Contact lenses are a game-changer, right? They free you from the hassle of glasses, giving you clear vision without the frames getting in the way. But here’s the deal-contact lenses need some serious TLC (tender loving care). Since your eyes are super sensitive to bacteria, germs, and viruses, taking proper care of your lenses isn’t optional-it’s essential.
If you want to keep your eyes healthy and your lenses working like a dream, there are some rules you just can’t ignore. Let’s break it down.
Dos of Contact Lens Care
- Always Wash Your Hands
This might seem like a no-brainer, but it’s the most crucial step. Always wash your hands with soap and water before handling your contact lenses. Clean hands mean less chance of nasty bacteria getting into your eyes and causing infections. - Stick to the Expiry Date
Your lenses aren’t meant to last forever. Follow the replacement schedule given by your eye care professional or the manufacturer. Trying to stretch their life could lead to contaminate the lenses and cause infections or irritation-not worth the risk! - Clean Your Lenses Daily
Lenses collect proteins, oils, and other debris throughout the day. Use a lens cleaning solution (never water!) to clean and disinfect them every day. Just rub, rinse, and store in fresh solution. - Replace Your Lens Case Regularly
Your lens case can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Make it a habit to change your lens case every three months and wash it with soap and warm water Always completely dry the case before storing your lenses. - Remove Lenses Before Sleeping
Unless you’re wearing extended-wear lenses designed for overnight use (designed to wear during sleeping hours at night- it is also known as Ortho K lenses), always take them out before bed. Your eyes need oxygen, and sleeping in lenses can increase the risk of infections. - Get Regular Eye Exams
Seeing an eye doctor regularly helps ensure your lenses are still working well for you. It’s also an opportunity to check your overall eye health, which can detect other potential issues early on. - Carry a Spare
It’s always smart to have a backup-whether it’s an extra pair of lenses or a spare set of glasses. If something goes wrong with your lenses, you’ll be glad you planned ahead.
Don’ts of Contact Lens Care
- Don’t Wear Lenses Too Long
Wearing contact lenses for too long (more than 8 hours, generally) can block oxygen to your eyes. This is especially true for daily disposables that are meant for single use. Stick to the recommended wear time to avoid discomfort and eye problems. - Don’t Use Expired Lenses or Solutions
Expired lenses and solutions can be less effective or even harmful. Always check the expiration date and never use products that have passed their prime. - Don’t Reuse Old Solution
Topping off or reusing old solution is a big no-no. Fresh solution is key to keeping your lenses clean. Also, if your lenses have been sitting in their case for over seven days, be sure to clean twice or trice and refresh/shake the solution before using them. - Don’t Wear Lenses in Water
Whether you’re swimming, showering, or even in the ocean-water and contact lenses don’t mix. Water will introduce harmful bacteria to your lenses, leading to infections. - Don’t Ignore Discomfort
If your lenses start to feel uncomfortable, red, or irritated, remove them right away. Discomfort is often a sign that something is wrong. It’s best to consult your eye doctor if the issue persists. - Don’t Share Your Lenses
Contact lenses are personal. Sharing lenses means sharing bacteria, which could lead to infections or worse. Always use your own lenses, tailored to your prescription. - Don’t Use Non-Approved Eye Drops
Not all eye drops are safe for contact lens wearers. Only use those that are specifically approved by your eye doctor to avoid damaging your contact lenses or irritating your eyes.
Taking care of your contact lenses doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require some discipline. By sticking to these do’s and don’ts, you can keep your eyes healthy and your lenses in top shape. Your eyes are precious, so make sure you give them the care they deserve!