Beginner’s guide to Contact Lenses

Getting your first pair of contact lenses is a thrilling experience, allowing you to notice intricate details like dew on the grass and vibrant specks of color on leaves without having to wear your sunglasses. While this marks an exciting time, it's natural to feel a tad apprehensive. After all, your eyes are invaluable, and contact lenses are sophisticated medical devices. To ensure the health and comfort of your eyes, here are five indispensable tips for a lifetime of success with your new contact lenses:

1. Embrace the Process with Confidence

Ease into the application and removal of your lenses without fear. Though the initial moments may seem a bit awkward, rest assured that there's no need to be anxious about touching your eye with clean hands. The unique design of your lenses ensures they won't mysteriously vanish into the depths behind your eye.

2. The Foundation of Eye Health

Meticulous Hand Washing Ensure the longevity of your eye health by prioritizing thorough hand washing before handling your contact lenses. Clean hands are essential to prevent the transfer of dirt, bacteria, or other contaminants to your lenses and, ultimately, to your eyes. Follow proper hand hygiene practices recommended by healthcare professionals, including using soap and water, and drying your hands with a lint-free towel before touching your lenses. This simple yet crucial step will contribute significantly to the comfort and clarity of your contact lens-wearing experience.

3. Lens Care is key

For those using monthly or bi-weekly lenses, meticulous cleanliness is key. Adhere to your optometrist's care instructions diligently. Whether using a multipurpose solution or another prescribed method, always rub, rinse, and store your lenses in fresh solution. Never take shortcuts by adding to the existing solution; instead, start each morning with a fresh lens case, rinsed with solution, left to air dry upside down on a paper towel. Don't forget to replace your lens case every three months.

4. Trust the Expert

Your optometrist has carefully selected products and a follow-up schedule tailored to your unique needs. Strictly adhere to their recommendations and never substitute lens care products without consulting them first. Regular check-ups are vital, so stick to the follow-up schedule your doctor establishes.

5. Discipline in Wearing and Replacement

Resist the urge to create your own rules regarding wearing and replacing your lenses. Follow your optometrist's guidelines on daily wear duration and replacement schedules. Avoid the temptation to extend the life of your lenses—stick to the prescribed timeline. Unless you have continuous wear lenses, never sleep in your contacts.

6. Lens Orientation 101

Spotting Inside Out Lenses Ensuring your contact lens is correctly positioned is crucial for comfort and vision. Here's a quick guide: Cup Check: Hold the lens on your fingertip, forming a cup. If the edges flare out, it's inside out. A smooth "U" shape means it's correct. Handling Tint Tip: For tinted lenses, place it on your fingertip and look down. A vivid color (blue or green) indicates the right orientation. Laser Markings: Some lenses have laser markings. If you can read them clearly, the lens is not inside out. Remember, if a lens feels uncomfortable, it might be inside out, but it won't harm your eyes. Adjusting its position will restore comfort and clarity.

7. Dispose Responsibly for a Cleaner Tomorrow

When it's time to bid farewell to your contact lenses, dispose of them in a waste or garbage receptacle. Follow the directives of your local sanitation authorities for proper disposal—never flush contact lenses down drainage systems. By incorporating these tips into your daily routine, you'll ensure a seamless and successful journey with your new contact lenses. If questions arise, your eye doctor is just a message away. Embrace the newfound clarity and freedom your contact lenses bring to your life!

References

Sprabary, J. E. L. S. a. A. (2022, May 31). Contact lenses: A guide for first-time users. All About Vision. https://www.allaboutvision.com/contact-lenses/beginners-guide/

5 tips for first time contact lens wearers. (n.d.). CooperVision. https://coopervision.com/blog/five-tips-for-first-time-contact-lens-wearers