If you wear contact lenses, you may have wondered, "Do contacts expire?" The short answer is yes, contact lenses do expire. Understanding the expiration of your contacts is crucial to maintaining eye health and ensuring the effectiveness of the lenses.
Why Do Contacts Expire?
Contact lenses are medical devices made from specific materials designed to maintain moisture, provide comfort, and correct your vision. Over time, these materials can degrade, losing their effectiveness. Expired lenses may not perform as intended, leading to discomfort, blurred vision, or even potential eye infections.
How to Check the Expiration Date
The expiration date is usually printed on the packaging of your contact lenses. It indicates the last date the lenses are guaranteed to be safe and effective when stored under appropriate conditions. The format is often in the form of "YYYY-MM" or "MM-YYYY," so if you see "2024-09," it means that the lenses are good until September 2024.
Do Unopened Contacts Expire?
Yes, even unopened contact lenses have an expiration date. While the sealed packaging protects the lenses from contamination and keeps them sterile, the materials inside can still degrade over time. The expiration date on unopened contacts ensures that the lenses remain safe, effective, and comfortable to use. Using unopened contacts past their expiration date can still pose risks, such as reduced effectiveness and potential discomfort. Always check the packaging for the expiration date and ensure you use your lenses before they expire, even if they haven't been opened yet.
Risks of Using Expired Contacts
Using expired contact lenses can pose several risks to your eyes:
Reduced Effectiveness: The materials in the lenses can break down, making them less effective at correcting your vision.
Discomfort: Expired lenses may lose moisture, causing dryness and irritation in your eyes.
Infection Risk: The breakdown of materials can lead to bacterial growth on the lenses, increasing the risk of eye infections.
Inaccurate Prescription: Over time, your eye prescription may change. Using old lenses with an outdated prescription can lead to strain and discomfort.
Proper Storage of Contact Lenses
To ensure your contact lenses remain effective until the expiration date, proper storage is essential. Keep them in their original packaging, away from direct sunlight, and at room temperature. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures, as this can accelerate the degradation of the lens material.
What to Do With Expired Contacts
If you find that your contact lenses have expired, it's best to dispose of them safely and order a new pair. Avoid using expired lenses, even if they seem to be in good condition. It's always better to prioritize your eye health and vision.
Contact lenses do expire, and using them beyond their expiration date can lead to various risks, including discomfort and infections. Always check the expiration date on your lens packaging, store them properly, and replace them as needed. By following these guidelines, you can keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear.
