What Are PFAS, Really?
Contact lenses are a wonderful option for kids with myopia—not only do they correct vision, but certain lenses also help slow down the progression of nearsightedness. This can lower the risk of serious eye diseases later in life, and daily or overnight lenses offer a huge lifestyle benefit: freedom to play sports, run around at recess, and simply enjoy being a kid—without worrying about glasses.
But with recent headlines about “forever chemicals” (PFAS) found in some soft contact lenses, many parents are asking: Are contact lenses safe for my child to wear?
Let’s break it all down and separate fact from fear. What exactly are PFAS?
What Are PFAS—and Why Are They in Contact Lenses?
PFAS (short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are man-made chemicals used in things like nonstick pans, waterproof clothing, and food wrappers because they resist water, oil, and heat. That same quality is why tiny amounts may be found in some soft contact lenses—it helps make them more breathable and comfortable to wear.
Recently, a third-party study found traces of fluorine (a PFAS marker) in some soft lenses, which sparked concern. You can read our summary of this study here. But here’s what you should know:
These lenses are still considered safe by the FDA and manufacturers.
There’s no known health risk from wearing contact lenses with PFAS.
Lenses are worn for just a few hours each day and don’t get absorbed like food or water.
There are many types of PFAS, and not all of them are harmful. So far, research does not show any danger from the materials used in contact lenses.
Are Soft Daily Disposable Lenses a Concern?
Most kids who wear soft contact lenses for myopia management use daily disposables—lenses that are worn for a single day and then thrown away.
From a safety standpoint, this is actually very reassuring:
The lens is only on the eye for about 10–16 hours.
It is not ingested or absorbed through the skin.
Your child’s tears, blinking, and natural defenses help protect the eye.
The lens material is designed to be stable, and undergoes rigorous FDA approval.
Even studies that tested for fluorine in lenses did not demonstrate harm—they simply raised awareness that trace amounts of fluorinated compounds were present.
There’s no peer-reviewed evidence suggesting these lenses pose a health risk.
What About Arizona Heat? Could PFAS Leak in High Temperatures?
We get it—Arizona summers are no joke. But the good news is, contact lenses are built to handle it.
A study presented by CooperVision exposed contact lenses to extreme heat (113°F for 3 months) and freezing cold (-58°F for 72 hours). The results? No changes to the lens materials or safety.
Plus, lenses come in sealed, sterile packaging that protects them during shipping and storage. So even in our summer heat, there’s no evidence that PFAS or other compounds leach out of the lenses—especially not during short, daily wear.
What About Ortho-K Lenses?
If your child wears ortho-k lenses (overnight contact lenses that gently reshape the cornea while they sleep), you can feel confident about safety on this front as well.
These lenses are made from a material called paflufocon D, which contains fluorine but is not classified as a PFAS by the U.S. EPA. The material is a stable, high-molecular-weight fluoropolymer that doesn’t break down or leach like the smaller PFAS compounds being discussed in the media.
Ortho-k lenses have been safely used for decades and are approved for myopia management in children. They’re worn overnight and removed during the day—minimizing any environmental exposure or concern.
Final Thoughts for Parents
It’s completely normal to feel concerned when news about chemicals and children’s products hits the headlines. But it’s also important to remember:
Contact lenses—especially daily disposables—are heavily regulated for safety.
Exposure time is minimal, and the risk of harm is currently unsupported by any clinical evidence.
If you’d prefer to explore non-soft lens options, ortho-k is a safe, effective alternative.
At Innovative EyeCare, we’re here to answer your questions and guide you to the best, safest solutions for your child’s long-term vision. Book a consultation for further exploration on myopia control treatment options for your child.
