Do Contacts Expire?

If you wear contact lenses, you might have wondered at some point: do contacts expire? It’s a crucial question for maintaining eye health and ensuring the best vision experience. Your contacts have specific expiration dates based on their type, and adhering to these dates, along with proper care, is crucial for maintaining eye health and ensuring clear vision.

Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich

Understanding Contact Lens Types and Lifespan

Contact lenses come in various types, each with its own recommended lifespan. Knowing the difference can help you manage your lenses effectively and avoid potential complications.

Daily Disposables

Daily disposable lenses are designed to be worn for a single day and then discarded. They offer convenience and reduce the risk of eye infections since you’re always using a fresh pair. Since they are intended for one-time use, they don’t really “expire” in the traditional sense. However, they do have an expiration date printed on the packaging, which indicates when they should be used by to ensure optimal performance and safety.

Bi-weekly and Monthly Lenses

Bi-weekly and monthly lenses are meant to be worn for two weeks or one month, respectively, before being replaced. These lenses need regular cleaning and disinfecting to maintain eye health. The expiration date for these lenses is usually found on the packaging or on the lens case and signifies the last date you should use them. Once the replacement period has passed, the lenses should be discarded even if they appear to be in good condition.

How to Check the Expiration Date

The expiration date of your contact lenses is critical for ensuring safety and effectiveness. Here’s how you can check it:

• Packaging: Look for the expiration date on the box or individual blister packs. It is usually printed on the outer packaging and indicates when the lenses should be used by.
• Lens Case: For those who use rigid gas permeable lenses, check the lens case as it often has a label with the date when the lenses were manufactured. Make sure to replace your lenses according to the recommended schedule.
• Prescription Date: Keep track of your prescription’s expiration date as well. Your eye care professional will typically provide a prescription valid for one to two years, depending on your eye health.

Photo by Sammie Sander

Signs That Your Contacts Have Expired

Using expired contact lenses can lead to discomfort, reduced vision quality, and increased risk of eye infections. Here are some signs that your lenses may be past their prime:

• Discomfort: If you experience increased dryness, itching, or irritation, your lenses might be expired or not performing as they should.
• Blurry Vision: Lenses that no longer provide clear vision could be outdated or damaged.
• Discoloration or Deposits: Any unusual discoloration or buildup on your lenses is a sign that they should be replaced.
• Packaging Issues: If the packaging is damaged or if you notice a discrepancy between the printed expiration date and the lens’s performance, it’s best to err on the side of caution and replace them.

Tips for Maintaining Your Contact Lenses

Proper care and maintenance are essential for extending the lifespan of your contact lenses and keeping your eyes healthy.

• Follow the Replacement Schedule: Adhere to the recommended replacement schedule for your specific type of lenses to avoid complications.
• Keep Lenses Clean: Regularly clean and disinfect your lenses according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Avoid Overwear: Don’t wear your lenses beyond their recommended period, even if they seem fine.
• Store Properly: Use a clean lens case and replace it regularly to prevent contamination.

Photo by Nataliya Vaitkevich

Understanding the lifespan of your contact lenses and adhering to the recommended replacement schedules is vital for maintaining eye health and ensuring clear vision. Remember to always check the expiration date on the packaging, follow proper care instructions, and consult with your eye care professional if you have any concerns about your lenses.