How to Wear Contact Lenses

A Step-by-Step Guide and Important Precautions from Optic Pharm

How to Wear Contact Lenses: A Step-by-Step Guide and Important Precautions from Optic Pharm Wearing contact lenses offers convenience and clear vision, but it’s crucial to follow the right steps and take precautions to ensure your eyes remain healthy and comfortable. If you're new to wearing lenses, here's a simple guide inspired by Air Optix Plus Hydraglyde by Alcon, available at Optic Pharm.

4 Easy Steps to Wear Contact Lenses

  1. Wash Your Hands
     Before touching your contact lenses, always wash your hands with soap and water. Dry them with a lint-free towel. Clean hands help prevent any dust, dirt, or bacteria from transferring to your lenses.
  2. Scoop the Lens onto Your Finger
     Place the lens on the tip of your dry index finger. Check the orientation of the lens: it should form a perfect bowl shape. If the edges are flared out (like a plate), the lens is inside out. Flip it back to the correct shape before applying.

     A correct lens should have a smooth, rounded shape, while an inside-out lens will have flared edges.

     

  3. Pull Your Upper Eyelid
     Use your non-dominant hand to hold your upper eyelid steady, preventing blinking. With the same hand, gently pull down your lower eyelid using your middle finger to create space for the lens.
  4. Place the Contact Lens on Your Eye
     While holding your eyelids, gently place the contact lens on the white part of your eye. Once the lens touches your eye, release your eyelid and blink several times to help the lens settle in place.
  5. Repeat for the Other Eye
     Follow the same steps to insert the lens in your other eye. Consistency is important to avoid mixing up the lenses between your eyes, especially if your prescription varies between the left and right.

Precautions to Take While Wearing Contact Lenses

To maintain healthy eyes and enjoy a comfortable lens-wearing experience, follow these essential precautions:

  • Always Use Fresh Solution: Store your lenses in fresh contact lens solution every day. Never reuse old solution, as it can harbor bacteria and lead to infections.
  • Avoid Water Contact: Never let your contact lenses come into contact with water (tap water, swimming pools, etc.). Water can introduce harmful microorganisms that could infect your eyes.
  • Follow the Replacement Schedule: Whether you use daily, weekly, or monthly contact lenses, always adhere to the recommended replacement schedule. Wearing lenses longer than intended can increase the risk of eye infections.
  • Don’t Sleep with Your Lenses In: Unless specifically prescribed by your eye care professional, avoid sleeping with your contact lenses. Overnight wear can reduce the amount of oxygen reaching your cornea, leading to irritation or infections.
  • Keep Your Lenses Moist: If you wear your lenses for extended periods, use rewetting drops to keep them hydrated and comfortable. Dry lenses can cause discomfort and strain.

Bonus Tips for Comfort and Safety

  • Always use fresh contact lens solution, like Hydraglyde by Alcon, to store and clean your lenses.
  • Never let your lenses come into contact with water. Use only sterile solutions.
  • Follow your lens replacement schedule strictly. Whether you’re using daily, weekly, or monthly lenses, keeping up with the replacement ensures comfort and eye health.
  • Keep your lenses lubricated with rewetting drops, especially during extended wear.