If you’ve ever worn contact lenses with dry eyes, you know the feeling: itchy lids, blurry vision halfway through the day, and that constant urge to blink or rub. Annoying? Absolutely. But here’s the good news: In 2025, contact lens technology has finally caught up to your discomfort. There are now contact lenses made specifically to work with dry eyes — not against them.
According to Dr. Joy Lam, an experienced optometrist in Palo Alto, choosing the right lenses can make all the difference in comfort and eye health. We discuss the best contact lenses for dry eyes below, as well as how you can achieve a perfect fit with assistance from a dry eye doctor in Palo Alto.
So how do you find the right pair? Let’s break it down clearly so you don’t have to squint through another article.
Why Contacts Can Make Dry Eyes Worse
First, it helps to know what’s actually going on. Dry eye syndrome happens when your eyes don’t produce enough tears, or the tears evaporate too fast. Contacts — especially older or ill-fitting ones — can make things worse by blocking oxygen or pulling moisture away from your eyes.
But newer lenses in 2025 are smarter. They’re made to hold moisture longer, breathe better, and protect your eyes throughout the day.
Let’s talk about which lenses work best for different levels of dryness.
Why Dry Eyes and Contact Lenses Don’t Mix
Dry eye syndrome is caused by not making enough tears or tears that are not of good enough quality to keep the eyes moist. Typical symptoms are redness, irritation, and a gritty feeling. Also, regular contact lenses can make the dryness worse, so you should pick lenses that are designed to hold moisture.
Best Contact Lenses for Dry Eyes
Silicone Hydrogel Lenses
Silicone hydrogel lenses are more breathable and allow more oxygen to pass through the lens to the cornea than traditional hydrogel lenses. This will keep your eyes moist and limit irritation. They’re also ideal for contact lens wearers with chronic dry eyes.
Popular Brands:
- Acuvue Oasys with Hydraluxe
- Air Optix Plus HydraGlyde
- Biofinity by CooperVision
Daily Disposable Lenses
Disposable lenses are a fresh, new pair every single day, reducing contact lens discomfort due to the build-up of proteins and allergens. These lenses are perfect for dry eyes, as they stay moist and clean.
Popular Brands:
- Acuvue Oasys Max
- MyDay
- DAILIES Total1
Scleral Lenses
These lenses are larger than regular contacts sit on the sclera (the white of the eye) and provide a liquid-filled reservoir to keep eyeballs hydrated. AWP is especially useful for patients with severe dry eye disease.
Best For:
- Patients with advanced dry eye syndrome.
- People who have keratoconus or irregular corneas.
Hybrid Lenses
Hybrid lenses have an RGP center and soft skirt, combining the clarity of RGP lenses with the comfort of soft lenses. Their design helps trap moisture, which makes them a great alternative for dry-eye patients who need sharper vision.
Popular Brands:
- SynergEyes Duette
- UltraHealth Hybrid Lenses
Quick Reference: Best Contacts by Dry Eye Type
Navigate your options with confidence.
| Condition | Lens Type | Brands |
|---|---|---|
| Mild to moderate dryness | Silicone hydrogel | Acuvue Oasys w/ Hydraluxe, Biofinity |
| Screen-heavy use | Daily disposables | Acuvue Oasys Max, MyDay |
| Severe dry eye | Scleral lenses | Custom-fit by your optometrist |
| Blurry vision + dryness | Hybrid lenses | SynergEyes Duette, UltraHealth |
Explore Your Perfect Match
Mild to Moderate Dryness
Ideal for everyday comfort.
Lens Type: Silicone hydrogel
Brands: Acuvue Oasys w/ Hydraluxe, Biofinity
Screen-Heavy Use
Maximum hydration for digital strain.
Lens Type: Daily disposables
Brands: Acuvue Oasys Max, MyDay
Severe Dry Eye
Specialized relief for chronic conditions.
Lens Type: Scleral lenses
Brands: Custom-fit by your optometrist
Blurry Vision + Dryness
Addressing both clarity and comfort.
Lens Type: Hybrid lenses
Brands: SynergEyes Duette, UltraHealth
Still Unsure?
A dry eye exam in Palo Alto will pinpoint the cause and guide your best option.
Dr. Joy Lam
Receiving Dry Eye with Your Contact Lenses
No matter which type of contact you wear, you can improve comfort and reduce dryness through good eye care habits. Some expert tips provided by your Palo Alto optometry professionals include:
Use preservative-free eye drops: Artificial tears help to keep your lenses and eyes hydrated.
Ensure Proper Lens Care: Always clean and store your lenses according to the advice of your eye doctor.
Stay Hydrated: Hydrate with a lot of water to help your body make its own tears.
Limit Screen Time: Long periods of staring at screens lead to reduced blinking, which can cause dry eyes.
For the Eyes: Your eyes are exposed to wind and UV exposure, which can damage your eyes, which can cause too much dryness.
Opt for Omega-3 Supplements: Omega-3 fatty acids can help increase tear production and promote overall eye comfort.
Visit a Dry Eye Specialist: To determine which contact lenses you should use, consult with a dry eye doctor in Palo Alto.
Choose the Right Contact Lenses for Dry Eyes
Expert Recommendations given that we have specialists here at Refine Optometry who will work with you to find the lenses that fit your lifestyle out there while offering the utmost comfort. From daily disposables to specialized scleral lenses, we have customized options for your best vision and eye health.
So, schedule an appointment today with a reliable dry eye specialist in Palo Alto & get healthy, comfortable eyesight using the optimum contact lenses for dry eyes.