Contact lenses, also known simply as contacts, are thin disks of plastic that float on the surface of your eyes to correct vision. According to the American Optometric Association, over 30 million Americans wear contact lenses. Whether you currently wear contact lenses or are considering getting them, the following tips for inserting contacts will increase your comfort and decrease your risk of getting an eye infection.
Wash Hands Well
The American Academy of Ophthalmology, or the AAO, advises washing your hands with soap and water and drying them with a lint-free towel before handling your contact lenses. Lack of hygiene when inserting contacts may result in eye infections. Also, lay a clean towel across the vanity or sink to prevent your contacts from collecting germs and bacteria if you drop them while trying to insert them into your eyes. This may also prevent a contact from going down the drain.
Prevent Cosmetics Contamination
Using hand lotion or applying makeup before inserting soft contacts can cause contamination with germs or leave a film on your contacts, according to the American Optometric Association. The association also cautions against using lash-extending mascara, because this type of mascara has fibers that can irritate the eyes. Keep cologne, eyelash cement and nail polish products away during insertion of your contacts. These cosmetics can damage the lenses.
Use Sterile Saline Solution
Before insertion, wet your contacts with sterile saline solution specifically made for contact lenses. Avoid homemade saline solutions made with salt water. Homemade solutions have been linked to eye infections, because they may not be completely sterile, explains Denver optometrist Steven Glick, who adds that you should keep the bottle of saline closed when not using it and avoid letting the tip of the bottle touch any potentially contaminated surface.
Perfect Your Technique
Inserting your contact lenses may feel awkward and take several tries at first, but with practice you'll perfect your technique. Start by placing the lens on your index finger and applying saline solution. It's important that the edges face upward to allow the lens to float properly on your eye. With your other hand, pull down your lower lid and raise your upper lid; then place the lens on your cornea, or the colored part of your eye. Repeat until you're successful.
Try Plan B
If placing the lens directly on your cornea is difficult, or you have a strong blink reflex, try pulling down your lower lid and placing the lens on the white part of your eye. Then push it up onto your cornea. Be sure to push it up gently to avoid damaging the lens and to keep it adhered to your eye. Blink to allow the lens to adjust and adhere to your cornea.
Clean Lens Before Reinserting
Don't just apply wetting solution if you remove your lens due to discomfort or other reasons. The AAO states that any lens that is removed from the eye needs to be cleaned and disinfected before it is reinserted. Discuss the proper disinfecting solution and cleansing technique for your contact lenses with your eye doctor. Never put a contact in your mouth to wet it. The AAO warns that saliva is not a sterile solution.
Store in a Sanitary Case
Before inserting your contacts, be sure they have been stored properly. A dirty or improper storage case can be a source of contamination and infection. Use only a case made specifically for contact lenses, and be sure it's not cracked or damaged. The AAO recommends replacing your contact case every three months. Clean the case with fresh solution and keep it open to air dry.
References
- Steven Glick, D.O., optometrist specializing in contact lenses at Vision Care Specialists; Denver, Colorado
- American Optometric Association: Facts and Stats
- American Optometric Association: Contact Lenses and Cosmetics
- eyeSmart: Contact Lenses
- eyeSmart: Caring for Contact Lenses
