Yes, you can technically swim while wearing colored contacts — but we strongly recommend taking them out before you get in the water. Pool, lake, ocean, and even shower water is one of the worst environments for any contact lens. It can trap bacteria against your eye, make the lens swell, and turn a fun afternoon into an eye infection. Here is what you need to know before you jump in.
Yes, you can — the lens will not dissolve or wash off your eye. But swimming with any contact lens raises the risk of irritation and infection, because the lens traps water and bacteria against your eye. We recommend taking colored contacts out before swimming and putting them back in after with clean hands and fresh solution.
Can you wear contact lenses in a swimming pool?
It is possible, but we advise against it. Pool water contains chlorine and microbes, and contact lenses absorb the water and hold it against your eye. If you must swim, wear airtight goggles, keep your eyes closed underwater, and remove the lenses right after the swim.
Can you swim in the ocean or a lake with contact lenses?
Salt water and freshwater add the same problems as a pool, and lakes can contain microorganisms that pools do not. The safest choice is to leave your lenses out of the water entirely. If they get wet, remove them, rinse them with fresh solution, and rest your eyes.
Can you put contact lenses in water?
No. Water is not sterile and does not preserve lenses the way contact lens solution does. Never store, rinse, or soak lenses in tap water, pool water, or bottled water. Use fresh multipurpose solution every time.
Can you shower with contact lenses in?
A quick shower with your face away from the spray is usually fine, but do not let water hit your eyes directly. Hot tubs are riskier and should be avoided with contacts in. Remove your lenses and clean them if they get soaked.
Do colored contacts need a prescription?
Yes. U.S. regulations require a valid prescription for all contact lenses, including zero-power cosmetic lenses. Add your prescription at checkout or choose 0.00 for decorative wear, and we will verify it before shipping.
