Contact lenses are a great option for sport, certain work environments and as an alternative to glasses. Wearing contact lenses safely and comfortably involves proper hygiene, following wearing schedules (daily, weekly, monthly) and regular eye care examinations. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the convenience and benefits of contact lenses whilst maintaining good eye health.
1. Wash your hands with soap and dry them thoroughly before touching or handling, applying, or removing your contact lenses.
2. Only use solutions and drops on your contact lenses specifically “for contact lenses”. NEVER USE TAP WATER
3. When applying your contact lenses, put them in after your morning routine to avoid contamination by water from the shower or sink.
4. Apply makeup after you have applied your contact lenses and remove them before taking makeup off.
5. If a contact lens is difficult to remove from your eye, dry your fingers then remove. If this continues to be difficult, close your eye and massage your upper lid. The lens will start to move. You may need to repeat this process and blink a few times to moisten the surface of your eye until the lens starts to move. Do not be alarmed – you may need to repeat this process several times as it can take up to 10 minutes for the lens to move freely.
6. It is fine to interchange your contact lenses and glasses.
7. For monthly replaced lens wearers, keep a supply of contact lens solution in your cupboard. When you need it, you need it!
8. When outside, practice good eye health. Wear sunglasses with your contacts, even if you are wearing UV protective contact lenses as they do not block out all harmful UV rays.
9. Buy your contact lenses from a legitimate source and make sure an optometrist or eye care professional prescribes your lenses.
10. If your eye feels uncomfortable or you have poor vision when you wear your contact lenses, take them out and start the process again. If your eye continues to feel uncomfortable, poor vision or looks red, please contact our team.
Regular eye check-ups are essential for contact lens wearers to ensure lenses remain effective, comfortable, and safe. Shire Optometrists are conveniently located in Cronulla, Gymea, Illawong and Jannali. Book your appointment today.
