Can Contact Lens Solution Freeze in Transit?

Contact lenses come seal-packed in the sterile saline solution. Saline solution is basically salt water which has a freezing point much lower than water. Usually, it is rare for the contact lens solution to get frozen, but if it does it will also turn your contact lenses solid. Contact lenses however, can be allowed to thaw. Inspection is mandatory before using them again.

Contact Lenses during Shipment

If you order contact lenses online, your package moves from warmer regions to colder regions. Though the shipper secure the vials, pocketed in warm bubble-wrap envelops to prevent freezing, sometimes the fiercely low temperatures set everything out of control. In case, you find your contact lenses shriveled and your solution frozen upon receiving a package, allow it to thaw on room temperature. Please remember that room should be well-heated. If you mistakenly abandon your package in a room or building that is not currently in use, and has a temperature lower than -20 degrees; your contact lenses are subjected to get completely frozen.

What to do when camping?

Courtesy: Scout Backpacking Community

Camping is a genuine concern. We can control indoor temperatures, but outside it may be way too cold. Outdoor weather can be unpredictable sometimes. If it suddenly turns harsh and you are being concerned about your contact lenses then let us tell guide you. Insert these contact lenses in eyes if you are not already wearing a pair. Body temperature will keep contact lenses from freezing. On the other hand, if it is your spare pair of contact lenses; then try rubbing them in your palms. It might be tedious if you have already broken the seals of the vials and transferred the lenses in the cases. However, friction will eventually help thawing your contacts. At sleeping, ensure you keep your cases close to your body such as in your sleeping case to keep them warm.

Also Read: Can Circle Contacts Freeze in Subzero Temperatures?

It is advised to use re-wetting drops as in colder climate your eyes may turn dry quickly. Low rate of oxygen at higher altitudes can be held accountable for the dryness. Though thawing should help your contactlenses get back to their shape, it is necessary that you inspect your lenses closely. Do not try to touch your crumpled lenses or else they will not remain usable.

5 Environments you should be Careful about when wearing Contact Lenses

Circle contact lenses are generally safe to wear but there are certain places where you should make sure that your eyes remain safe. Contact lenses don’t hurt by themselves, provided they are FDA approved. Yet they may be somewhat painful if carelessness is shown.

1. Welding Workshops & Chemical Industries

Welding labs and operators face an array of hazards from fumes to electric shocks and suffocation. A welder is required to wear special fire-resistant costume & safety eye wear. Contact lenses should be avoided in welding areas because of the high heating temperatures. Chemical industries that generate fumes, gaseous vapors & infrared radiation may also hinder with proper contact lens functioning. Since contact lenses are like a sponge; they let in all the gases they are exposed to.

2. Sports Courts

Observe caution whilst playing sports like badminton, tennis, and other close eye contact games. If you wear prescription contact lenses, create an extra barrier of safety by wearing safety eye wear to prevent serious damages. Wearing circle contacts whilst playing video/computer games can also cause eye-strain.

3. Beauty Salons

Though beauty salons must not prevent you wearing your fashion cosmetic lenses, it is advised to be a bit more vigilant during your stay in the building. A salon deals with hair sprays/aerosols, deodorants, cologne spray etc that might cause the appearance of an annoying film over the surface of contact lenses. Keep your eyes shut when you get finishing touches to tame your tresses using a hair spray.

4. Extreme Temperature Changes

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Use caution when wearing circle contacts in extreme temperature zones. I.e. sub-zero temperature or the places that have high heating temperatures such as oven, fire-place etc.

Also Read: 

Can heat from BBQ/Grill burn contact lenses?

Do Contact lenses freeze in sub zero temperatures?

5. Windy & Dusty Places

Wear safety eye wear to prevent irritation. Dust particles and windy weather irritate your eyes. Windy climate further turn your eyes & lenses dry.

Contact lenses should be immediately removed if they become uncomfortable suddenly & consistently. Avoid wearing circle lenses when you have cold or flu. Contact lenses are medical devices and you should only wear them if you consider yourself mature enough for the meticulous handling they demand.