Contacts can be incredibly convenient to wear, but, if handled improperly, can lead to eye problems. Here are a few tips to ensure that you get the most wear out of your contacts while keeping them clean and your eyes healthy.
Replace your contact lenses according to schedule
Contacts gradually degrade over time, so even if you think you can save money by stretching your lenses past the recommended changing date, it doesn’t really pay off. You can always buy a new pair of contacts, but if you suffer health implications from old lenses, you can’t buy another pair of eyes.
Sometimes, solution can be the problem.
It’s important to use fresh solution before and after each wearing session. Not replacing the solution after each use can cause deposits of protein or cholesterol to build up on the lens surface, leading to discomfort when wearing the lenses.
Wear your glasses when cleaning the lenses.
Being able to see clearly when cleaning your contacts means that you’re better able to see and manipulate the lens during the cleaning process. You’ll also be able to see any visible foreign matter (such as eyelashes) that may have fallen on the lens.
Put in your contacts before putting on your face.
Not only will putting makeup on be easier once you’re able to see clearly, but you eliminate the risk of getting mascara or eyeliner on the lenses if you put them in first.
Make sure your hands are clean before handling the lenses.
It doesn’t mean much to clean your lenses thoroughly with solution if your fingertips are dirty when handling them. Scrub the full surface of your fingertips with an unfragranced anti-bacterial hand wash to maintain the sterility of the lenses before wearing or storing them.
When in doubt, take them out.
If anything feels off or uncomfortable when wearing your contacts, the best idea is to take them out as soon as you have the chance. Inspect and clean them and irrigate your naked eye with eye drops while blinking before putting the lenses back in. If your eyes still feel irritated, refrain from wearing the lenses again until you can talk with your optometrist.
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