Contact lenses are a convenient alternative to glasses for people with refractive errors. Yet, wearers must follow proper care guidelines to avoid infection, discomfort, and other eye problems. Are you considering switching to contacts? If so, consider these essential tips for keeping your contact lenses clean and comfortable.

Wash Your Hands Before Handling Your Lenses

Having clean hands is the foundation of contact lens care. Ensure your hands are clean before touching your lenses. Cleaning will help you avoid transferring bacteria, oil, and dirt to your lenses and eyes. 

Use Recommended Contact Lens Solution

The contact lens solution is crucial to cleaning and disinfecting your lenses. Use only the solution recommended by your eye care professional. There are many solutions available, each having a different formulation that may not be compatible with your lenses or eyes. Never use water or saliva to clean your lenses. These substances can harbor bacteria and damage your lenses.

Clean Your Lenses and Case Daily

Cleaning your lenses and case daily is essential for preventing infection and keeping your lenses comfortable. Follow your contact lens solution instructions to clean and disinfect your lenses. 

Always rinse them thoroughly with fresh solution before wearing them. Also, clean your lens case daily with the solution and let it air dry. It is best to replace it every three months to prevent bacteria buildup.

Handle Your Lenses Carefully

Contact lenses are delicate and can easily tear or become misshapen if handled roughly. Use your fingertips to handle them to avoid damaging your lenses. Avoid using sharp objects or your fingernails. Also, be gentle when inserting and removing them to prevent them from scratching your eyes or getting stuck.

Avoid Wearing Lenses Longer Than Recommended

Wearing contact lenses longer than recommended can lead to eye irritation, infection, and corneal damage. Follow your eye doctor's instructions and avoid sleeping in your lenses unless specifically instructed. If you experience discomfort or redness while wearing your lenses, remove them immediately and call your eye doctor.

Protect Your Lenses From Water

Water contains harmful bacteria and can cause severe eye infections if it comes into contact with your lenses. Avoid wearing your lenses while swimming, showering, or participating in water activities. If water gets into your eyes while wearing them, remove them immediately and disinfect them with a fresh solution before wearing them again.

Avoid Using Expired Lenses or Solutions

Expired solutions may not effectively clean and disinfect your lenses. They may even cause eye irritation or infection. Always check the expiration date of your solution and your lenses before using them. Moreover, replace them promptly when they expire.

Schedule Regular Eye Examinations

Routine eye exams are essential for maintaining good eye health and ensuring your contact lens prescription is up-to-date. Your eye doctor can also check the fit and condition of your lenses and provide advice on proper lens care. Be sure to follow your eye doctor's recommendations and ask any questions you have about contact lens care.

Conclusion

Proper contact lens care is essential for maintaining good eye health and comfort. Following the tips here can help prevent infection, irritation, and other eye problems. You will also enjoy the benefits of clear and comfortable vision. 
 

For more on contact lens care, visit Today's Vision at our office in Laguna Niguel, California. Please call (949) 518-0055  to discuss any questions with our team of experts or to schedule an appointment today.