ml bottle will last a long time.
Types and classifications of drugs
All lens drops are a sterile solution for easy wearing. They form an artificial tear film, which provides long-term hydration of the eyes. All drugs of this type are divided into:
- moisturizing drops;
- lubricating drops;
- “artificial tears” preparations.
Preparations from the “Artificial tear” series
There are also combination products that have both a moisturizing and lubricating effect. Lens drops are also divided into:
- antiallergic;
- vasoconstrictors;
- anti-inflammatory.
Drugs from the first group are prescribed to people with sensitive eyes prone to allergic reactions. Remedies from the second group are used if there is inflammation of the eyes caused by infectious diseases. The third group of drops helps eliminate redness of the eyes.
Vasoconstrictor drops are addictive with prolonged use. You should not use them for longer than recommended by your doctor.
Moisturizing preparations contain special components that remain on the surface of the eyeball for a long time. They spread as a thin film when blinking. In this case, even short-term blurring of vision does not occur. The salt composition is almost similar to natural tears. The preservatives included in the composition additionally have an antibacterial effect.
Substances such as povidone, glycerin or monosodium glutamate are used as moisturizing components.
Lubricating drops contain water-soluble polymers. They provide a protective film on the surface of the eye. This effect is provided by povidone, glycerin, hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose or carboxymethyl cellulose. They contain substances that help dissolve protein deposits on lenses.
Artificial tear preparations can help cope with dry eye syndrome. They reduce discomfort when wearing lenses. They replenish the deficiency of natural tear fluid. At the same time, disinfection of the cornea is ensured. The composition includes active ingredients that replace natural tears.
Like other medications, drops for lenses should be selected by an ophthalmologist. If moisturizing and lubricating drops do not work, gel products are used.
"Artelak Balance Uno"
A liquid designed to eliminate eye fatigue, dryness, redness or inflammation of the mucous membrane from excessive visual stress. The drops moisturize well and bring irritated organs of vision to a comfortable state. Recommended for users in the process of getting used to hard optics. The main active ingredient is sodium hyaluronate. Its property is to bind water molecules to each other and hold them in the form of an elastic film, allowing you to maintain long-term hydration of the mucous membrane. The composition of Artelak Balance Uno drops also includes electrolytes (sodium, magnesium, potassium, calcium), which activate important biochemical processes in the cells of the visual organs. However, the drug does not change their physiological state. The release form of the drug differs from the usual bottle. One box contains 30 disposable mini-capsules with a volume of 0.5 ml each, which ensures absolute sterility and savings in use. For one-time use you only need one capsule.
Drops from the manufacturer Ursapharm (Germany)
It is worth mentioning separately about the products of this famous German company, “Vid-komod”, “Hilozar-komod”, “Hilomax-komod” are designed for users with sensitive eyes and are compatible with all types of contact lenses, including rigid gas-permeable models. They make it easier to get used to the optics, eliminate the feeling of dryness and irritation, and are recommended for use during the rehabilitation period after operations. The liquids do not contain preservatives and are suitable even for allergy sufferers. Both ophthalmologists and consumers leave positive reviews about the results of using these drops.
Rules for using eye drops when wearing lenses
Before making a purchase, you should always consult your doctor. Based on the characteristics of the visual organs, he will select the medicine and prescribe the required dosage. It is better to purchase exactly the product that a specialist recommends - pharmacists often try to impose what is profitable to sell to them, and this may not be suitable for your eyes. A good selection of moisturizing drops is usually available in large online stores selling contact optics and accessories.
Carefully monitor the shelf life and storage conditions of the drugs. If they are violated, substances may decompose, and they will lose their medicinal properties and may become dangerous to the organs of vision. Do not use drops after the expiration date. During operation, you also need to pay attention to the appearance of the liquid: it may become cloudy or sediment may form.
MagazinLinz.ru team
Universal solutions for lenses
Nowadays there are universal lens care products on the market that can act as eye drops because they match the pH value of tears in a healthy eye. They will not cause any harm to your health. You can use this solution to disinfect and store optical products, and when dryness occurs, drop it into your eyes. Taking off and putting on lenses will be much more comfortable. You can do this with a minimum of effort.
The Lenzy.ru online store offers high-quality products for the care of optical products. We wish you happy shopping!
