Do Contacts Expire if Not Opened? The Truth About Contact Shelf Life
The question of whether contacts expire if unopened is a common one, especially for those who buy contacts in bulk or have a large supply on hand. The short answer is: yes, unopened contact lenses do expire. However, understanding the specifics of expiration dates and the potential risks of using expired lenses is crucial for maintaining good eye health.
This article will delve into the details of contact lens expiration, addressing common concerns and providing guidance on safe contact lens handling and disposal.
How Long Do Unopened Contact Lenses Last?
The expiration date printed on the contact lens packaging is not arbitrary. It's a critical indicator of the lens's integrity and safety. Unopened contact lenses have a shelf life, typically ranging from several months to a couple of years, depending on the brand and type of lens. Always refer to the expiration date printed on the packaging. Using lenses past their expiration date significantly increases the risk of eye infections and complications.
What Happens to Contact Lenses After They Expire?
Over time, the materials that make up contact lenses can degrade. This degradation can lead to:
- Changes in lens shape and flexibility: The lens might become brittle, less comfortable, and harder to insert and remove.
- Increased risk of infection: Degraded materials are more likely to harbor bacteria and other microorganisms, leading to serious eye infections like keratitis.
- Reduced clarity and vision quality: The lens's optical properties may deteriorate, resulting in blurry vision.
Using expired lenses, even if unopened, exposes your eyes to unnecessary risks.
Why Do Unopened Contacts Expire?
The expiration date takes into account the potential for degradation of the lens material over time due to:
- Exposure to air and moisture: Even if sealed, minute amounts of air and moisture can penetrate the packaging, leading to gradual changes in the lens's composition.
- UV degradation: Some components of the contact lens material are susceptible to degradation from ultraviolet (UV) light, even within the packaging.
- Chemical changes: The manufacturing process involves chemicals that may slowly react over time, altering the lens's properties.
Can I Use Contacts Past Their Expiration Date?
No, you should never use contact lenses past their expiration date. The risks of eye infection and vision problems significantly outweigh any perceived savings from using expired lenses. Discard any contact lenses that have passed their expiration date, even if they appear to be in perfect condition.
What if I Accidentally Use Expired Contacts?
If you accidentally used expired contact lenses, monitor your eyes closely for any signs of discomfort, redness, pain, excessive tearing, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light. If you experience any of these symptoms, immediately remove the lenses and contact your eye doctor or ophthalmologist.
How Should I Store My Contact Lenses?
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the integrity of your contact lenses. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions, but generally, you should:
- Keep the lenses in their sterile solution: Never reuse the solution; always use fresh solution each time you store the lenses.
- Store the lenses in a clean, dry case: Keep the case clean and replace it regularly, as recommended by your eye care professional.
- Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures: Do not leave the lenses in direct sunlight or near sources of heat.
By following these guidelines and discarding lenses past their expiration date, you can protect your eye health and ensure optimal vision. Remember, your eye health is paramount, and using expired lenses is a risk you should never take.
