Getting started with contact lenses

If you’re having trouble putting in contact lenses, this list should tell you everything you need to know.

1. First wash and dry your hands.
2. Open the foil (for daily disposables) or case lid (for reusable lenses), and scoop your lens out using your index finger.
3. Check the lens looks okay – it should be a bowl shape. If it has a lip, it means it’s inside out.
4. Before you put it on, hold it up and check for any tears or bits of debris.
5. If it’s dirty then use some fresh solution to clean it, but if it’s damaged you’ll have to throw it away.
6. The easiest way to insert your lens is to place it on the tip of your index finger and with your free hand, pull the top eyelid up – this will help you to stop your blinking reaction.
7. Pull your bottom eyelid down and bring the lens towards the centre of your eye. You won’t have to press it onto your eye – it will go into place on its own (good news if you’re a bit squeamish about touching your eye).
8. Once the lens is on move your eyes from side to side and then close them both.
9. This gets rid of any air bubbles trapped under the lens and makes sure it’s in the right position.
10. Then just repeat on the other eye. Easy peasy.

How to take out your contact lenses

You’ve mastered putting them in, but what about taking them out again? Have a look at this list about removing your lenses.

1. Before you do anything, make sure you wash and dry your hands.
2. Look straight into the mirror, tilt your head down slightly and pull your lower eyelid down.
3. Using your finger move the lens down onto the white of your eye and then gently pinch it out.
4. Now just repeat on the other eye. Simple.

How to clean your contact lenses

It’s important to clean and take care of your lenses, so that the risk of eye infection is kept to a minimum. If you wear reusable lenses, your optometrist will give you a cleaning routine to make sure your eyes stay in tip-top condition.

1. After taking out your lenses, rub them gently with a few drops of solution for about 20 seconds.
2. To store your lenses, place them carefully in your contact lens case. The case should be clean and filled with fresh solution.
3. If you’re unsure about the best way to keep your lenses and case clean, check the instructions on your solution to make sure you’re doing everything exactly as you should.
4. Don’t forget: never use tap water to clean your lenses or contact lens case as this can lead to eye infections.

Tips for comfortable wearing

• Check that the prescription on the lens packaging is correct
• Check your contact lens solution instructions before use
• Wash and dry your hands before handling your lenses or touching your eye
• Insert your lenses before applying eye make-up
• Return for all the aftercare visits recommended by your optometrist
• Contact us if you have any concerns or queries, however trivial they may seem
• Stop wearing your lenses if your eyes become red or sore – contact your optometrist for advice
• Throw away your lenses after the recommended period
• Clean your lens case regularly and allow it to air dry
• Replace your lens case regularly
• Replace the tops of solution bottles after use
• Use fresh solution to store your lenses
• Dispose of solution bottles after the recommended period