Summer with coloured contact lenses: What to do (and not do) when you want to take them to the water, for sport and for lounging

Summer is the perfect time to shine – literally. Sun, water, festivals, experiences. And on top of that, coloured contact lenses that will make you unmissable, whether you’re heading for a swim, a concert, or just an ice cream. But what if you’re only just starting out? It’s not like slipping on a new pair of sandals – it takes a little care. And it also helps to know what you can get away with and what you’d better avoid.

Can I go in the water with coloured contact lenses?

Short answer: It’s better not to swim with your lenses in.
Longer answer: Water in pools, lakes or the sea contains bacteria, chlorine, salt and other “treats” that don’t get on well with your eyes. If water gets between the lens and your eye, you risk irritation – or, in the worst case, an infection.

Want to keep your lenses in around water for a photo or for the look? That’s fine – but don’t submerge your head, and after being by the water, take your lenses out as soon as possible, clean them and store them in fresh solution. And if you get splashed while messing about in a shallow pool? You’ll survive. And usually the lens will too.

What about sport, dancing and an active summer?

Here we’ve got good news – coloured contact lenses (including prescription ones) are much more practical for sport than glasses. They don’t slip, they don’t steam up, and they won’t break if you overdo it a bit at beach volleyball. Plus, they don’t stop you putting on sunglasses.

Just keep in mind:

• Sweat + dust + windy weather = a higher chance the lens will shift or that something will get into your eye. Always carry a case, solution and drops.

• If you’re outside for a long time, we recommend wearing sunglasses over your lenses – UV radiation isn’t a friend to eyes or lenses.

• If you’re planning an all-day trip, give your eyes a break now and then – and don’t rub your eyes with hands sticky from an ice lolly.

What if I fall asleep with my lenses in?

Let’s be honest – on a blanket, in a hammock, or in the car on the way back from a trip, it’s hard not to nod off. If it happens and you doze for a bit with your lenses in, the world won’t end. But when you wake up, you might notice:

• a feeling of dryness in your eyes,

• mild irritation,

• or that the lens “feels odd”.

What to do? Blink, treat your eyes to some drops, and if that doesn’t help, it’s better to take the lenses out, clean them and let your eyes rest for a while. And in the evening, definitely let them breathe without lenses – ideally with a cooling compress (and a glass of lemonade in hand).

A few tips for beginners (and forgetful pros too):

• Always wash your hands before handling your lenses. Summer is lovely, but full of sun cream, ice cream, sand and festival chips.

• Never lend your lenses – not even to your best friend or a sibling. Every eye is unique.

• You can also get coloured lenses with prescription, so you don’t have to choose between seeing well and looking good – you can have both.

• At home, always keep a spare pair of glasses, in case your eyes get tired or a lens decides to be stubborn.

And most importantly: enjoy it!

Coloured contact lenses are a great way to add sparkle to your summer look – whether you’re going to cosplay, an open-air cinema, or you just want to try something new. All it takes is a little care and common sense.

Need advice on choosing? We also offer prescription lenses, subtle and extravagant shades, and tips on how to do it. Message us or take a look in the e-shop – this year you’ll have the most colourful look under the sun! 🌞👁️