Welcome to the world of colored contact lenses! Whether you're curious about changing up your eye color for a special occasion or looking to express your style on a daily basis, colored contacts offer a world of possibilities. Like any prized possession, contact lenses need the right care and handling. There are three things you need to consider if you want to learn how to properly clean and handle your color contact lenses.
Usage or Wearing Period Matters
Newly purchased colored contacts should be worn progressively over time. For the first day, they should be worn for two hours only. For the succeeding days, add two hours each. And so on. This gradual increase in wearing time helps your eyes adjust comfortably to the lenses. Think of it like breaking in a new pair of shoes – you wouldn't want to wear them all day right away! A friend of mine, Sarah, shared her experience of trying colored contacts for the first time. She followed this gradual approach and found it much easier on her eyes. It is not advisable to wear color contact lenses for eight hours straight. Your eyes need time to breathe and rest. Extended wear can lead to discomfort, dryness, and even potential eye health issues. Similarly, wearing contacts while sleeping is a big no-no. Your eyes need to rest and replenish moisture overnight. Plus, sleeping with contacts increases the risk of eye infections, as bacteria can thrive in the closed environment. If you accidentally fall asleep with contact lenses in, remove them as soon as you can. You may also need to rehydrate your eyes with eye drops.Remember, your eyes are precious – treat them with care!
Cleaning Process
Your contact lenses should be cleaned regularly to maintain clear vision and prevent eye infections. Start by washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water. You wouldn't want any dirt or germs transferring to your lenses! Then, gently place your lens on your palm and apply a few drops of the recommended cleaning solution. My friend David, who's been wearing contacts for years, swears by this method. He always makes sure to massage the solution onto the lens for about 20 seconds to ensure thorough cleaning. If you have long nails, take care to use only the soft pads of your fingers to avoid tearing the lenses with your nails.Proper storage is also crucial. After cleaning, store your lenses in a clean case filled with fresh solution. Avoid using water or saliva – they're not sterile and can introduce harmful bacteria to your lenses. And remember, never reuse solution or top it off with new solution. Each time you wear your lenses, use fresh solution to prevent contamination.
Consecutive Lens Use
If you're planning to wear your color contact lenses for several consecutive days, it's essential to give them a thorough cleaning each night. This helps remove any buildup of proteins, oils and or debris that can accumulate over time. My cousin Lisa, who wears contacts daily for work, swears by this routine. She sets aside a few minutes each night to clean and disinfect her lenses, ensuring they're fresh and comfortable to wear the next day. Additionally, be mindful of your environment. If you know you'll be exposed to dust or other foreign particles, consider wearing protective eyewear or removing your lenses temporarily. It's also important to never exceed the replacement cycle indicated for your contacts - monthlies need to be thrown out and replaced a month after you open them, dailies should never be reused, etc. This is because, over time, proteins and oils get trapped in the porous material of the lenses; and, at the indicated replacement period, it's time to throw them out.It's all about taking proactive steps to keep your eyes safe and healthy.
General Care Tips
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Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling your colored contact lenses to avoid transferring dirt and bacteria to your eyes.
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Never exceed the recommended wearing time for your colored contact lenses. Remove contact lenses before bedtime unless approved for extended wear by your eye care professional.
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Store your lenses in a clean contact lens case filled with fresh solution when not in use. Replace your contact lens case every three months to prevent bacterial contamination.
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Avoid exposing your colored contact lenses to water, including swimming, showering, or using hot tubs, as water can damage the lenses and increase the risk of eye infections.
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Attend regular check-ups with your eye care professional to monitor your eye health and ensure the proper fit and prescription of your colored contact lenses.
Caring for your colored contact lenses is essential for maintaining both comfort and eye health. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this guide, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable experience with your colored contacts. Remember, if you have any questions or concerns about your lenses or eye health, don't hesitate to consult your eye care professional. With proper care and attention, you can confidently embrace your unique style with colored contact lenses!
