How to put in contact lenses
Putting in contact lenses can take some practice, but once you get used to it, it becomes a quick and simple routine. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you insert contact lenses correctly:
Step-by-Step Guide to Putting in Contact Lenses:
1. Wash Your Hands
Always wash your hands with soap and water before handling contact lenses. Use a mild, fragrance-free soap, and make sure to rinse thoroughly to avoid any residue getting on the lenses.
Dry your hands with a lint-free towel to prevent any particles from sticking to the lenses.
2. Start with the Correct Lens
If you have different prescriptions for each eye, make sure you're using the correct lens for each eye (left and right). Some people label their lens cases to avoid confusion.
Take out the lens for one eye at a time to avoid mixing them up.
3. Inspect the Lens
Gently place the lens on the tip of your index finger and inspect it for any damage, such as tears or scratches.
Check that the lens is not inside out. A properly oriented lens will have a smooth, bowl-like shape. If the edges flare outward, it's inside out. Another trick is to look for lens markings (some lenses have small numbers or letters to help you identify the correct orientation).
4. Rinse the Lens (If Needed)
If you're using disposable lenses, they are often pre-moistened and ready to use, but it’s still good practice to rinse the lens with your contact lens solution to remove any debris.
For reusable lenses, always rinse the lens with a sterile lens solution before inserting it. Never use tap water or saliva, as these can introduce bacteria and lead to infections.
5. Hold Your Eye Open
Use both hands to help place the lens:
Use the index finger of your dominant hand to hold the lens.
With your non-dominant hand, gently pull up on your upper eyelid to keep it open.
Use the middle finger of your dominant hand to pull down your lower eyelid.
6. Insert the Lens
While holding your eyelids open, look straight ahead or slightly upward, and carefully place the contact lens directly on the center of your cornea (the clear part of your eye).
Some people find it easier to look slightly to the side and place the lens on the white part of the eye before gently shifting it into place.
7. Blink Slowly
Once the lens is on the eye, gently release your eyelids and blink slowly a few times to allow the lens to settle and center itself. The lens should feel comfortable and sit properly on your eye.
If the lens feels uncomfortable or blurry, it may not be centered correctly. Look around or close your eyes gently to help the lens center itself, or carefully adjust it with clean fingers if needed.
8. Repeat for the Other Eye
Follow the same steps to insert the lens into your other eye.
Tips for Comfort and Success:
Relax: If you’re nervous, your eyes may blink excessively, making it harder to insert the lenses. Try to stay calm and avoid rushing.
Use a mirror: In the beginning, using a mirror to watch yourself insert the lenses can help you with coordination.
Check for debris: If the lens doesn’t feel comfortable after inserting, there may be a speck of dust or debris. Remove the lens, rinse it with solution, and try again.
Keep your lenses hydrated: If your eyes feel dry, use rewetting drops specifically designed for contact lenses to keep them moist throughout the day.
What to Do if the Lens Doesn’t Go In:
If the lens sticks to your finger and doesn’t go into your eye, it may be too dry. Rewet the lens with solution and try again.
If the lens is not sitting correctly, carefully slide it to the center by gently moving it with your finger through your eyelid or re-inserting it.
Removal Tips (When You're Ready):
When it’s time to remove your lenses, always wash your hands first and make sure to gently slide the lens off your eye, using clean fingertips. This will keep your eyes and lenses safe from infections or damage.
Cautions:
Never use tap water or any homemade solutions to clean or store your lenses. Always use the proper contact lens solution recommended by your eye doctor.
Make sure to clean and store your reusable lenses properly and replace them according to your doctor’s schedule (daily, bi-weekly, or monthly).
Following these steps and maintaining proper hygiene can help ensure a smooth and comfortable experience with contact lenses.
References
Tips for Maintaining Healthy Contact Lens Habits - Medequate Global. https://www.medequateglobal.com/tips-for-maintaining-healthy-contact-lens-habits/
How to Put In and Take Out Contacts. https://www.hubblecontacts.com/blog/how-to-put-in-take-out-contacts-step-by-step/
How Do You Know if Your Heart Eye Contacts Are Safe? - Fenom Life. https://fenomlife.com/how-do-you-know-if-your-heart-eye-contacts-are-safe/
Patients & Visitors | TGH North | Brooksville, Crystal River, Spring Hill. https://www.tghnorth.org/patients-visitors