How to Wear Contacts

Wearing contacts can be intimidating for the first time user. This concern quickly fades as the convenience and simplicity of wearing contacts becomes evident. There are just a few simple rules that should always be followed when wearing contacts. These rules ensure safety, cleanliness, and reliability.

Step 1

Have your contact lenses fitted by a professional. Never try to wear contacts that were not specifically prescribed for you. Contact lenses are different from glasses. They must be customized for several aspects of your eyeball in addition to the power of adjustment. Wearing an unprescribed contact can damage your eye or even cause blindness.

Step 2

Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling contact lenses. Your hands contain oils and germs that can cause eye infections. A simple way to avoid contamination is to wash your hands.

Step 3

Place the contact lens on your finger tip with the edges curving up. Spray a steady stream of multi-purpose solution on it for 5 seconds. This rinses away any built up residue. Place a few drops inside the contact lens itself before placing the contact on your eyeball. A simple way to prevent yourself from blinking is to pull your lower eyelid down while opening your eyes wide. The contact will stick to your eye when you pull your finger away. Blink a few times to adjust the contact's position in your eye.

Step 4

Avoid rubbing your eye while you wear contacts. This introduces foreign objects into the eye that can cause irritation or infection. If your eyes feel dry, add a few re-wetting drops. They act like artificial tears. It is a good idea to carry a bottle of these around with you.

Step 5

Remove the contacts carefully. Use the same technique you used to put the contacts in, except grab the contact by pinching it gently between your thumb and index finger. Rinse the contact on both sides with a steady stream of multi-purpose solution for 5 seconds per side. Rubbing is not necessary unless the contact is especially dirty. If you do rub, do it gently with your clean finger.

Step 6

Store your contacts in a contact lens case. Fill the case to the top with multi-purpose solution before placing the contact lenses inside. Be careful to distinguish your right contact lens from your left if your prescription is different for each eye. Secure the lid tightly or the multi-purpose solution will evaporate and the contacts will dry up.

Things You'll Need

  • contacts
  • contact case
  • multi-purpose solution
  • re-wetting drops

Last updated on: Oct 1, 2009

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