A recent study found that eighteen brands of popular soft contact lenses could contain toxic chemicals that don't break down in the body.
The consumer study conducted by Mamavation sent 18 sets of popular soft contact lenses to an EPA-certified lab to examine the lenses for per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS are known as "forever chemicals" because they don't break down in the body or in the environment. Every one of the lenses came back with varying levels of organic fluorine, which is a marker for PFAS. Brands that were found to have levels of PFAS included Alcon, Acuvue and CooperVision.
PFAS are commonly found in stain-resistant, oil-resistant and water-resistant products. These chemicals are classified as "persistent and toxic" and can last for decades in the human body. PFAS exposure can lower immunity, increase cholesterol levels and lead to obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease as well as lower fertility in women and men.
While researchers acknowledge that there is no indication that chemicals in the contact lenses are directly linked to any eye health issue or disease, they recommend if you wear contacts and are concerned about the chemical exposure, you should talk with your eye care provider and consider making the switch to glasses.
