How to Put on Contacts: A Step-by-Step Guide

Preparing to Put on Contacts

Before putting on contacts, it’s important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water to remove any dirt or bacteria. Dry your hands with a lint-free towel or air dry them to avoid any lint or fibers getting on your contacts.

Next, make sure that you have all the necessary supplies on hand, including your contacts, contact lens solution, and a clean contact lens case. Check the expiration date on the solution and make sure that the case is clean and dry.

If you are new to wearing contacts, it’s a good idea to have someone with you the first few times you put them in, to help guide you through the process and ensure that you’re doing it correctly.

Lastly, ensure that you are in a well-lit area with a flat and clean surface to work on. Avoid putting on your contacts near a sink or any other potential sources of contamination.

Handling Your Contacts

Before handling your contacts, ensure that your hands are clean and dry. Avoid using any oily or perfumed hand creams or lotions, as these can leave residue on your contacts.

When removing your contacts from their case, inspect them carefully to ensure that they are clean and free of any debris. If you notice any tears or damage to your contacts, do not use them and dispose of them properly.

When handling your contacts, use your fingertips and avoid using your nails or sharp objects, as these can scratch or damage your contacts.

If you have difficulty distinguishing between your left and right contacts, use the “one-hand” method. Hold one contact on the tip of your index finger, and hold the other contact on the tip of your middle finger. This will help you differentiate between the two contacts.

Remember to always handle your contacts gently to avoid damaging them, and never share your contacts with anyone else.

Inserting Your Contacts

Start by placing the contact lens on the tip of your index finger. Make sure that the lens is facing the right way by checking that the edges are pointing upwards and that the lens forms a “bowl” shape.

Using your other hand, hold your upper eyelid open and use your middle finger to pull down your lower eyelid. This will help create a larger opening for you to insert the contact.

Place the contact on the lower part of your eye, and look up. This will help the contact slide into place. Once the contact is in place, blink a few times to ensure that it’s comfortable and that your vision is clear.

Repeat the process with your other eye, and make sure that both contacts are comfortable and positioned correctly. If you experience any discomfort or blurred vision, remove the contacts and try again.

If you are having difficulty inserting your contacts, try using a mirror or tilting your head back slightly. With practice, inserting your contacts will become easier and more comfortable.

Removing Your Contacts

Before removing your contacts, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them with a lint-free towel.

To remove your contacts, start by looking up and pulling down your lower eyelid with your middle finger. Using your index finger, gently slide the contact down onto the white part of your eye.

Pinch the contact gently between your thumb and index finger to remove it from your eye. Avoid using your nails or applying too much pressure, as this can damage your contacts.

Repeat the process with your other eye, and be sure to clean and store your contacts properly in a clean case with fresh solution.

If you have difficulty removing your contacts, try using eye drops to help lubricate your eyes and make the process easier. If you continue to have difficulty, contact your eye doctor for assistance.

Proper Care and Maintenance of Contacts

Proper care and maintenance of your contacts are essential for maintaining good eye health and ensuring that your contacts remain comfortable and effective.

Always use fresh contact lens solution and replace your contact lens case every three months. Never reuse old solution or top off the solution in your case, as this can lead to contamination and infection.

Clean your contacts regularly by rubbing them gently with solution and rinsing them thoroughly with fresh solution before storing them in your case. Avoid using tap water, saliva, or other non-sterile solutions to clean your contacts.

Remove your contacts before swimming, showering, or engaging in water activities, as this can increase your risk of infection. Never sleep in your contacts unless your eye doctor has recommended it, as this can cause eye irritation and increase your risk of infection.

Lastly, make sure to attend regular eye exams to ensure that your prescription is up-to-date and to monitor the health of your eyes. If you experience any discomfort or changes in your vision, contact your eye doctor immediately.