Is it safe to wear contact lenses while showering?

Aside from sterile contact lens solutions, any type of water can be harmful if you get it in your eyes while wearing contact lenses.

The risk of showering while wearing contact lenses is similar to the risk of swimming while wearing your contacts. It raises your risk of numerous eye issues, including dry eyes, eye infections, and inflammation.

In addition, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)Trusted Source, there’s a type of amoeba called Acanthamoeba that can be found in all types of water, but it’s more common in tap water or well water, like you might use to shower.

This amoeba can cause a serious eye infection called Acanthamoeba keratitis. Acanthamoeba keratitis is painful and difficult to treat and, in rare cases, can lead to blindness.

If you need to shower with your contact lenses in, take them out as soon as you’re done showering. Then soak them in disinfecting contact solution for 24 hours.