Proper Contact Lens Care Tips for Healthy Eyes



Contact lenses offer a convenient and effective way to correct vision, providing clear sight without traditional eyeglasses. However, ensuring the health of your eyes while using contact lenses requires proper care and maintenance.

Here are five essential tips to help you maintain your contact lenses and keep your eyes healthy.

Adhere to Proper Cleaning and Disinfecting Protocols

One of the most crucial aspects of contact lens care is keeping them clean and free of harmful microorganisms. Always use the recommended contact lens solution for cleaning, rinsing, and storing your lenses. Avoid using tap water, saliva, or any non-sterile liquid, as they can introduce bacteria and other pathogens that can lead to serious eye infections.

When you remove your lenses, clean them with the appropriate solution by gently rubbing them between your fingers to remove protein build-up. Rinse them thoroughly before placing them in a clean lens case with a fresh solution. Clean your lens case daily with contact lens solution (never water) and let it air dry. Replace your lens case every three months to minimize the risk of contamination.

Follow Your Prescribed Replacement Schedule

Each type of contact lens has a specific wear and replacement schedule prescribed by your eye care professional. Adhering to the recommended timeline is vital, whether you wear daily, bi-weekly, or monthly lenses. Wearing lenses beyond their intended duration can cause discomfort, reduced eye oxygen flow, and an increased risk of infection.

Use daily wear lenses only once and discard them at the end of the day. Follow your eye care professional’s guidelines for any lenses approved for overnight wear to avoid complications.

Practice Good Hygiene before Handling Lenses

Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your contact lenses. Dry your hands with a lint-free towel to prevent transferring any contaminants or debris to your lenses. Avoid using oil-based or heavily scented soaps, which can leave a residue that might transfer to your lenses, causing irritation. Keep your nails short and clean to prevent accidental lens damage and reduce the risk of transferring germs to your eyes.

Be Mindful of Environmental Factors

Certain environmental factors can affect your contact lens comfort and safety. For example, exposure to water (such as swimming pools, hot tubs, or showers) can introduce harmful microorganisms to your lenses. It’s advisable to remove your lenses before swimming or use watertight swim goggles.

Dust, smoke, and other pollutants can also irritate your eyes. In such environments, consider wearing protective eyewear and using lubricating eye drops recommended by your eye care professional.

Monitor Your Eyes and Lenses for Any Issues

Regularly check your eyes and lenses for any signs of problems. Symptoms like redness, discomfort, blurred vision, or excessive tearing can indicate an issue with your lenses or a potential eye infection. If you experience these symptoms, remove your lenses immediately and consult your eye care professional.

Schedule regular eye exams to ensure your prescription remains accurate and your eyes stay healthy. Your eye care professional can detect early signs of complications and provide necessary adjustments to your lens care routine.

Proper contact lens care and maintenance are essential for ensuring the health of your eyes and the longevity of your lenses. Remember, your eyes are precious; caring for them will help you maintain excellent vision for years. Our experts at Optometric Associates of Southern Maine help you get the best eye care. Contact us to learn more!