How to Put in Contacts: An Eye-Opening Guide - Blue Planet Optics
Millions of people worldwide use contact lenses as a convenient alternative to traditional glasses. They provide clear vision without altering appearance and are ideal for various activities where glasses might be cumbersome. However, inserting and removing contact lenses can seem daunting and intimidating for new users. Fear not, though! With the proper steps and some practice, it becomes a routine task you can quickly and confidently perform.
This detailed guide will walk you through the steps to safely insert your contacts and provide valuable tips to make the process easier. We'll cover everything from preparation to aftercare, ensuring you have all the information you need for a full contact lens experience.
The Easiest Way To Put in Contacts
Let's break down the process of inserting your contact lenses step by step:
Wash Your Hands
The key to inserting contact lenses is following a careful, hygienic process. Start by thoroughly washing your hands with fragrance-free soap and warm water. This step removes dirt, oils, and bacteria that could contaminate your lenses or cause eye infections.
Be sure to wash between your fingers and under your nails. Rinse your hands thoroughly to remove all soap residue. Dry them with a clean, lint-free towel to avoid getting any fibers on your lenses. If possible, use paper towels to ensure maximum cleanliness.
Cleaning The Contact Lenses
Use a sterile contact lens solution, not water or saliva, to rinse your lenses. Tap water can contain microorganisms that may cause serious eye infections. Place the lens in the palm of your hand, add a few drops of solution, and gently rub the lens with your fingertip. This process removes any residues and keeps your lenses safe and comfortable.
For reusable lenses, follow the specific cleaning instructions provided by your eye care professional or the lens manufacturer. Some lenses may require additional steps or specific solutions for optimal care.
Hold the Contact Lens Right-Side Out On The Tip of Your Finger
Before you insert the lens, make sure it's not inside out. An adequately oriented lens should form a smooth, bowl-like shape. If the edges flare out, it's inside out. Some lenses have indicators to help you determine the correct orientation.
To pick up the lens, use the pad of your index finger rather than your nail. Gently slide the lens up the side of the case or your palm until it's on your fingertip. Your finger should be dry to prevent the lens from sticking to it.
Hold Your Eye Open (Gently!)
Use your other hand to hold your eye open. With your non-dominant hand, place your index finger on your upper eyelid and your middle finger on your lower eyelid. Gently pull your eyelids apart, creating a wider opening for lens insertion.
Be careful not to press too hard on your eye or eyelid. The goal is to keep your eye open without causing discomfort or applying pressure to your eyeball.
Insert the Lens
Look straight ahead or slightly upward in a mirror, then slowly bring the lens toward your eye. Focusing on a specific point in the mirror may be helpful rather than watching the lens approach. This can help reduce your instinct to blink or flinch.
Lightly touch the lens to the surface of your eye, focusing on placing it over your iris (the colored part of your eye). Don't worry if the lens doesn't land perfectly centered — blinking will help it settle into place.
Once the lens is in place, slowly release your eyelids and close your eyes. Keep them closed for a moment to let the lens settle.
Make Sure the Contact Lens Feels Comfortable
After inserting the lens, make sure it feels comfortable. Blink a few times to center the lens and remove any air bubbles that might have formed during insertion. Your vision should be clear, and you shouldn't feel any discomfort.
If you experience discomfort, irritation, or blurry vision, the lens may not be positioned correctly or have debris on it. Remove the lens, clean it again, and reinsert it. If discomfort persists, consult your ophthalmologist to rule out issues such as an ill-fitting lens or an eye health problem.
Tips for Putting in Contacts
To make the process easier and more comfortable, consider these helpful tips:
Put Your Contacts In In the Same Order Every Time
Establish a routine by always starting with the same eye. This helps prevent mix-ups, especially if you have different prescriptions for each eye. This approach also builds muscle memory, making the process smoother.
If Possible, Keep Your Nails Short
Long nails can make handling lenses more difficult and increase the risk of scratching your eye or tearing the lens. If you prefer to keep your nails long, be extra careful when handling your lenses and consider using lens insertion tools.
Be Mindful Of The Makeup And Eye Drops You Use
If you wear makeup, apply it after inserting your lenses to avoid potential contamination. When removing makeup, remove your contacts to protect your lenses from getting makeup remover or mascara on them.
Ensure any eye drops you use are compatible with contact lenses. Some drops can discolor or damage certain types of lenses. Always consult your eye care professional before using new eye products with your contacts.
Similarly, oil-based cosmetics, lotions, and creams can interfere with lens comfort and clarity. When wearing contacts, stick to water-based or oil-free products.
What To Do if Your Contacts Are Uncomfortable
If your lenses feel uncomfortable after insertion, don't panic. Here are some steps to take:
- Remove the lens and check for damage or debris. Sometimes, a tiny particle can cause significant discomfort.
- Rinse the lens with a fresh solution and try reinserting it.
- If discomfort persists, use rewetting drops designed for contact lenses.
- Check the expiration date on your lenses and solutions. Expired products can irritate.
- If you're new to contacts, give yourself time to adjust, but book an appointment with your eye care professional if the discomfort continues.
Persistent discomfort may indicate that your lenses need replacing or an underlying issue requiring professional attention. Don't hesitate to contact your eye doctor if you have any concerns.
Need New Contacts?
If you have symptoms like ongoing discomfort or your vision isn't clear, it might be time for new contacts. Schedule an eye exam to ensure your prescription is up-to-date and your lenses fit properly. Your eye care professional can recommend the best type of lenses for your needs, considering your lifestyle, eye health, and personal preferences.
How To Take Out Contacts
Taking out your contacts is usually easier than putting them in, but it's equally important to do it carefully and hygienically. Here's how:
To remove your contact lenses safely, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them with a lint-free towel. Look upwards and gently pull down your lower eyelid with one finger.
Using your thumb and index finger, carefully pinch the lens. Don't use your nails, as this could damage the lens or scratch your eye. Slowly pull the lens away from your eye; if it doesn't come out quickly, apply a few rewetting drops and try again.
Once removed, place the contact lens in its case filled with fresh solution — never reuse old solution as this can lead to eye infections.
Repeat this process for the other eye and clean your lenses according to the manufacturer's instructions before storing them.
This careful routine guarantees proper hygiene and maintains the longevity of your contact lenses.
How To Wear Contacts Safely
Work Up To Longer And Longer Wear Times
Protect your eye health and make the most of your contact lens experience by gradually increasing your wear time as your eye doctor recommends, especially if you're new to contacts.
Avoid Showering, Swimming, And Sleeping In Your Contacts
Avoid exposing your lenses to water by not wearing them while showering, swimming, or sleeping unless your eye care professional specifically advises.
Never Wear Expired Contacts
Always replace your lenses as scheduled, and never wear expired contacts to prevent complications. Maintain proper hygiene by cleaning and storing your lenses daily using fresh solutions and clean cases. Remember to replace your lens case every three months to minimize contamination risk.
Never share your contact lenses, even with someone with the same prescription.
Lastly, always carry a backup pair of glasses if you need to remove your contacts unexpectedly.
Go To A Doctor If You're Experiencing Signs Of An Eye Infection
If you experience signs of an eye infection, such as redness, pain, excessive tearing, or blurred vision, remove your contacts immediately and contact your eye care professional. These symptoms could indicate a severe condition that requires prompt attention.
Regular check-ups with your eye doctor will help you keep your eyes healthy and guarantee optimal vision with contact lenses. Your doctor can assess how your eyes adapt to contact lens wear and adjust your prescription or care routine.
Everyone's eyes are different, so what works for one person might not work for another. Be encouraged if it takes some time to find your perfect technique. Putting in contacts will become a quick and easy part of your daily routine with practice and patience.
Start following these steps and tips, and you'll find that putting in contact lenses becomes a simple and routine part of your day.
For more tips, tricks, and in-depth articles on contact lens care, explore the extensive resources on the Blue Planet Optics website and consult your eye care professional!