10 Tips for Caring for Your Contact Lenses

Contact lenses can be a game-changer—offering freedom from frames and clear vision—but they do come with responsibilities. In this blog, we’re sharing easy, essential tips to help you care for your lenses and keep your eyes healthy.

1. Wash Your Hands Thoroughly

Make it a routine to wash your hands before every lens application or removal to maintain eye safety. Wash your hands with soap and water before handling your lenses, and dry them with a lint-free towel to prevent transferring dirt or oils onto the lenses. Avoid soaps with fragrances or moisturizers, as they can leave a residue on your fingers that transfers to your lenses, leading to discomfort or allergic reactions.

It may sound obvious, but this simple habit can significantly reduce your risk of eye infections. According to the CDC, proper hand hygiene is a key defense against contaminants that can compromise your eye health.

2. Clean Your Lenses Carefully

Use the recommended cleaning solution to gently rub and rinse your lenses. Avoid using tap water, as it may contain harmful microorganisms, such as Acanthamoeba, that can lead to severe eye infections. The rubbing action, even for 'no-rub' solutions, helps break down and remove protein deposits that form on the lenses.

Always use fresh contact lens solution for storage and cleaning; never reuse old solutions, even if they appear clean. A reused solution loses its disinfectant properties over time, making it less effective in keeping your lenses and eyes free from harmful microbes. Store your lenses in a case that has been cleaned with fresh solution to keep them sterile and reduce the risk of infection. 

3. Store Lenses in a Clean Case

Make sure your lens case is clean and dry. Replace the case every few months to prevent bacterial growth. A study by the British Contact Lens Association suggests that cases can accumulate bacteria if not maintained properly, potentially leading to eye infections. Rinse your case with fresh solution and let it air dry upside down to keep it clean.

4. Follow the Right Wearing Schedule

Stick to the prescribed wearing schedule for your specific lens type. Overwearing lenses can lead to discomfort and potential eye health issues such as corneal abrasion or infection. Adhering to the recommended schedule as outlined by the FDA can help prevent these complications.

Different lenses have unique replacement schedules: some are changed daily, others every two weeks, and some are replaced monthly. Understanding your lens type and its requirements is crucial. If you're unsure, consult with your eye care professional; they can provide guidance tailored to your lifestyle and eye health needs.

5. Avoid Sleeping in Your Lenses

Unless specifically prescribed by your eye doctor, avoid sleeping in your lenses to reduce the risk of eye infections and corneal inflammation. According to experts, sleeping in contact lenses can decrease oxygen supply to the cornea, negatively impacting its ability to heal itself and increasing the risk of infection.

Extended wear lenses should only be worn overnight if approved by your eye care provider. Even with these lenses, taking regular breaks from wearing contacts allows for better corneal oxygenation and overall eye health.

6. Give Your Eyes a Break

Speaking of breaks - let’s talk about giving your eyes a “contact lens break.” We recommend taking regular breaks from wearing your lenses by removing your contacts at night or wearing glasses for a short period. This can help prevent irritation and dryness by allowing better fluid and oxygen flow.

If you’re looking at screens for extended periods, consider the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This allows your eyes to relax and reduces eye strain, which can cause headaches or migraines.

7. Watch for Signs of Discomfort

Be attentive to any signs of discomfort, such as redness or irritation. If you notice any issues, remove your lenses and consult your eye care professional. Persistent symptoms may indicate an underlying problem that requires attention, such as an improper lens fit, dry eye, or eye infection.

8. Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration can help maintain healthy tear production, which is essential for comfortable lens wear. Drinking adequate water daily helps reduce the likelihood of dry eyes by enabling your eyes to produce the natural tears necessary for lens lubrication.

9. Wear Sunglasses Outdoors

Protect your eyes from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays by wearing sunglasses over your contact lenses when you're outside. Even on cloudy days, UV rays can still penetrate your eyes and cause damage over time. Sunglasses with UV protection shield your eyes and reduce damage to your lenses.

10. Regular Check-Ups with Your Eye Doctor

Regular visits to your eye doctor are essential to ensure your contact lenses fit properly and your eyes remain healthy. Your doctor can update your prescription, check for changes in eye health, and provide tips on lens care. Don’t skip these appointments; they are essential for long-term eye wellbeing.