Protein Buildup in Eyes

Protein buildup is a typical problem with soft and tough contact lenses. Accumulation can typically be seen through white or cloudy marks on the surface of the contact lens, which causes blurred vision and pain. With proper care and use of contact lenses, protein accumulation can be managed.

protein buildup in eyes

Causes

Protein deposits that are visible to the naked eye are most often an outcome of denaturation. While even a visibly clean lens may still have protein deposits, just denatured deposits increase the possibility of clinical symptoms related to contact lens deposits. As such, denatured protein on the contact lens surface area can lead to negative changes in optical properties along with increased potential for ocular responses. It stands to factor that the physiological responses resulting from denatured protein can have a negative effect on lens wearer success and can drive patients to leave of contact lens wear.

Prevention

Actively Cleanse Contacts With Saline Solution

Despite the fact that most soft contact solutions advertise a no-rub formula, contacts that are prone to protein buildup need active rubbing. After getting rid of each contact lens, location it in the palm of your hand and fill it will a saline option purchased specially for lenses. Rub the contact lens on each side for 5 to 10 seconds and place it in a contact lens case with fresh saline solution. When cleaning the lenses before insertion, also use fresh option.

What Causes Protein Buildup in Eyes

Use Eyedrops Daily

Eyedrops are not exclusively for remoisturizing contacts; they are likewise used to clean them during day-to-day use. Eyedrops made for contact lenses eliminate protein buildup and keep your lenses sanitary through extended use.

Change Contacts Regularly

A lot of soft contact lenses are suggested for day-to-day, biweekly or regular monthly use. For lens users having continuous and repetitive problem with protein deposits, everyday lenses may be a service. Before changing your contact brand, though, guarantee you are abiding by suggested use amount of time. The longer lenses are used, the greater the risk of protein accumulation and infections to the cornea, which can permanently damage eye tissue.

See also: Daily Disposable Contact Lenses

Consider Hydrogen Solutions

Build up of protein in eyes can be reduced with frequent and correct use of the solution. For those still not seeing the full effects of saline option, hydrogen services are offered to provide a more thorough clean. These items offer a specialized case that includes a platinum coating, assisting to break down the hydrogen molecules so you can then position the contacts in your eyes without burning them. This active cleanse have to take place over at least six hours, according to many makers, but it uses a micro-filtered convenience level not discovered with saline services.

Protein Buildup in Eyes: FAQ

How do you get rid of protein build up in your eyes?

As we mentioned before, the main solution to protein deposit deposits in your eyes is proper use of contact lenses:

  • Changing lenses in a timely manner;
  • Using a quality solution to store your lenses;
  • you may have to switch to daily replacement lenses if the protein deposits continue.

What does protein buildup on contacts look like?

Protein buildup looks like white or cloudy marks/stains on contact lenses. It is because of these buildups that a person has poorer vision in their lenses and can generally ruin their vision due to constant stress.

Reyus Mammadli/ author of the article

I’m the author and editor of this health blog, active since 2008. With a background in medical and biotechnical devices, I focus on making health and self-care topics—especially in ophthalmology—clear and accessible.

Although I’m not a licensed physician, I’ve spent over 15 years working with medical literature and guidelines, with particular attention to trusted ophthalmic sources such as the American Academy of Ophthalmology, National Eye Institute, and PubMed. I also follow the latest updates in diagnostics and treatment technologies.

My aim is to help readers better understand eye diseases, tests, and treatment options—so they can feel more confident when consulting a doctor.

Note: This blog does not provide medical diagnoses or treatments. It offers clear, reliable health information to support informed conversations with healthcare professionals.