New to Contact Lenses? 4 Easy Steps to Insert and Remove Your Lenses with Confidence

Contact lens application and removal should be thoroughly followed to ensure a smooth and proper process that is comfortable to the user. There are few aspects that should be paid attention to when applying and removing contact lenses daily. Here are 4 essential tips you need to know during both processes as a contact lens user.

Contact Lens Tips #1: Wash Your Hands

The simple act of washing and drying your hands is a critical step. This is key in maintaining both personal hygiene and eye health particularly when dealing with contact lenses application and removal. Washing your hands before touching your lenses is essential. This will prevent the transfer of any particles, dirt or even microorganisms that may cause eye infections or discomfort.

Begin by thoroughly washing your hands with soap and water. Use warm water and soap and you should scrubb all parts of your hands for at least 20 seconds. Always prioritise cleaning under your fingernails and between your fingers which is where germs can often hide. This process will help to eliminate any potential contaminants that could adhere to your lenses.

Rinsing thoroughly is just as important as washing. Remaining soap on your hands can transfer to your contact lenses and cause eye irritation. Once you’ve rinsed your hands completely, it is crucial to dry them with a clean towel. The moisture from your hands can mix with your lenses. This can potentially introduce bacteria or cause your lenses to adhere incorrectly to your eyes.

Additionally you can also opt to use a lint-free towel as it ensures that no fibres stick to your fingers. This reduces the chances of which it could then transfer to your contact lenses. Paper towels can be a good alternative as it is clean and disposable which is helpful in reducing the risk of contamination. Neglecting this step can lead to serious consequences such as eye infections and irritation.

In addition to preventing infections, clean hands also contribute to the longevity and comfort of your contact lenses. Oils and dirt can cause lenses to deteriorate faster; thus, leading to frequent replacements and additional costs.

Overall, washing and drying your hands is a small but crucial habit that plays a significant role in ensuring the health of your eyes and the effectiveness of your contact lenses. Making this a consistent practice helps protect against infections, enhances comfort and promotes better eye care.

Contact Lens Tips #2: Thoroughly Check Lens

Checking your contact lenses before application is a crucial step in ensuring eye health and comfort. This simple but important process is helpful when it comes to avoiding potential issues such as discomfort, irritation or infection.

Once your hands are clean, carefully remove the lens from its case using your fingertips while making sure to avoid contact with your nails to prevent the lens from potentially tearing or getting damaged. Hold the lens on the tip of your index finger and examine it closely. Be on the lookout for any signs of damage such as tears, dents or scratches. Minor imperfections can cause discomfort or harm your eyes. If the lens is damaged, it is better to discard it and use a new one.

Next, check if the lens is inside out. A lens that is inside out will not fit properly on your eye and it may be a reason that leads to discomfort and blurry vision. To check, place the lens on your fingertip and hold it up to the light. The lens should form a perfect cup shape with the edges straight up. If the edges flare out, it means the lens is inside out. Additionally, ensure the lens is clean. Rinse it with fresh lens solution to remove any debris or residue. Avoid using tap water as it contains impurities that can potentially harm your eyes.

By taking the time to check your lens thoroughly, you tend to protect your eyes from potential harm alongside ensuring a comfortable wearing experience. This routine step enhances the longevity and effectiveness of your contact lenses; therefore, contributing to better overall eye health.

Contact Lens Tips #3: Lens Positioning and Application

Positioning contact lenses correctly on the eye is crucial for both comfort and proper vision. Start by washing and drying your hands properly to avoid transferring any dirt or bacteria to the contact lenses. Make sure you are at a will lit area as this helps ensure better visibility and control during the application process. You can place the lens on the tip of the index finger of your dominant hand and make sure that it is correctly oriented in which edges should curve inwards. Use your other hand to hold your upper eyelid open which is crucial in preventing any involuntary blinking that could disrupt the entire process. Simultaneously, use your middle finger of the dominant hand to gently pull down the lower eyelid which helps in creating enough space for the lens to be placed without any restrictions.

Additionally, focus on positioning the lens accurately. It helps to look upward or sideways instead of directly at the lens. This makes it easier to place the lens; therefore, reducing the likelihood of discomfort during and after application. Slowly bring the lens close to your eye while keeping your hand steady. Once the lens touches the eye, it should adhere naturally due to the moisture present. Release your eyelids slowly and this will allow the lens to settle into place. Blink a few times to help the lens centre itself on the cornea.

If the lens feels uncomfortable or appears blurry upon application, there is a chance that it is not centred correctly. In this case, gently massage your closed eyelid or use your clean fingertip to adjust the position of the lens. It’s important to remain calm and patient throughout the process especially if you are new to wearing contact lenses. With ample practice, applying contact lenses correctly will become a quicker and more intuitive part of your daily routine over time. Ensuring proper positioning is key to achieving the best visual clarity and comfort; therefore, ultimately enhancing your overall experience as a contact lens user.

Contact Lens Tips #4: Lens Removal

Removing contact lenses is a process that becomes quick and effortless provided that proper techniques are used. Start by washing and drying your hands thoroughly to prevent the transfer of any dirt, oils and bacteria into your eyes. It is very important to do this in a well-lit area with a mirror to clearly see what you are doing. Blink a few times to ensure your eyes are adequately moistened as this makes the process of removing the lens a tad more easier. Use your non-dominant hand to hold your upper eyelid open so as to preventing any involuntary blinking that may happen. Use the middle finger of your dominant hand to pull down your lower eyelid as this aids in creating space to access the lens.

To remove the lens, look upward and gently slide the lens down to the white part of your eye using your index finger. This step is vital as it makes it easier to pinch the lens without causing any sort of discomfort to your eyes. Use your thumb and index finger to softly pinch the lens’s edges together which will then create a fold. Once again, be careful and avoid using your nails to prevent the lens from tearing upon contact or scratching your eye. Carefully lift the lens away from the eye. You can blink a few times to make your eyes more lubricated. This may ease the removal process.

After removal, carefully inspect the lens for any damage or debris before placing it in its designated case. Clean the lens using fresh contact lens solution as per your eye care professional‘s instructions. Always store your lenses in a clean case with fresh solution to maintain their hygiene and effectiveness. Regularly clean and replace your lens case to prevent bacterial growth.

If you experience difficulty or discomfort during removal, take a break and try lubricating your eye with eye drops. With constant practice, removing contact lenses will eventually become a routine simple that you conduct day to day. Proper removal techniques help in maintaining eye health, comfort and the longevity of your lenses.

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