Can You Sleep in Yearly Colored Contact Lenses?
By Colored Contact Lenses Online | Seebelle | Published: 2026-10-20
Category: Tips & Care
Learn why sleeping in yearly colored contact lenses is unsafe, what the risks are, and how to care for your eyes and lenses properly.
Quick answer
No, you should never sleep in yearly colored contact lenses. Overnight wear significantly increases the risk of eye infections, corneal ulcers, and other complications, even if the lenses are labeled for daily wear.
Why yearly lenses are not safe for overnight wear
Yearly colored contact lenses are designed for daily wear only. Their materials and water content (typically around 40%) are not optimized for extended or overnight use. When you sleep with lenses in, your eyes receive less oxygen, which can lead to corneal hypoxia, swelling, and increased risk of infection.
Even if you occasionally nap with lenses on, the reduced tear exchange and oxygen flow create an environment where bacteria can thrive. The FDA has not approved yearly lenses for overnight wear, and doing so goes against standard eye care guidelines.
What happens if you accidentally fall asleep in your lenses
If you accidentally sleep in your yearly colored contacts, remove them as soon as you wake up. Do not reinsert them immediately—give your eyes a break. If you experience redness, pain, light sensitivity, or blurred vision, contact your eye doctor promptly.
Sleeping in lenses occasionally may not cause immediate harm, but repeated overnight wear raises the risk of serious complications like corneal ulcers, which can lead to permanent vision loss.
Frequently asked questions about sleeping in yearly colored contacts
- Can I nap for a few minutes with my colored contacts in?
- Even short naps can reduce oxygen flow to your eyes and increase the risk of infection. It's best to remove your lenses before any sleep, no matter how brief.
- What should I do if I accidentally sleep in my yearly lenses?
- Remove them as soon as you wake up. Do not reuse them immediately. Clean and disinfect them thoroughly before wearing again. If your eyes feel irritated, give them a day of rest. If symptoms like pain or redness persist, see an eye doctor.
- Are there any colored contact lenses approved for overnight wear?
- Only a few specialty contact lenses are FDA-approved for extended wear, and they are typically not colored or are designed for specific medical needs. Most colored lenses, including yearly options, are strictly for daily wear. Always check the labeling and follow your eye care professional's advice.
Products mentioned in this guide
- Mel Beige Euroring Colored Contact Lenses (Yearly): Mel Beige Euroring Colored Contact Lenses have a water content of 40% and are designed for yearly replacement. The moderate water content means the lens holds less moisture overnight, increasing the risk of dryness and irritation if worn during sleep.
Mel Beige Euroring Colored Contact Lenses (Yearly) - Buzios Rio Colored Contact Lenses (Yearly): Buzios Rio Colored Contact Lenses have a diameter of 14.2mm and a water content of 40%, with yearly replacement. The larger diameter may feel comfortable during the day, but like all yearly lenses, they are not designed for overnight wear and should be removed before sleeping.
Buzios Rio Colored Contact Lenses (Yearly)
