Contact Lens Care 101: Best Practices for Cleaning and Maintenance

Contact lenses have revolutionized the way we see the world, providing a convenient and comfortable alternative to traditional eyeglasses. However, with this new-found freedom comes the responsibility of proper care and maintenance.
 

The Importance of Proper Contact Lens Care

Proper contact lens care is crucial for maintaining not only the clarity of your vision but also the health of your eyes. Failure to adhere to recommended cleaning and maintenance practices can lead to a variety of eye infections and complications that can be both uncomfortable and potentially sight threatening. By taking the time to care for your contact lenses, you are investing in the longevity of your eye health.
 

One of the main reasons contact lens care is so important is because they come into direct contact with your eyes. This close proximity creates the perfect environment for bacteria, debris, and other irritants to accumulate on the surface of the lenses. Without regular cleaning, these particles can build up and cause discomfort, redness, and even infections. Additionally, improper care can lead to the development of protein deposits on the lenses, which can further impair vision and cause discomfort.
 

Best Practices for Cleaning Contact Lenses

Cleaning your contact lenses should be a part of your daily routine to maintain their cleanliness and ensure optimal vision. Follow these best practices to keep your contact lenses in pristine condition:
 

• Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling your contact lenses. This will minimize the risk of transferring any dirt or bacteria onto the lenses.
• Use a recommended contact lens solution to clean and disinfect your lenses. Avoid using tap water, saline solution, or any homemade cleaning solutions as they may contain harmful microorganisms.
• Rub your contact lenses gently with your fingertips while they are immersed in the solution. This will help remove any debris or protein deposits that may have accumulated on the surface of the lenses.
• Rinse your contact lenses thoroughly with the solution to remove any loosened debris or cleaning solution residue.

Tips for Handling and Storing Contact Lenses

Proper handling and storage of your contact lenses can significantly impact their lifespan and your overall eye health. Follow these tips to ensure you are taking the best care of your lenses:
 

• Avoid touching your contact lenses with dirty or wet hands. Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses to minimize the risk of contamination.
• Use only fresh contact lens solution to rinse and store your lenses. Reusing old solution can introduce bacteria and reduce the effectiveness of the disinfecting properties.
• Replace your contact lens case every three months or as recommended by your eye care professional. A clean and well-maintained case reduces the risk of bacterial contamination.
• Avoid exposing your contact lenses to water, including tap water, swimming pools, and hot tubs. Water can introduce microorganisms that can cause eye infections.
• Remove your contact lenses before engaging in any activities that may cause them to come into contact with foreign substances, such as applying makeup or using aerosol sprays.

By following these simple yet essential tips, you can ensure the longevity of your contact lenses and minimize the risk of eye infections or complications.
 

The Role of Regular Eye Exams in Contact Lens Care

Regular eye exams are an integral part of contact lens care and maintenance. Here are a few reasons why regular eye exams are crucial for contact lens wearers:
 

• Prescription update: Your eye care professional will assess the health of your eyes and determine if any changes in your prescription are required. Wearing contact lenses with an outdated prescription can lead to blurred vision and discomfort.
• Lens fit and comfort: Your eye care professional will evaluate the fit and comfort of your contact lenses. Ill-fitting lenses can cause dryness, irritation, and even damage to the cornea.
• Eye health assessment: Regular eye exams allow your eye care professional to monitor the overall health of your eyes. They can detect potential issues early on, such as dry eye syndrome, corneal abrasions, or infections, and provide appropriate treatment.
• Education and guidance: Eye exams provide an opportunity to discuss any concerns or questions you may have regarding your contact lenses. Your eye care professional can offer personalized advice on proper care, troubleshooting, and recommendations for lens types or solutions.

By prioritizing regular eye exams, you can ensure that your contact lens-wearing experience is comfortable, safe, and beneficial for your overall eye health.
 

Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam with Turcotte Martin Eye Today

Caring for your contact lenses is not just about maintaining clear vision; it is about safeguarding your eye health. By following the best practices for cleaning and maintenance, you can enjoy the benefits of contact lenses while minimizing the risk of complications.
 

Schedule your next eye exam to ensure your contact lens-wearing experience is safe and beneficial for your overall eye health, visit Turcotte Martin Eye at our office in Hyde Park or Boston, Massachusetts. Please call (617) 361-0618 or (617) 609-0095 to book an appointment today.