· By Francesco Coletta
Complete guide on how to wear contact lenses safely and correctly!
1. Wash your hands
Before touching your contact lenses, be sure to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Avoid using scented soaps or oils that can leave residue on your lenses.
2. Prepare the Lenses
If your contact lenses are disposable, be sure to remove them from the sealed package just before wearing them. If your lenses are reusable, check them to make sure they are clean and free of damage.
3. Cleanliness and Hygiene
Before wearing your lenses, visually inspect them to make sure they are free of any debris or damage. If you notice anything strange, do not wear them and contact your eye care professional.
4. Wear your lenses
To wear lenses, follow these steps:
- Place the lens on the end of your index finger, making sure it is correctly oriented (concave up).
- With your other hand, use your middle finger to hold your eye open.
- Using your index finger, gently place the lens on your eye, centering its diameter with the pupil.
- Slowly release your eyelid and gently close your eye, then move your eye slightly to allow the lens to seat properly.
5. Check the Positioning
After wearing both lenses, check that they are positioned correctly and that they are not bent or displaced. Look in the mirror and make sure the lenses cover the surface of the eye evenly.
6. Practical Advice
- Practice: If you are new to wearing contact lenses, it may take some practice before you become proficient at putting them on.
- Use the Proper Liquid: Always use a unique solution specifically designed for contact lenses to clean, rinse and store your lenses.
- Follow Manufacturer's Instructions: Always follow the specific use and care instructions provided with your contact lenses.
7. Remove the Lenses
To remove contact lenses, follow these steps:
- Make sure you have washed your hands.
- Look up and use your middle finger to gently pull down your lower eyelid.
- With the index finger and thumb of the opposite hand, gently grasp the lens and pull it towards the center of the eye.
- Gently remove the lens, then clean it with the appropriate solution before storing it in the designated container.
8. Storage Tips
- Store your lenses in the designated container, always filled with a saline solution or multifunctional liquid.
- Regularly change the liquid in the container every approximately 14 days and replace the container itself every 3-6 months.
- Keep container closed and away from sources of contamination.
9. If You Experience Problems
If you experience irritation, redness or discomfort after wearing your lenses, remove them immediately and contact your eye care professional. You may need to adjust your prescription or change your lens type.
By carefully following these directions, you can wear and care for your contact lenses safely and comfortably. Always remember to consult your ophthalmologist if you have questions or doubts about the correct procedure for using contact lenses.