If your contact lenses ever start to feel dry, gritty, or uncomfortable during the day, you’re not alone. Many lens wearers experience dryness caused by long hours of wear, air conditioning, or screen use. The simplest and most effective way to restore comfort is by using rewetting drops for contact lenses.
These drops are specially made to keep your lenses moist, refresh your eyes, and prevent that burning or tired feeling that often appears later in the day. Let’s explore how rewetting drops work, how they differ from artificial tears, and how to use them safely for lasting comfort and clear vision.
What Are Rewetting Drops for Contact Lenses?
Rewetting drops are sterile eye drops designed specifically for contact lens wearers. Unlike regular lubricating drops or artificial tears, these drops are made to be used while wearing your lenses.
They help restore moisture between the lens surface and your eye, reducing friction, dryness, and irritation. Whether you wear soft lenses, silicone hydrogel lenses, or daily disposables, rewetting drops can make a big difference in how comfortable your eyes feel.
Why Contact Lenses Can Cause Dryness
Even the best contact lenses can sometimes cause dryness. This usually happens because:
- Lenses absorb part of your natural tears.
- Long wear times reduce tear film stability.
- Air conditioning, heating, or screen time increases tear evaporation.
- Poor hydration or skipping blinks while focusing on digital devices makes eyes drier.
Over time, this leads to that common sensation of dryness, irritation, or blurred vision — especially toward the end of the day.
Rewetting drops solve this by replenishing lost moisture and restoring smoothness to the lens surface, allowing your eyes to stay clear and hydrated.
How Rewetting Drops Work
When you apply rewetting drops, they instantly:
- Add moisture to both your lens and eye surface.
- Reduce friction between the lens and eyelid.
- Wash away debris that may have settled on the lens.
- Stabilize your tear film, which helps prevent future dryness.
The result is immediate comfort, sharper vision, and less irritation throughout the day.
Rewetting drops are available in small, portable bottles, making them easy to carry and use anytime your eyes need refreshment.
Benefits of Rewetting Drops for Contact Lenses
Using rewetting drops regularly can help you enjoy your contact lenses longer and with less discomfort.
1. Instant Moisture Boost
Just one or two drops can rehydrate your lenses, giving you instant comfort and clarity.
2. Prevents Dryness and Fatigue
Drops help maintain your tear film and prevent dryness caused by environmental factors or long wear.
3. Improves Lens Comfort
By keeping lenses smooth and lubricated, rewetting drops reduce friction that leads to irritation.
4. Extends Wear Time
If your lenses start to feel uncomfortable mid-day, a few drops can make them feel as fresh as when you first put them in.
5. Safe for All Lens Types
Most rewetting drops are suitable for soft lenses, silicone hydrogel lenses, and daily disposables. Always check the label to ensure compatibility.
Rewetting Drops vs. Artificial Tears
Many people confuse rewetting drops with artificial tears, but they are not the same.
| Feature | Rewetting Drops | Artificial Tears |
| Designed For | Use with contact lenses | Use without contact lenses |
| Formula | Lens-safe and preservative-free | May contain ingredients unsafe for lenses |
| Purpose | Moisturize and refresh lenses while worn | Treat dry eye directly on the eye surface |
| Use | Apply while wearing contacts | Apply when lenses are removed |
| Examples | Blink Contacts, Opti-Free Rewetting Drops | Refresh Tears, Systane Ultra |
If you wear contact lenses, only use rewetting drops labeled as “for contact lens use.” Artificial tears can contain oils or preservatives that damage lenses or blur your vision.
How to Use Rewetting Drops Safely
Using rewetting drops correctly is simple but important for best results.
- Wash your hands before touching your eyes or the bottle.
- Tilt your head back and look up.
- Gently pull down your lower eyelid and squeeze one or two drops into your eye.
- Blink a few times to spread the moisture evenly across your lenses.
- Use drops as needed throughout the day, especially if your eyes feel dry or irritated.
Avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye or lens, this keeps the bottle clean and prevents contamination.
How Often Should You Use Rewetting Drops?
You can use rewetting drops as often as needed, but most people find 2–4 times a day sufficient.
If you’re in dry or air-conditioned environments, using them every few hours can prevent discomfort before it starts.
However, if you find yourself needing them too often, it could mean your lenses are not the right fit, or you’re dealing with an underlying dry eye condition. In that case, it’s best to visit an eye care specialist.
Choosing the Best Rewetting Drops for Contact Lenses
When selecting rewetting drops, keep these points in mind:
1. Look for Preservative-Free Formulas
Preservatives can irritate sensitive eyes, especially with frequent use. Single-use vials or preservative-free options are the gentlest choice.
2. Match to Your Lens Type
Some drops are specially made for soft lenses, while others suit silicone hydrogel contacts. Always check the packaging for compatibility.
3. Consider Added Moisturizers
Drops with ingredients like hyaluronic acid or PVP (polyvinylpyrrolidone) help retain moisture longer and reduce dryness.
4. Avoid “Redness Relief” Formulas
Drops made to “get the red out” can cause rebound irritation and aren’t suitable for long-term use with contacts.
5. Ask Your Eye Care Professional
An optometrist can recommend rewetting drops tailored to your lens brand and eye condition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t use regular eye drops unless they say “safe for contact lenses.”
- Don’t overuse drops, it can wash away natural tears.
- Avoid touching the bottle tip to your eye or lashes.
- Replace opened bottles every 90 days (or as directed).
Following these steps helps you avoid infections and keeps your lenses comfortable all day.
When to See an Eye Doctor
If your eyes still feel dry even after using rewetting drops, it might be a sign of:
- Chronic dry eye disease
- Lens fit issues
- Allergies or sensitivities
- Tear gland problems
An eye doctor can evaluate your eye health and lens fit, then recommend more effective options like silicone hydrogel lenses or daily disposables to reduce dryness.
At Michigan Contact Lens, specialists perform detailed eye exams and help patients find the perfect lenses and drops for their comfort and vision needs.
Michigan Contact Lens Helps You Find the Right Comfort Solution
At Michigan Contact Lens, experts understand how frustrating dry or irritated eyes can be. They offer professional fittings, lens material recommendations, and guidance on the best rewetting drops for contact lenses that match your lifestyle.
Whether you’re a new lens wearer or someone who’s struggled with dryness for years, the right combination of lenses and care can transform your comfort.
Schedule a consultation today to learn how Michigan Contact Lens can help you enjoy clear, hydrated vision every day.
Conclusion
Rewetting drops for contact lenses are one of the simplest yet most effective ways to stay comfortable throughout the day. They refresh your eyes, restore moisture, and keep your vision clear, all without removing your lenses.
By choosing the right drops and using them properly, you can reduce dryness, extend lens wear time, and protect your eye health. And if dryness persists, professional care from Michigan Contact Lens ensures you find the best solution for lasting relief.