Making the switch to contact lenses is exciting and doesn’t need to be intimidating. If you know what to expect and how to care for your lenses, you’ll comfortably enjoy the freedom that comes from ditching your glasses. Know a few of the common mistakes new lens-wearers make so that you can avoid them for a seamless transition.

Common Mistakes Newbies Make With Contact Lenses

1. Sleeping in Lenses

Lenses block the oxygen flow to your eyes at night, and this could lead to dry eyes, irritation, and infection. Never wear contacts that aren’t designed for sleep, and only sleep in your extended wear lenses when necessary. Even extended wear lenses can cause irritation if worn regularly at night.

2. Forgetting to Wash & Dry Hands

Whenever you touch your contacts, you need your hands to be clean and dry. Hands easily pick up dirt or germs that can infect your eye. Once you’ve lathered your hands with an antiseptic soap, dry them thoroughly with a clean towel before putting the contacts in. A dry hand will make it easier to adhere your contact into your eye, as the lens sticks to moisture.

3. Using the Wrong Solution or Tap Water

You should select your solution depending on the type of lens you’re wearing. For example, a rigid lens will require a different solution than a gas permeable lens. Keep a spare bottle of solution on-hand in a contact lens case so you’ll never run out. Many people make the mistake of cleaning their lenses in tap water when they run out of solution. However, tap water is full of microscopic organisms or minerals that could cause serious infection or irritation.

If you’re thinking about getting contact lenses, visit the experienced team at Hawaii Vision Clinic in Kakaako and Aiea, HI. Ophthalmologist Dr. William K. Wong and his experienced staff offer a variety of vision services, including LASIK, eyelid surgery, pelleve wrinkle reduction, glaucoma treatments, and general ophthalmology exams. If you’d like a more permanent solution, call (808) 487-7938 to ask about their laser surgery options. Existing and new patients can send a message online to schedule an appointment.