Contact lenses have become an integral part of many people’s lives, offering a convenient and often imperceptible way to correct vision or enhance their eye color. Whether you’ve been wearing contacts for years or are just beginning your journey, understanding how to care for your lenses is essential for maintaining healthy eyes. In this article, we’ll share five valuable tips for proper contact lens care and hygiene that are especially relevant to the Indian audience.
Wash Your Hands Before Handling Your Lenses
Before touching your contact lenses, make it a habit to wash your hands thoroughly. This simple yet crucial step helps prevent the transfer of dirt, oils, and bacteria to your lenses, reducing the risk of eye irritation and blurred vision. If you use daily disposable contact lenses, you can simply remove and dispose of them at the end of the day. For those wearing soft monthly or bi-weekly lenses, it’s important to follow the care instructions for the best experience. Use mild, fragrance-free soap without oils when washing your hands, and then dry them with a lint-free towel or a paper towel.
Use the Correct Contact Solution
It’s imperative to use the contact solution recommended for your specific lenses and eye drops. Some contact lenses require specialized products to keep them clean and safe. When you purchase contact lenses online, be sure to have all the information about your lens type, prescription, and the care products required.
It’s crucial to avoid the temptation of using water or saliva on your contact lenses, as doing so can introduce acanthamoeba, a harmful bacteria that may result in corneal infections and vision issues. To ensure effective cleaning and maintenance of your contact lenses, follow these essential steps: Begin by placing the contact lens in your palm, then add a few drops of the recommended lens solution. Gently rub the lens with your index finger to remove any buildup that may have accumulated.
Care for Your Contact Lens Case
Your contact lens case plays a crucial role in your lens care routine, as it serves as your storage unit. After each use, remember to clean the case with a multipurpose solution (not water) and allow it to air dry on a lint-free towel or paper towel. Keeping your lens case clean is essential to ensure that it remains a safe environment for your lenses.
While it may be convenient to keep your contact lenses in the bathroom for your morning routine, it’s wiser to store them in a clean, low-humidity environment.
Keep Track of Your Lenses Wear
If you wear bi-weekly or monthly contact lenses, it’s vital to adhere to your optometrist’s instructions regarding how long to wear your lenses and when to replace them. To help you remember these guidelines, you can keep a calendar on your phone or use a printed chart to track your lens wear.
Wearing contact lenses beyond the recommended duration can result in discomfort, eye irritation, reduced vision, and an increased risk of eye infections.
Carry an Extra Pair of Glasses
Contact lenses offer a frameless and convenient solution, but it’s essential to have a backup plan. Carrying a pair of prescription glasses with you is advisable for situations where you may need to remove your lenses. For instance, when swimming at the gym, driving back home, or spending extended periods in front of a computer screen, having glasses at hand can protect your eye health and provide relief from digital eye strain.
Proper contact lens care and hygiene are essential for maintaining your eye health and ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable contact lens experience. By treating your contact lenses with the care they deserve and following the recommended practices, you can keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear. Remember, your lenses are not just a fashion accessory; they are medical tools that require diligent care.
