How Do I Properly Care for My Contact Lenses?

Contact lenses offer convenience, comfort, and clear vision, but they also require proper care to keep your eyes healthy. Whether you are new to contacts or have been wearing them for years, it is essential to follow a consistent cleaning and care routine. Here is what you need to know to care for your lenses and protect your eye health.

Always Wash and Dry Your Hands

Before handling your contact lenses, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Dry them with a clean, lint free towel. This step helps prevent transferring dirt, oils, and bacteria from your fingers to your lenses and eyes.

Use the Right Contact Lens Solution

Only use the solution recommended by your eye care provider. Never use tap water or saliva to clean or store your lenses, as these can contain harmful microorganisms. Do not top off old solution in your lens case. Always use fresh solution each time you clean and store your lenses.

Clean Your Lenses Daily

Even if you use daily wear disposable lenses, it is important to clean them properly if they are not single use. For reusable lenses, gently rub them with solution in the palm of your hand before storing them. This helps remove debris and protein buildup that can affect comfort and vision.

Store Lenses Properly

Use a clean contact lens case and keep it filled with fresh solution. Clean your case regularly and let it air dry between uses. Replace your case every three months or as recommended to avoid bacteria buildup.

Follow the Replacement Schedule

Wearing your contacts longer than recommended can increase your risk of eye infections and irritation. Whether you have daily, biweekly, or monthly lenses, always follow the replacement schedule your optometrist provides. Never sleep in your contacts unless your doctor has approved it.

Watch for Signs of Trouble

If your eyes become red, irritated, or sensitive to light, or if you notice blurry vision or discomfort while wearing contacts, remove them immediately and consult your eye care provider. These could be signs of an eye infection or a problem with your lenses.

Keep Up With Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are important even if your vision feels fine. Your optometrist will check your eye health, ensure your prescription is up to date, and confirm that your lenses are fitting properly. Eye exams are also a great opportunity to explore new contact lens technologies that may offer better comfort, improved oxygen flow, and even options designed to address conditions like dry eye or digital eye strain. Your eye doctor can help you determine if the latest innovations are a good fit for your lifestyle and vision needs.

Ensure Optimal Vision and Eye Health at Texas State Optical

Taking good care of your contact lenses is not just about comfort. It is about protecting your eyes from infections and long term damage. By following these tips and listening to your optometrist’s recommendations, you can enjoy clear, healthy vision every day.

Schedule a contact lens exam with Texas State Optical to ensure your eyes are in top condition. Visit our office in Humble, Texas, or call (281) 360-5151 to book an appointment today.