Guide to Caring for your Contact Lenses

Contact lenses are a popular option for people who want to correct their vision without having to wear eyeglasses. They offer a more natural look and greater freedom of movement. However, it is important to take proper care of your contact lenses to ensure they are safe and effective. In this article, we will provide you with a guide to caring for your contact lenses.

Always Wash Your Hands Before Handling Your Contact Lenses

Before you handle your contact lenses, it is essential to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This will help to remove any bacteria or dirt that may be present on your hands. Dry your hands with a lint-free towel or paper towel to avoid transferring any lint or fibers to your lenses.

Use the Right Solution for Your Contact Lenses

Different types of solutions are available for cleaning and storing your contact lenses. It is important to use the solution recommended by your eye care professional. Using the wrong solution can lead to eye irritation, infections, and other complications.

Clean and Disinfect Your Contact Lenses Regularly

Cleaning and disinfecting your contact lenses is essential to remove any debris, bacteria, or other contaminants that may have accumulated on them. You should follow the cleaning and disinfecting instructions provided by your eye care professional.

Use a Contact Lens Case and Replace it Regularly

A contact lens case is essential to store your contact lenses safely. Make sure to use a clean, sterile contact lens case and replace it every three months. You should also clean your case regularly with contact lens solution and let it air dry.

Use a Travel Contact Lens Case

A travel contact lens case is a convenient way to give yourself the option of wearing eyeglasses or contact lenses. A travel contact lens case is designed to hold your contact lenses and a travel-sized contact solution bottle. Some travel contact lens cases, such as Oplee™ Travel Contact Lens Case, even include a built-in mirror and storage for your eyeglass case. 

It's important to note that you should never transfer contact solution from a large bottle to a smaller one. Doing so is not safe and could lead to an eye infection. So use a travel contact lens case that works with standard travel-sized (2 fl oz) contact solution bottles produced by most contact solution manufacturers. 

Avoid Wearing Your Contact Lenses in Water

It is essential to avoid wearing your contact lenses in water, including swimming pools, hot tubs, and showers. This is because contact lenses are made of porous materials that can absorb liquids, including water. When contact lenses absorb water, they can swell and change shape, causing discomfort, blurred vision, and even damage to the eye. Additionally, water can contain harmful microorganisms that can adhere to the surface of contact lenses and cause eye infections. 

Replace Your Contact Lenses According to the Recommended Schedule

Your eye care professional will provide a recommended replacement schedule for contact lenses. It is important to follow this schedule to ensure that your contact lenses are safe and effective.

Avoid Sleeping in Your Contact Lenses

Unless your contact lenses are approved for extended wear, sleeping in your contact lenses can lead to serious eye complications, including infections and corneal ulcers. Sleeping in contact lenses can also cause the lenses to dry out and become more prone to tears or breakage. Therefore, it is important to remove your contact lenses before going to bed and follow the recommended schedule for replacement.

Avoid Using Expired Contact Lenses

Expired contact lenses can become dry and brittle, making them more likely to break or tear. They can also lead to serious eye infections. Always check the expiration date of your contact lenses before using them.

Have Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are important to monitor the health of your eyes and ensure that your contact lenses are working properly. Your eye care professional can also provide you with tips on caring for your contact lenses and addressing any issues that may arise.

In conclusion, caring for your contact lenses is essential to ensure they are safe and effective. Follow the tips outlined in this article to keep your contact lenses clean and clear. If you experience any issues with your contact lenses, contact your eye care professional immediately.