Welcome to the world of contact lenses! Whether you’re new to contacts or just need a refresher, this guide will help you master the process of inserting and removing your lenses safely and comfortably.
Inserting Contact Lenses
- Wash Your Hands:
- Always start with clean hands. Use soap and water, and dry them with a lint-free towel. This prevents dirt and bacteria from getting on your lenses and into your eyes.
- Prepare Your Lenses:
- Open the lens case or blister pack carefully. Use your fingertip to slide the lens out of the case.
- Inspect the lens to make sure it’s clean, clear, and free of any tears or debris.
- Check the Lens Orientation:
- Place the lens on the tip of your finger. Hold it up to the light and look at the edges.
- If the lens forms a perfect “U” shape, it’s ready to go. If the edges flare out like a “U” with a rim, it’s inside out. Flip it gently.
- Insert the Lens:
- Using your non-dominant hand, hold your upper eyelid to prevent blinking.
- With your dominant hand, pull down your lower eyelid.
- Look up or straight ahead and gently place the lens on your eye. Release your eyelid slowly and blink to center the lens.
- Repeat for the Other Eye:
- Follow the same steps for your other eye.
Removing Contact Lenses
- Wash Your Hands:
- Clean hands are just as important for removing lenses as they are for inserting them. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.
- Prepare Your Lens Case:
- Fill your lens case with fresh contact lens solution. Never reuse old solution.
- Remove the Lens:
- Look up and gently pull down your lower eyelid with your non-dominant hand.
- Using your dominant hand, slide the lens down to the white part of your eye with your fingertip.
- Pinch the lens gently between your thumb and index finger to remove it. Be careful not to squeeze too hard.
- Clean and Store Your Lenses:
- If you’re using reusable lenses, clean them with contact lens solution as recommended by your eye care professional.
- Place the lenses in the case, ensuring they are fully submerged in solution.
- Repeat for the Other Eye:
- Follow the same steps to remove and store the lens from your other eye.
Tips for Success
- Stay Calm and Patient: It might take a few tries to get comfortable with the process. Stay relaxed and don’t rush.
- Use a Mirror: A well-lit mirror can help you see what you’re doing more clearly.
- Keep Nails Trimmed: Short nails reduce the risk of accidentally scratching your eye or lens.
- Follow Your Eye Care Professional’s Advice: Always adhere to the specific instructions provided by your eye care professional regarding lens care and wear.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
- Lens Feels Uncomfortable: If a lens feels uncomfortable, remove it, rinse it with solution, and check for debris or damage. Reinsert it carefully.
- Lens Won’t Stay in Place: Ensure your eye is moist. If it’s dry, use rewetting drops before attempting to insert the lens again.
- Difficulty Removing Lenses: If you’re having trouble removing a lens, try using rewetting drops to lubricate your eye. This can make the lens easier to slide off.
Remember, practice makes perfect. Soon, inserting and removing your contact lenses will become second nature. Happy lens-wearing!
