Hi Lykkers! To help improve sharp vision, some people with refractive errors may choose to use soft lenses or contact lenses, as they are considered more practical compared to wearing glasses.

Contact lenses are prosthetic devices made to be worn on the cornea (the transparent layer covering the colored part of the eye).

Contact lenses can help correct refractive errors and irregularities in the corneal surface. However, when deciding to use contact lenses, there are important steps to follow to avoid potential eye health issues. To provide more clarity, here are the steps and guidelines for wearing contact lenses properly!

1. Wash Your Hands First

Before putting on soft lenses, the first step is to thoroughly wash your hands with soap and running water. This is crucial to prevent bacteria or viruses from spreading to your eyes through your hands, reducing the risk of eye infections.

It’s important to avoid using soaps that contain fragrances or oils, as these substances can stick to the surface of the contact lenses, potentially causing irritation. After washing your hands, dry them using a clean towel or tissue to ensure no moisture is left on your hands.

2. Removing the Soft Lens from Case

The next step is to carefully take the soft lens from its case. Before removing it, gently shake the lens case to loosen the lens from the bottom, preventing it from sticking to the surface. Open the lens case carefully, and using the tip of your finger, remove one lens. Be sure to handle the lens delicately to avoid tearing it.

3. Rinse the Soft Lens Before Use

Once the lens is out of the case, it’s important to rinse it with a special contact lens solution before inserting it into your eye. This helps remove any dust, debris, or buildup from the lens and makes it more comfortable for use while reducing the risk of infection.

Avoid using plain tap water to rinse the lenses. Tap water can contain harmful microorganisms and contaminants that could lead to serious infections such as keratitis, an inflammation of the cornea. Always use a sterile contact lens solution recommended by an eye care professional to clean and store your lenses.

4. Inserting the Soft Lens into Your Eye Slowly

After rinsing the lens, ensure it is in good condition, with no tears or damage. Also, check that the lens is correctly oriented. The correct shape for a soft contact lens is like a bowl, with the edges facing upward. If the edges of the lens curl outward, it is likely turned inside out.

If you notice the lens is reversed, gently flip it to the correct position. Do not attempt to wear a lens that cannot be flipped back or shows signs of damage, as it can be uncomfortable or unsafe to use.

To make insertion easier, stand in front of a mirror. Place the lens on the tip of your dominant hand’s index finger, ensuring that you are holding it with the finger pads, not your nails. Use your non-dominant hand to hold your upper eyelid open and look straight into the mirror.

With your dominant hand, pull down the lower eyelid using your middle or ring finger. Position the lens gently over your eye and, while looking directly forward or at the ceiling, place the lens onto your eye. This positioning will allow the lens to settle into place more easily.

5. Closing Your Eye Slowly

Once the lens is positioned on your eye, slowly close your eye and move your eyeball in circular motions to help the lens settle comfortably. Afterward, open your eye and blink a few times to ensure the lens is correctly aligned and sitting comfortably.

If the soft lens feels comfortable and clear, you’re ready to go. However, if it feels uncomfortable or you experience any irritation, remove the lens, rinse it with fresh solution, and repeat the process. If the discomfort persists, try a different lens or consult with your eye care provider.

Additional Tips for Proper Soft Lens Use

Lens Case Hygiene: Regularly clean and replace your lens case. Bacteria can build up in old cases, which may lead to contamination. Wash it with warm water and replace it every few months.

Storage: Never store your lenses in plain water. Always use fresh, sterile contact lens solution and never reuse solution.

Wear Time: Be mindful of how long you wear your lenses. Follow your eye care provider's recommendations on how many hours a day your lenses are safe to wear. Over-wearing lenses can lead to eye dryness and irritation.

Regular Check-up: Make regular visits to an eye care professional to ensure that your eyes remain healthy and that your lenses still fit properly. Periodic eye exams are important for monitoring the health of your eyes, especially when wearing contact lenses.

By following these steps, wearing soft contact lenses can be a smooth and comfortable experience. Always remember to handle your lenses carefully and keep them clean to prevent eye infections. With proper care, soft contact lenses can provide clear and comfortable vision for everyday use. Stay safe and happy lens wearing Lykkers!