Thinking about making the switch to contact lenses is exciting! They can offer a new sense of freedom, whether you’re playing sports or just enjoying a specs-free look. But the thought of putting something in your eye can be a little intimidating at first.
It’s a common feeling, and nearly everyone who wears contacts has been there. Putting in contact lenses for the first time might seem tricky, but with a little practice and the right technique, it can quickly become a simple part of your daily routine. Let’s walk through the steps together.
First, Prepare Your Hands and Your Lenses
Before touching your eyes or contacts, a few simple preparation steps are essential for comfort and health. This routine quickly becomes second nature once you get the hang of it.
Wash Your Hands Thoroughly
Start by washing your hands with a mild, lotion-free soap and water. Dry them completely with a lint-free towel. This helps prevent any fuzzies or germs from getting on your lenses and into your eyes.
Inspect The Contact Lens
Gently place the lens on the tip of your index finger. Take a moment to check for 2 things before it goes in your eye:
- Make sure it’s not inside out. It should look like a tiny, perfectly shaped bowl, not a saucer with a lip.
- Look for any small tears or debris on the lens itself. A clean, intact lens is essential for safe contact lens wear and preventing irritation.
How to Get Contact Lenses
Contact lenses require a specific prescription and fitting from an eye care professional. You can’t use your glasses prescription to buy them because they sit directly on your eye and need to match its unique curvature.
The Need for a Contact Lens Exam
An optometrist measures your eyes to find lenses that fit correctly and feel comfortable. This exam is different from a standard eye exam for glasses and is focused on prioritizing optimal vision and health with contacts.
Your Contact Lens Prescription
Your prescription includes the lens brand, power, and specific measurements for size and curvature. An outdated or incorrect prescription can cause eye strain or blurry vision.
Find a Local Optometrist
A professional can teach you how to insert, remove, and care for your new lenses. You can find an optometrist to schedule an exam and get a proper fitting for contacts.
How to Put in Contact Lenses: A Step-By-Step Guide
It might feel a little strange at first, but with some patience, you’ll get the hang of it. Follow these steps for a smooth process, and remember that the exact feel may vary based on the type of contact lenses you have:
- Place the lens on your finger: Balance the clean lens on the tip of your dry index finger. A dry fingertip helps the lens transfer easily to your moist eye, rather than sticking to your skin.
- Hold your eyelids open: Use your other hand to gently pull your upper eyelid up toward your eyebrow. With a finger on your lens hand, carefully pull your lower eyelid down.
- Look up and place the lens: As you look up toward the ceiling, bring the contact lens toward your eye. Gently place it on the white part of your eye; it doesn’t have to go directly on your pupil.
- Close your eyes and blink: Slowly let go of your eyelids and close your eyes for a moment to let the lens settle. Blink a few times to help it move to the center. Your vision should feel clear and comfortable.
How to Take Contact Lenses Out
Just as putting them in becomes easier over time, removal also becomes much easier. The key is to be gentle and stay relaxed. You’ve got this!
Wash Your Hands Again
Let’s start again with clean, dry hands. This is an important step every time you handle your lenses.
Look Up and Pull Down Your Lower Lid
Look toward the ceiling and use your middle finger to pull down your lower eyelid. This creates a little space, making it easier to reach the lens. If your eyes feel dry, making removal difficult, you might want to ask our team about dry eye therapy options.
Gently Pinch and Remove The Lens
Using your index finger and thumb, gently pinch the edges of the lens. It should fold slightly and come right off your eye without any trouble. Try to avoid using your fingernails to prevent scratching the lens or your eye.
Common Problems and Lens Care Tips
If you run into trouble at first, don’t worry. Many people experience a short adjustment period. Here are a few tips for common issues and proper care.
What to Do if the Lens Feels Uncomfortable
If the lens irritates your eye, take it out. Rinse it with fresh contact lens solution, never tap water, and try inserting it again. If it still feels off, it might be inside out or have a tiny tear you missed.
How to Stop the Flinch Reflex
It’s normal to blink or flinch when something comes near your eye. Try to get comfortable touching the area around your eye first. Looking away from your finger as you bring the lens closer can also help.
Proper Storage for Your Lenses
Always store your contacts in a fresh solution inside a clean case. Never top off an old solution with a new one; this is like washing your hands with dirty water.
Replace Your Lenses On Schedule
Different contacts have different replacement schedules, ranging from daily to monthly. Follow the schedule your doctor gives you to help avoid eye irritation. When it’s time for a new supply, you can easily order your contacts online through our site.
Can You Shower or Swim with Contacts?
It’s best to avoid wearing contacts in water. Water from showers, pools, or lakes can contain germs that may cause serious eye infections, so it’s a good idea to take them out first.
Contacts Made Easy, Every Step of the Way
Learning to use contact lenses is a new skill, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. If you’re ready to see if contacts are a good fit for your lifestyle, our team at Impressive Eyes Optical would be happy to help. Schedule your contact lens exam with us today!
