Posted January 8, 2024
Contact lenses have become a popular alternative to traditional eyeglasses for millions of people around the world. They offer several advantages, such as improved peripheral vision and the freedom to engage in physical activities without worrying about glasses slipping or breaking. However, with great convenience comes the responsibility of proper care and maintenance. Neglecting contact lens care can lead to discomfort, infections, and reduced vision quality. In this blog, we will walk you through the essential steps to ensure your contact lenses remain comfortable and safe.
Before we dive into the specifics of contact lens care, it's crucial to have a basic understanding of the types of contact lenses and the various solutions available:
These are the most common type, made from a flexible, water-absorbing material. They are comfortable and suitable for daily wear.
These are harder, more durable lenses that allow oxygen to pass through. They offer sharp vision but may require an adjustment period.
Designed for overnight use, these lenses can be worn continuously for a specific period, usually up to 30 days.
These lenses are meant to be discarded daily, weekly, or monthly, reducing the need for cleaning and storage.
Used for rinsing and storing lenses. It does not clean or disinfect lenses.
Cleans, disinfects, and stores lenses. It's suitable for many soft contact lenses.
Provides deep cleaning and disinfection for both soft and RGP lenses but requires a specific cleaning and neutralising process.
Removes protein deposits from the lens, typically used weekly or as needed.
Proper handling is the first step in maintaining the hygiene of your contact lenses. Follow these steps to ensure a clean and safe lens-handling process:
1. Wash Your Hands: Before touching your contact lenses, thoroughly wash your hands with mild soap and rinse them well. Dry your hands with a lint-free towel to avoid transferring debris or soap residue to your lenses.
2. Use a Clean and Dry Surface: Find a flat, clean, and well-lit surface to work on. A bathroom or kitchen countertop is ideal. Make sure it's free from dust, debris, or any other potential contaminants.
3. Prepare the Supplies: Have your contact lens case, contact lens solution, and contact lenses ready before you start handling the lenses.
4. Remove One Lens at a Time: Always work with one lens at a time to prevent mix-ups. Use your dominant hand to hold the lens and your non-dominant hand to gently pull up your upper eyelid and lower eyelid with your middle finger.
5. Place the Lens in Your Palm: Carefully remove the lens from your eye and place it in the palm of your hand. Avoid using your fingernails or squeezing the lens.
6. Clean the Lens: Apply a few drops of the recommended multipurpose solution to the lens. Use your fingertip (not your fingernail) to gently rub the lens in a circular motion for about 20 seconds. This helps remove debris and buildup on the lens.
7. Rinse the Lens: Rinse the lens thoroughly with the same solution to remove the loosened debris and cleaning solution. Never use tap water to rinse your lenses, as it may contain harmful microorganisms.
8. Store the Lens: Place the clean lens in its designated compartment in the contact lens case, ensuring it is fully submerged in fresh contact lens solution. Repeat the process for the other lens if you wear two lenses.
Proper cleaning and maintenance of your contact lenses are essential to prevent infections and maintain the lenses' comfort. Here are the key steps to follow:
1. Regular Cleaning Schedule: Follow the recommended cleaning and replacement schedule provided by your eye care professional. This schedule may vary depending on the type of contact lenses you wear (daily, weekly, monthly).
2. Daily Cleaning Routine: If you wear reusable lenses, it's essential to clean them daily. After removing the lenses from your eyes, clean and disinfect them using multipurpose solution. Follow the steps mentioned in the previous section.
3. Weekly or Monthly Enzymatic Cleaning: To prevent protein deposits from building up on the lens, use enzymatic cleaner as directed by your eye care professional. This usually involves soaking your lenses in the cleaner once a week or as recommended.
4. Use Fresh Solution: Always use fresh contact lens solution when storing your lenses. Avoid reusing or topping off old solution as it may lead to lens contamination.
5. Replace Your Case Regularly: Your contact lens case should also be cleaned and replaced regularly to avoid bacterial growth. Rinse and air dry the case daily, and replace it every three months.
6. Avoid Water Exposure: Keep your contact lenses away from water sources, including swimming pools, hot tubs, and showers. Water may introduce harmful microorganisms to your lenses.
7. Handle Lenses with Care: Avoid using sharp objects, such as tweezers or pins, to handle your lenses. This can damage the lens or tear it.
Properly wearing and storing your contact lenses is crucial for your comfort and eye health. Follow these guidelines:
1. Inserting Lenses: To insert your contact lenses, make sure your hands are clean, and the lens is properly cleaned and rinsed. Gently place the lens on the tip of your index finger, use your other hand to hold your eyelids open, and insert the lens onto your eye's surface. Blink gently to center the lens on your eye.
2. Ensure Comfort: Your lenses should be comfortable and provide clear vision. If you experience discomfort, redness, or vision problems, remove the lenses immediately and consult your eye care professional.
3. Avoid Overwear: Follow your eye care professional's recommendations for wearing schedule. Extended wear contact lenses are designed for continuous use but still have limits, so adhere to the recommended replacement and removal schedules.
4. Storing Your Lenses: When you're not wearing your lenses, store them in their contact lens case filled with fresh, approved contact lens solution. Never use homemade saline or tap water for storage.
Despite your best efforts, you may encounter common contact lens-related issues. Here's how to address them:
1. Dry Eyes: If you experience dry eyes while wearing your contact lenses, consider using lubricating eye drops specifically designed for contact lens wearers.
2. Discomfort or Irritation: Remove your lenses immediately if you experience discomfort or irritation. Inspect the lens for damage, debris, or warping. Clean and reinsert the lens if necessary. If the issue persists, consult your eye care professional.
3. Redness and Infection: Redness, pain, or discharge may indicate an eye infection. Remove your lenses immediately and seek prompt medical attention.
4. Torn or Damaged Lenses: If you notice a tear or damage to your contact lens, do not wear it. Discard the damaged lens and replace it with a new one.
5. Lens Deposits: Protein deposits, lipid deposits, and debris can accumulate on your lenses. Regular cleaning and enzymatic cleaning should help reduce these deposits.
Caring for your contact lenses is a responsibility that should not be taken lightly. Proper contact lens care is essential for maintaining your eye health, comfort, and the longevity of your lenses. By following the steps outlined in this blog, you can enjoy the many benefits that contact lenses offer while minimising the risk of infections, discomfort, and other complications. Always consult your eye care professional for personalised advice and recommendations tailored to your specific needs. Remember, when it comes to contact lens care, diligence pays off in the form of healthy, happy eyes.
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