How to Use Contact Lenses Properly: A Practical Guide to Avoid Eye Problems
Nowadays, the use of contact lenses is increasingly common. They allow us to enjoy a more active lifestyle, practice sports comfortably, and temporarily forget about glasses. However, in order to benefit from all their advantages without putting your eye health at risk, it is essential to use them correctly.
Although there are different types of contact lenses (daily, monthly, rigid, toric, multifocal, etc.), they all share a set of basic rules that every wearer should know. Below is a simple and complete guide to help you use your contact lenses safely.
- Cleaning and Maintenance: The Foundation of Proper Use
Proper hygiene is key to preventing eye infections:
Always wash your hands
Before handling your lenses, wash your hands with soap and water and dry them thoroughly.
Dirty hands can transfer germs directly to your eyes.
Use only contact lens solutions
Tap water is NOT sterile and may contain microorganisms that can cause serious infections.
Always use the solutions recommended by your eye care professional to clean, rinse, and store your lenses.
Take care of your lens case
The case can also accumulate bacteria.
• Clean it weekly.
• Empty it and refill it with fresh solution every day.
• Replace the case approximately once a month.
These small habits greatly reduce the risk of infections.
- Respect the Replacement Schedule of Your Contact Lenses
Each type of contact lens has a specific replacement schedule defined by clinical studies.
- Do not use them for more days than indicated by the manufacturer or your specialist.
• Avoid wearing them longer than recommended each day. Overwearing can cause dryness, irritation, or reduced oxygen supply to the cornea.
A very common mistake is extending the use of monthly lenses beyond the recommended period. This significantly increases the risk of complications.
- Situations to Avoid When Wearing Contact Lenses
Do not wear them if you have eye symptoms
If you experience itching, redness, pain, discharge, or suspect an infection, do not wear your lenses.
If symptoms appear while wearing them, remove them immediately and consult your eye care professional.
Avoid dusty or fume-filled environments
In these environments, lenses can trap particles or irritating substances and worsen eye damage.
Do not swim with contact lenses
Water from pools, beaches, or showers may contain harmful microorganisms.
If you practice water sports, it is better to wear protective goggles over your eyes.
Conclusion:
Contact lenses are an excellent option as long as they are used responsibly. With proper hygiene, correct handling, and respect for the recommended wearing schedule, you can enjoy them comfortably and safely.
If you have any questions about the most suitable type of contact lenses for you or about your care routine, do not hesitate to consult your eye care professional at Visionker.
Authors:
Sandra Manzaneque – Optometrist at VISIONKER – Vega Baja (Alicante)
Irene Carretero – Optometrist at VISIONKER Eye Clinic – Guardamar del Segura (Alicante)
