One of the most common questions I encounter is: Can I wear contact lenses in a sauna? It’s a valid concern, especially for those who rely on contacts for clear vision but don’t want to compromise their eye health. This topic ties into two of my earlier posts: How Hot Is a Sauna? and What to Wear in a Sauna, where I briefly touched on the subject. However, in this article, I’ll dive deeper into the science behind why wearing contact lenses in a sauna might not be the best idea.
The Short Answer
While it’s technically possible to wear contact lenses in a sauna, it’s generally not recommended. Let’s break down why.
Understanding the Sauna Environment
To grasp the potential risks, it’s important to first understand the conditions inside a sauna. Saunas vary in temperature and humidity, which can affect your contact lenses differently:
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Dry Saunas: These typically reach temperatures of 80-90°C (176-194°F) with low humidity.
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Finnish Saunas: These are hotter, often ranging between 90-100°C (194-212°F), and may have higher humidity levels.
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Infrared Saunas: These operate at lower temperatures, usually 55-60°C (131-140°F), but use infrared light to heat your body directly.
The high temperatures and, in some cases, humidity can impact the materials in your contact lenses, leading to potential discomfort or even damage to your eyes.
How Heat Affects Contact Lenses?
Contact lenses are made from various materials, primarily polymer- or silicone-hydrogel. These materials can react differently to heat and moisture. For instance:
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Soft Lenses: These contain a high percentage of water (often 40-60%), making them more susceptible to drying out in high heat. When the water content evaporates, the lenses can become uncomfortable and may even warp or stick to your eyes.
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Rigid Lenses: These are made from materials like fluorosilicone acrylate, which are less water-dependent. While they’re more stable in high temperatures, they can still pose risks, such as microplastic release or reduced oxygen permeability.
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Hybrid Lenses: These combine elements of both soft and rigid lenses, meaning they inherit the potential downsides of each.
In infrared saunas, the issue is compounded. Infrared light is absorbed by water, which means the water content in soft lenses can heat up significantly, potentially causing localized overheating of your eye tissue.
4 Risks of Wearing Contact Lenses in a Sauna
Here are some specific risks associated with wearing contact lenses in a sauna:
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Drying Out: Soft lenses, in particular, can dry out quickly in high heat, reducing their oxygen permeability and comfort. This can lead to irritation, redness, and even long-term damage to the lenses.
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Overheating: The heat from the sauna, especially in infrared models, can cause the lenses to warm up, potentially overheating the surface of your eyes.
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Microplastic Release: At high temperatures, some lens materials may break down, releasing microplastics or other chemicals near your eyes.
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Bacterial Buildup: Saunas are humid environments, which can increase the risk of bacterial or protozoal infections like Acanthamoeba Keratitis. This risk is heightened if you touch or rub your eyes while wearing lenses.
Are There Any Safe Alternatives?
If you’re determined to wear contact lenses in a sauna, disposable lenses might seem like a viable option. While they eliminate the risk of damaging your regular lenses, they don’t address the underlying issues of overheating, drying out, or bacterial buildup.
A better alternative? Consider going without lenses altogether. While it might feel inconvenient at first, your eyes will thank you. If you’re concerned about not being able to see clearly, you could always wear glasses before and after your sauna session.
What Do the Experts Say?
The medical community generally advises against wearing contact lenses in saunas. Ophthalmologists and family physicians often highlight the risks of overheating, dryness, and infection. While there’s a lack of direct, high-quality research on this specific topic, the consensus is clear: it’s better to err on the side of caution.
Final Thoughts
Wearing contact lenses in a sauna isn’t outright dangerous, but it does come with risks that could affect your eye health. The combination of high heat, humidity, and the materials used in contact lenses creates a less-than-ideal environment for your eyes.
If you’re a regular sauna-goer, consider leaving your lenses out during your sessions. Your eyes will be better protected, and you’ll avoid potential discomfort or long-term damage. And if you’re looking for a relaxing sauna experience at home, explore our range of infrared saunas designed for comfort and safety.
Remember, when it comes to your health, it’s always better to play it safe!