Distilled Water vs. Contact Solution: Understanding pH Balance and Eye Safety

In the world of lashes, we’re constantly reminded how sensitive the eye area is—and with good reason. Whether you’re cleansing lashes, prepping the skin, or simply trying to soothe irritation, what you use matters. A question that often pops up is: should we use distilled water or contact solution when working around the eyes? So, we interviewed an ophthalmologist to get the facts straight—especially when it comes to pH balance.

Let’s break it down.

What is pH and Why Does It Matter for the Eyes?

pH measures how acidic or basic a substance is, on a scale from 0 to 14. A neutral pH is 7.0—right where distilled water consistently sits. The natural pH of the eye’s tear film hovers around 7.0 to 7.4, which means maintaining that balance is crucial to avoid irritation, redness, or discomfort.

When we disrupt that natural pH, even slightly, it can cause stinging, dryness, or reactions that could compromise lash retention or a client’s overall comfort during services.

 

 

Distilled Water: A Consistent Neutral

Distilled water is pure, filtered water that has had all minerals, impurities, and additives removed. According to the ophthalmologist we consulted, distilled water’s pH is stable at 7.0, making it a neutral and predictable option when needing to gently rinse or cleanse around the eyes.

That consistency is key—it reduces the risk of unexpected irritation from fluctuating acidity or additives that may be present in other solutions.

 

Contact Solution: Variable and Formulated for Lenses

Contact solution is specifically designed to clean and store lenses, not for direct application to the skin or lashes. Its pH range typically falls between 6.8 and 8.0, depending on the brand and formulation. While that range is technically close to neutral, it’s not always stable or consistent across products. Some formulas include preservatives, surfactants, or moisturizers that can affect how the skin or lashes react—especially if used regularly in lash services.

Plus, most ophthalmologists agree: contact solution should only be used as directed—for contacts—not as a replacement for lash-safe solutions or proper rinsing techniques.

 

So, What’s Best in the Lash World?

For rinsing lashes, diluting cleanser, or rebalancing the eye area after prep—distilled water is your safest bet. Its pH closely matches the eye’s natural balance, and its purity ensures you’re not exposing your client to hidden irritants.

 

 

Bottom Line:

• Distilled Water: pH of 7.0, consistent and gentle, ideal for rinsing and cleansing.
• Contact Solution: pH range of 6.8–8.0, made for lenses—not skin or lashes—and can contain additives that aren’t lash-safe.

By choosing distilled water, you’re not just being cautious—you’re prioritizing eye health, comfort, and lash longevity.

Would you like a shorter Instagram caption version or any visuals to go with this blog?

Perfect—here’s the revised blog post with a focus specifically on washing lashes:

 

Should You Use Distilled Water or Contact Solution to Wash Lashes? Here’s What an Ophthalmologist Says

When it comes to lash care, how you wash matters just as much as what you use. One question that pops up often—especially among lash artists and clients who want to maintain retention—is whether distilled water or contact solution is better for washing lashes.

So, we asked an ophthalmologist—and the answer is clear.

 

Understanding pH Balance in Lash Washing

Your eyes have a natural pH between 7.0 and 7.4, meaning they’re happiest when you’re using products that don’t throw off that delicate balance. Even minor pH shifts can cause irritation, dryness, or watery eyes—which in turn can weaken your bond and hurt retention.

 

Distilled Water: Pure & Consistent

Distilled water has a stable, neutral pH of 7.0, making it the closest match to your eye’s natural environment. It’s free from minerals, chlorine, and additives, which means there’s nothing in it that could irritate the eyes or interfere with adhesive.

That’s why distilled water is a top choice for:

• Rinsing lash shampoo during washes
• Diluting lash cleansers for sensitive clients
• Maintaining optimal retention by avoiding eye irritation

According to the ophthalmologist we spoke with, distilled water is the safest option for regular lash cleansing because of its consistent pH and lack of potentially harmful ingredients.

 

Contact Solution: Not Meant for Lashes

Contact solution is great—for contacts. But for lashes? Not so much. While some assume it’s eye-safe and therefore lash-safe, that’s not the case.

Contact solutions typically have a pH range of 6.8 to 8.0, depending on the brand. And they often contain:

• Preservatives
• Moisturizers
• Surfactants

These ingredients are meant to clean and store lenses, not cleanse lashes or remove buildup from extensions. Using contact solution for lash washing may lead to unexpected irritation, sticky residue, or even buildup that affects lash retention.

Final Verdict: Distilled Water Wins

For lash artists and clients alike, distilled water is the gold standard when it comes to washing lashes. It’s gentle, predictable, and keeps the pH of the eye balanced—helping lashes last longer and feel more comfortable.

When in doubt, keep it clean, pure, and simple: go with distilled.