How to Wear Contact Lenses
Wearing contact lenses is a safe and convenient way to correct your vision when used properly. Developing healthy habits can help keep your eyes comfortable and reduce the risk of eye infections.
Before You Begin
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.
- Dry your hands using a clean, lint-free towel.
- Avoid handling lenses immediately after applying lotions or oily products.
- Always begin with the same eye to avoid mixing up your lenses.
Inserting Your Contact Lenses
- Place the lens on the tip of your clean index finger.
- Check that the lens is not inside out. A properly positioned lens should resemble a smooth bowl with the edges pointing upward.
- Hold your upper eyelid open and gently pull down your lower eyelid.
- Look straight ahead or slightly upward and gently place the lens on your eye.
- Slowly release your eyelids and blink several times until the lens feels comfortable.
Healthy Contact Lens Habits
- Wear your lenses only as prescribed.
- Replace your lenses according to your prescribed replacement schedule.
- Never wear damaged or torn lenses.
- Never share contact lenses with another person.
- Unless specifically prescribed by your eye care professional, do not sleep in your contact lenses.
When to Contact Your Eye Doctor
Remove your contact lenses immediately and contact your eye care professional if you experience:
- Eye pain
- Persistent redness
- Light sensitivity
- Blurred or decreased vision
- Excessive tearing
- Unusual discharge
- A contact lens that becomes difficult to remove