How Often Should I Change My Contact Lenses?
There are countless types of contact lenses available on the market for a range of eye conditions, with varied specifications, replacement instructions and unique features. The choices can be overwhelming for the average contact lens user and information regarding replacement schedules can sometimes be confusing.
Our definitive guide to contact lens replacement is a great resource for those who want to learn about correct contact lenses usage and replacement.
Types of Contact Lenses Based on Replacement Schedule
Daily Disposable Lenses
Daily disposable lenses are lenses that have to be discarded after one day of wear. We don’t recommend re-wearing these single use lenses as they can cause complications like irritation and infection. Daily lenses are a convenient choice and require no maintenance. Individuals with sensitive eyes that are prone to irritation are good candidates for these lenses.
Weekly Lenses
As the name suggests, weekly lenses are meant to be discarded after one week of use. These lenses are meant to be removed at the end of the day, cleaned and reworn the next day, for up to seven consecutive days. Learn how to clean and disinfect your contact lenses using lens solution by reading our contact lens cleaning guide.
Bi-weekly Lenses
Bi-weekly lenses can be worn for up-to two weeks, after which you need to discontinue use and dispose of them. These lenses also need to be cleaned and stored in a lens solution after each use.
Monthly Lenses
Monthly lenses are a good choice for those who don’t have any issues or sensitivity associated with rewearing lenses. These lenses can be used consecutively for up to 30 days. Keep in mind that unless they are specified as “extended wear” lenses, you need to remove them each night, clean, and then store them in a lens solution. Extended wear lenses can be worn continuously from 7 days up to 30 days, even during sleep.
What Happens If You Wear Contact Lenses Beyond the Replacement Date?
Not disposing of your contact lenses at the right time can result in discomfort or eye infections. In fact, research into the matter suggests that around 50% of biweekly lens wearers fail to replace their lenses at the recommended time. Failure to replace your lenses at the right time can affect the performance of the lenses, and consequently, your vision. You also increase the chances of contamination of the lenses.
At Adasat, our optometrists and eye care experts in Dubai always encourage our customers to adhere to the recommendations provided by their doctor and the instructions given by the manufacturer.
Here are 5 Signs that it's Time to Replace Your Lenses!
Discomfort or Irritation
Wearing contact lenses for a prolonged period of time can cause the build-up of protein, bacteria and other kinds of debris on the lenses. This can cause irritation, especially if you have sensitive eyes that are prone to infections. At the first sign of discomfort, we recommend that you remove your lenses and contact your eye care provider.
Damaged Lenses
If you notice any damage to your lenses like dents or scratches, do not insert them into your eyes. Damaged lenses can allow the passage of harmful bacteria or cause irritation to the cornea due to the irregular shape. Promptly dispose of all damaged contacts. The same applies to any cloudiness. If you notice that your lenses are not as clear as they used to be, we recommend that you replace the pair.
Check the Replacement Schedule
Like we explained earlier, the replacement schedule is the most obvious indicator of when you need to replace your lenses. Always follow the instructions of your eye doctor and dispose of your lenses once they are past the recommended time frame.
Check the Expiry Date of the Lenses
In addition to a replacement date, the lens packaging might also feature an expiry date. We recommend that you note the expiry date at the time of purchase so that you can use the product well before it expires. Manufacturers provide an expiry date because the saline solution that preserves the lenses can deteriorate over time. Do not use expired lenses even if the package has not been opened.
Check the Expiry Date of Your Prescription
It is recommended that you get your eyes tested and get an updated prescription once a year or at least every two years. Keep this in mind when you are buying contact lenses for future use. Wearing contacts of the wrong prescription can cause damage to your eyesight. Learn how to read your prescription here.
Purchase Daily Disposable Lenses, Weekly Lenses and Monthly Lenses in Dubai from Adasat
When you purchase contact lenses from our online store, you will be able to clearly identify the key features, product specifications and most importantly the replacement schedule for every single contact lens product. Shop medical lenses and branded eyewear online on adasat.com and get it delivered anywhere in the UAE, KSA and GCC.