Choosing the right contact solution can be hard! There are so many options, and it can be tricky to decide which one to pick.
Opti-Free Contact Solution and Biotrue Solution are two popular choices, but which one is right for you? Let’s compare them and find out.
At-a-Glance Summary
This article goes through the Opti-Free Contact Solution and Biotrue Solution brands. It discusses the two types of solutions offered by each brand, and it compares them to help you make an informed choice.
Opti-Free Contact Solution
Let’s start by looking at Opti-Free Contact Solution, which is made by Alcon. This brand offers two multi-purpose cleaning solutions: Opti-Free Replenish and Opti-Free Puremoist.
Opti-Free Replenish Multi-Purpose Solution
Opti-Free Replenish Multi-Purpose Disinfecting Solution simultaneously kills germs that can cause eye infections while its TearGlyde™ system helps keep lenses hydrated and comfortable throughout the day.
You can use it to clean, rinse, and store your contacts, hence the “multi-purpose” label. Replenish is particularly known for helping reduce protein deposits and other lens buildup.
Opti-Free PureMoist
Opti-Free PureMoist works similarly, but it promises all-day comfort. This formula uses Alcon’s HydraGlyde® Moisture Matrix to create a continuous cushion of moisture around your lenses. This helps them stay comfortable throughout the day.
It also has a barrier that protects against deposits and other build-up. This can help prevent your eyes from feeling gritty after several hours of wear.
Both solutions can be used on silicone hydrogel and soft contact lenses. Replenish is often preferred by wearers who notice more protein deposits or lens buildup over time. PureMoist is generally preferred for its moisturizing properties.
Biotrue Contact Solution
Now, let’s look at Biotrue by Bausch & Lomb. This brand also offers two contact lens solutions: Biotrue Multi-Purpose Solution and Biotrue Hydration PLUS Multipurpose Solution.
Biotrue Multi-Purpose Solution
You can use the Biotrue Multi-Purpose Solution to clean, disinfect, and store your contact lenses. The formula is pH-balanced to resemble natural tears and make wearing contacts easier on your eyes.
Because its pH balance is similar to that of natural tears, Biotrue may help reduce stinging and irritation associated with putting in contacts. It’s also recommended for people with allergies or sensitive eyes.
Biotrue® Hydration PLUS Multipurpose Solution
Like the regular Multipurpose Solution, the Hydration PLUS formula performs all the same basic functions. It cleans, disinfects, and stores contact lenses, and it offers up to 20 hours of hydration. The formula contains electrolytes and antioxidants to help hydrate your eyes, but the most important ingredient is extra hyaluronic acid.
What is hyaluronic acid, or HA? If you’re like me and you’ve spent more money on your skincare routine than you want to think about, you might be familiar with its uses as a facial moisturizer. It turns out that HA has similar effects in eye care.
HA is a substance that holds onto moisture, sort of like a sponge. When contact lens solution contains HA, the lenses soak up the solution’s moisture. This helps the lenses retain moisture throughout the day. Your tears won’t evaporate as quickly, and the lenses will cause less friction, leading to a smoother feel against your eyes.
At the same time, HA helps to block deposits of protein and other build-up on lenses, so you have fewer problems with grittiness, even after wearing your lenses for a few weeks.
Choosing Between Opti-Free Contact Solution and Biotrue
Both brands make solid contact lens solutions, but some options will work better for different people. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide which to choose:
Opti-Free Contact Lens Solutions
Best for: Wearers who want excellent cleaning performance or struggle with protein deposits and lens buildup.
Choose Opti-Free Replenish if you:
- Notice protein deposits or buildup on your lenses.
- Want extra cleaning performance while maintaining moisture.
Choose Opti-Free PureMoist if you:
- Have dry eyes.
- Wear your contacts for long days.
- Want longer-lasting moisture and comfort.
Biotrue Contact Lens Solutions
Best for: Wearers looking for comfortable everyday lens care with tear-inspired hydration.
Choose Biotrue Multi-Purpose Solution if you:
- Want a reliable everyday cleaning solution.
- Have sensitive eyes or seasonal allergies.
- Don’t typically struggle with lens dryness.
Choose Biotrue Hydration PLUS if you:
- Wear contacts for 12+ hours a day.
- Experience dryness late in the day.
- Want maximum hydration with hyaluronic acid.
If you have any questions about the best contact lens solution for you, reach out to your eye doctor.
Comparison Chart
| Feature | Opti-Free Replenish | Opti-Free PureMoist | Biotrue Multi-Purpose Solution | Biotrue Hydration PLUS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Alcon | Alcon | Bausch + Lomb | Bausch + Lomb |
| Best For | Protein deposits and long-wear lenses | Dry eyes and all-day comfort | Everyday wear and sensitive eyes | Maximum hydration and extended wear |
| Compatible Lenses | Soft contact lenses | Soft contact lenses | Soft contact lenses | Soft contact lenses |
| Primary Benefits | Cleans, disinfects, removes deposits, reconditions lenses | Cleans, disinfects, long-lasting moisture, helps prevent deposits | Cleans, disinfects, pH-balanced for comfort | Cleans, disinfects, enhanced hydration with hyaluronic acid |
| Moisture Technology | TearGlyde® Reconditioning System | HydraGlyde® Moisture Matrix | Tear-inspired pH-balanced formula | Hyaluronic acid, electrolytes & antioxidants |
| Who is the solution recommended for? | Lens wearers who notice protein buildup on their contacts | Contact lens wearers with dry eyes | Wearers looking for comfortable, everyday lens care | People who experience dryness later in the day or wear lenses for extended periods |
FAQs
How long should I leave my contacts in solution?
Most multipurpose contact lens solutions require lenses to soak for at least 6 hours or overnight to properly disinfect them. Be sure to follow the instructions listed on your specific solution; soaking times can vary by brand.
What can I use to clean my contacts if I ran out of contact solution?
Unfortunately, contact solution is the only safe choice. We recommend always keeping an extra bottle on hand for emergencies and a travel-sized bottle in your bag.
If you’re currently out of solution, it’s best to head out to a nearby store and grab a bottle. Or, you can order your solution online; EZContacts offers many different types of contact lens solution and quick shipping.
TL;DR
- Opti-Free and Biotrue are both well-known multipurpose contact solution brands.
- Opti-Free offers two types of solution: Replenish and PureMoist.
- Replenish is recommended for those who have frequent buildup on their contacts. PureMoist is a good choice for those who experience dry eye. Both offer solutions with extra moisturizing ingredients for dry eyes.
- Biotrue is pH-balanced to mimic your own tears and is often the best fit for people with allergies or sensitive eyes.
- Biotrue also has two types of solution: Biotrue multi‐purpose solution and Biotrue Hydration PLUS. The Hydration PLUS solution contains hyaluronic acid,
- Opti-Free and Biotrue can both work well for different types of contact lens users. If you have any questions about the best solution for you, reach out to your eye doctor.
Check out the contact lens solutions available on EZContacts here.
