If your contact lenses feel dry by midday or your eyes burn the moment you put them in, you may feel frustrated. Many people with dry eyes find standard lenses uncomfortable, so specialty options like scleral lenses often bring the relief they need. In this blog, we’ll cover which lenses work best for dryness and what steps help you achieve long-lasting comfort.
Why dry eyes make contact lenses uncomfortable
Dry eyes happen when your tear film does not stay balanced or stable. You may produce fewer tears than normal, or your tears may evaporate too quickly.
Contact lenses sit on the surface of your eye and rely on a healthy tear film to stay comfortable. When your eyes feel dry, your lenses may cause:
- Burning or stinging
- A gritty or sandy feeling
- Redness
- Cloudy or fluctuating vision
- Lens awareness throughout the day
Once you understand the cause of your symptoms, you can choose the best contact lenses for your needs.
Scleral lenses and why they help dry eyes
Scleral lenses create a smooth and hydrated surface over your eye. They vault over the cornea and hold a reservoir of sterile saline that keeps your eye comfortable throughout the day. This design supports moisture and stability, especially for people with moderate to severe dryness who struggle with regular lenses.
Benefits of scleral lenses include:
- A consistent layer of hydration
- Less irritation from blinking
- Reduced lens awareness
- Clearer, more stable vision
These specialty contact lenses work well for many patients who cannot tolerate standard materials.
Other contact lens options that support dry eyes
Not everyone with dryness needs scleral lenses. During a contact lens exam, your eye doctor may recommend other specialty contact lenses or specific materials that help hold moisture longer.
Daily disposable lenses
Fresh lenses each day feel smooth and clean. They help reduce the buildup of debris that often irritates dry, sensitive eyes.
Rewetting-friendly materials
Some lens materials attract and retain tears better than others. Lenses designed for moisture retention often improve comfort for mild to moderate dryness.
Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses
RGP lenses allow high levels of oxygen to reach your cornea, which may help reduce irritation for some people.
Hybrid lenses
Hybrid lenses combine a firm center with a soft outer skirt. They provide enhanced clarity and comfort for people who want sharper vision without the dryness they experience with traditional soft lenses.
Each option offers unique benefits, and our eye doctors can help you decide which design best supports your vision and comfort.
How dry eye treatment improves your contact lens comfort
Even the best contact lenses may feel uncomfortable if your underlying dryness goes untreated. Your doctor may recommend a personalized dry eye treatment plan to improve your tear film and support long-term comfort.
Depending on your symptoms, treatment may include:
- Prescription or medicated eye drops
- Warm compresses
- Lipid-based artificial tears
- In-office dry eye treatments, such as OptiLight IPL therapy, that target inflammation or blocked glands
Improving tear quality helps your lenses stay more comfortable throughout the day.
Daily habits that support lens comfort
Small changes can make your contact lenses feel better:
- Drink water consistently to support natural tear production
- Limit time in front of fans or direct air vents
- Take screen breaks to reduce blinking fatigue
- Clean and replace lenses as recommended
- Use lubricating drops that are safe for contact lenses
When to schedule a contact lens exam
If your lenses still feel uncomfortable despite using eye drops and adjusting your routine, schedule a comprehensive eye exam at The Eye Center to evaluate your dryness. At our Cornea & Scleral Lens Clinic, we offer advanced solutions tailored to your needs, including custom-designed contact lenses that provide clarity, comfort, and improved eye health.
Led by Dr. Sydney Madrigal, our clinic uses the latest diagnostic imaging and technology to help patients achieve clear vision when glasses or standard lenses are not enough.
Persistent dryness deserves attention, especially if your symptoms affect your daily activities. Schedule an appointment today to find contact lenses that help your eyes feel hydrated, healthy, and comfortable again.
