Association Between Topical Retinol Use and Contact Lens Intolerance Among Young Adults

Abstract

Background: Topical retinol is commonly used by young adults for acne, pigmentation, and skin rejuvenation, while contact lens wear depends on a stable tear film and healthy ocular surface. Periocular application of retinol may expose the eyelid margin and tear film to active skincare ingredients, potentially contributing to tear film instability and contact lens discomfort. Objective: To assess the association between topical retinol use, contact lens intolerance, tear film stability, and ocular surface symptoms among young adult soft contact lens wearers. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study included 80 soft contact lens wearers aged 18–35 years. Participants were classified according to topical retinol exposure and assessed using a structured questionnaire, tear break-up time, Schirmer test, slit-lamp examination, and Ocular Surface Disease Index scoring. The association between retinol use and contact lens intolerance was analyzed using the chi-square test, while correlations between retinol exposure and ocular surface outcomes were assessed using Pearson correlation. Results: Contact lens intolerance was reported by 40 of 60 retinol users (66.7%) and 10 of 20 non-users (50.0%). Retinol users showed higher odds of intolerance, although the association was not statistically significant (OR = 2.00, χ² = 1.78, p = 0.182). Higher retinol-use frequency was associated with lower TBUT in the right eye (r = -0.35, p = 0.001) and left eye (r = -0.30, p = 0.007), while longer duration of retinol use correlated with higher OSDI scores (r = 0.55, p < 0.001). Schirmer values remained within the normal range. Conclusion: Topical retinol use, particularly frequent or prolonged exposure, was associated with reduced tear film stability and greater ocular surface symptom burden among young adult contact lens wearers.