Whether knowingly or unknowingly, it is a common fact that most people who use contact lenses are unaware of how to utilize them and take care of them appropriately. Contact lenses can be a convenient option for those who need vision correction but understanding how to take care of them is an essential part of contact lens usage. Proper care can eliminate the risk of eye infections and can also improve the longevity of your lenses.
For those who lead busy lifestyles, daily disposable lenses can be a great option. These lenses eliminate the need for cleaning and storage and can save you time and effort for when you are on the go.
Practicing proper lens care is essential not only for maintaining the proper function of your lenses but also for maintaining the health of your eyes.
The Do’s of Wearing Contact Lenses
- Do wash your hands
Before handling your lenses, make sure that you wash your hands thoroughly with water and soap and dry them properly thereafter. Doing so will reduce the chances of infection and irritation.
- Do replace your lenses according to the schedule given by the manufacturer
It is never advisable to wear your contact lenses beyond the duration prescribed by your doctor or the manufacturer of the lenses. Dispose of your lenses after the appropriate duration to maintain eye health and comfort.
- Do clean your lenses are every use
If you have extended wear lenses, remember to clean them and store them using contact lens solution. This will wash away any dirt, debris or microorganisms that have accumulated on your lenses. Not cleaning your lenses can result in irritation and infections due to the presence of these irritants.
- Do remove your lenses before showering or swimming
It is not recommended to leave your lenses in your eyes while showering or swimming. Doing so increases the chances of infection and can cause the shape of the lenses to warp and the lenses could also stick to your eyes.
- Do carry a pair of glasses with you
It is a good idea to carry a pair of glasses with you even if you have contacts in your eyes. This makes it convenient for you to swap out your lenses in case you experience any discomfort.
The Don’ts of Wearing Contact Lenses
- Don’t rub your eyes while wearing contact lenses
Rubbing your eyes with your lenses in can cause irritation, displace the lenses or cause damage to your cornea. If you experience irritation, take your contact lenses out of your eyes using clean hands.
- Don’t wear contact lenses that have not been prescribed for you
It is always important to wear the right prescription. Never wear lenses that are not prescribed for you as this can also lead to discomfort and cause damage to your cornea.
- Don’t wash your contact lenses with water
Never wash your contact lenses with water as water contains microorganisms that can cause infections. Instead, always opt for contact lens solutions that contain cleaning agents and preservatives to clean your lens and to store them.
- Don’t allow your makeup to come into contact with your lenses
It is not a good idea to allow makeup to come into contact with your lenses as this could spread the makeup to your cornea and result in irritation. Always make sure to insert your contacts into your eyes before you wear any eye makeup and make sure to keep your eyes closed when using sprays or makeup near your eyes.
- Don’t reuse contact lens solution
Every time you store your lenses, always make sure to use fresh contact lens solution. This is to ensure that the components of the lens solution still remain effective at doing their job of cleaning your lenses and preserving them from contamination by microorganisms. Read our article on contact lens solutions to learn how to use them properly.
By following these do’s and don'ts of proper lens care and usage, you can wear your lenses with the utmost comfort and avoid the painful and unwanted side effects of improper usage. If you are looking for more tips on proper contact lens usage, read our article to learn how to get used to your contact lenses for beginners. Always consult with your optometrist or eye doctor if you experience discomfort or unusual symptoms.