Millions of people need corrective lenses, and contact lenses are a popular choice. Available in an assortment of options, including ones that are made for dry eyes, new wearers can easily get used to wearing lenses. However, your eyes will need time to adjust. Here are a few helpful tips if you’ve just started wearing contacts.

A Beginner’s Guide to Wearing Contact Lenses

1. Practice

After reading the guide that comes in the package, practice putting on the lenses daily. Start with the same eye each time to avoid mixing up your lenses—if they’re each a different prescription. Use your pointer or middle-finger on your dominant hand to pick up the lens, making sure to examine it carefully for any damage. Use your free hand to hold your upper eyelid while pulling down your lower eyelid before inserting the lens in your eye. During the process, keep the edges turned up. 

2. Wash Your Hands Before Handling

Dirt and oils on your hands can lead to scratches on your cornea or damage to your contact lenses. Wash your hands thoroughly with a clear soap—one without moisturizers and other additives—before touching your lenses, and dry your hands with a clean towel or paper towel. Rinse completely to remove all soap residue from your hands, as this will help you avoid eye infections.

3. Clean your lenses

When wearing them, avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent cornea scratches. Lint or dirt underneath the lens can lead to infections, so it’s important to clean them. Using contact solution, disinfect multi-use contacts after you remove them, and rinse out the case frequently with fresh solution. Store your lenses in the unopened case they came in until you are ready to wear them, and avoid wearing disposable contacts after removing them. Never clean your contacts with impure tap water to avoid damaging them or dropping them down the drain.

Clear Vision Center in Brooklyn, NY, has been the area’s preferred optometrist for over 11 years. With a focus on quality care, they specialize in a host of optometry services, including vision tests for contact lenses and prescription glasses. They are committed to keeping their customers’ eyes in good condition. Visit their website or call (718) 771-0078 to learn more about their services.