Contact lenses offer a convenient and effective way to correct vision, but they come with responsibilities that extend beyond simply cleaning and inserting them properly.
One often overlooked aspect is their expiration date. So, can contact lenses expire?
Yes, all contact lenses do expire, and using them past their shelf life can pose serious risks to your eye health and vision.
Why Do Contact Lenses Expire?
All contact lenses are packaged in a sealed, sterile container filled with a disinfecting solution that keeps them safe until opened. However, both the lens material and the solution can degrade over time, which is why manufacturers include an expiry date—typically 1–4 years after the production date.
Here’s what happens when lenses age:
- Material breakdown: Soft lenses may dry out and become brittle. Rigid lenses may warp or lose their shape, making them uncomfortable or ineffective.
- Loss of sterility: Over time, the sealed solution can become less effective at preventing microbial contamination on the lens.
- Compromised packaging: Exposure to heat or sunlight can damage the packaging, introducing bacteria or reducing the effectiveness of the preserving solution.
Even if an expired lens looks fine, it may no longer be safe or effective to wear.
The Risks of Wearing Expired Contact Lenses
Using expired contact lenses may seem harmless, but it can cause more than just mild irritation. Potential consequences include:
Eye Infections
Expired lenses can become a breeding ground for bacteria, fungi, and other pathogens. Once introduced into the eye, these microorganisms can lead to infections such as conjunctivitis, keratitis, or even more serious complications.
Irritation & Discomfort
Degraded lenses lose their flexibility and may have sharp edges or uneven surfaces. This can lead to stinging, redness, tearing, or a persistent gritty feeling in your eye.
Blurry or Distorted Vision
As the lens material breaks down, its ability to hold the correct prescription weakens. You might find your vision is blurrier, or that the lenses do not sit properly on your eyes anymore.
Corneal Damage
Long-term use of expired lenses increases your risk of corneal abrasions or ulcers, both painful conditions that require immediate medical attention.
Safe Contact Lens Practices
To keep your eyes healthy and your lenses safe to use, follow these essential care and storage tips:
- Use fresh lens solution daily: Never reuse old solution or top it off. Always clean your lens case and fill it with fresh sterile solution each time.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: Heat can speed up lens degradation, and cold can affect the consistency of the solution. Store your lenses at room temperature, away from sunlight.
- Replace your case every 3 months: Even with regular cleaning, cases can become contaminated over time.
- Wash your hands thoroughly: Before touching your lenses or eyes, wash your hands with soap and water, then dry them with a lint-free towel.
- Stick to the replacement schedule: Whether your lenses are daily, bi-weekly, or monthly disposables, wear them only for the intended period.
What to Do if You Used Expired Contact Lenses
Mistakes happen. If you discover that you have worn expired lenses:
- Remove the lenses immediately.
- Rinse your eyes with sterile saline (if available).
- Monitor for symptoms like redness, burning, blurry vision, or pain.
- Contact your eye care provider promptly if any symptoms arise.
Do not continue using expired lenses, even if they feel fine. The damage they cause may not be immediately noticeable.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still use lenses a few days past the expiration date?
No. The expiration date reflects the final day the manufacturer can guarantee the product’s safety and effectiveness. Even if they seem okay, the risks outweigh the benefits.
Does storing them properly extend their shelf life?
Proper storage keeps the lenses viable until the expiry date, but it does not extend that date. Always discard lenses after the expiration date, even if they are unopened.
Is it safe to buy contact lenses online?
Yes, but only purchase from reputable sources. Always double-check the expiration date and make sure it matches the prescription provided by your optometrist.
How often should I get my prescription checked?
The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends a comprehensive eye exam every 1–2 years, depending on your age, health, and whether you wear contact lenses.
We Can Help
Contact lenses are medical devices that require careful use, just like any other form of prescription eyewear. Treating them casually—by wearing them longer than recommended or ignoring the expiry date—can compromise your comfort, vision, and long-term eye health.
At Eye Wellness in Niagara Falls, our friendly and knowledgeable team is here to help you make informed decisions about your contact lenses. Whether you are new to lenses or a long-time wearer, we offer advice and quality vision care to support your comfort and clarity. Book your next eye exam today and give your eyes the care they deserve.
