Most eye infections that happen to a contact lens wearer occur when she is handling her contact lenses. This is why it is especially important to take them out and care for them properly. Contact lenses will not harm your eyes if they are kept clean and undamaged. A few moments of careful attention when you are taking out contact lenses can save you a great deal of pain and inconvenience.
Wash Your Hands
Hands that look clean can still be loaded with harmful bacteria. It is essential to thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water before taking out contact lenses. You must do this every time to avoid infection.
Find a Good Place
Only take out contact lenses in front of a mirror in a well lit place. This way you can see the contact lens in your eye and can find it if it is dropped. Make sure that the area in front of you is clear of items that would hide a dropped contact lens. If you are near a bathroom sink, close the drain so the contact lens cannot fall in.
Blink
Blinking your eyes several times fast forces the contact lenses to readjust in your eyes. This moistens them and centers them on your eyeball. They will be easier to find and remove.
Open Wide
Keep your eyelids as far apart as you can while you take out your contact lenses. You only need to do this for a second, so don't worry about discomfort. Stare at your eyeball in the mirror. Hold the skin under your eye down with your middle finger to discourage involuntary blinking.
Grab the Contact Lens
Gently pinch the contact lens between your thumb and index finger. The contact lens will fold in half and peel right off of your eyeball. Be careful not to pinch too hard or you might tear the contact lens.
Clean Up
Clean the contact lens and store it in an appropriate container immediately after taking it out. This is essential if you want to wear the contact lens again. Be sure to unpinch the contact lens so that it is stored in multipurpose solution in the open position.
