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Contact lens are thin pieces of transparent plastic that redirect light entering your eye so it focuses directly on the retina. This corrects refractive errors like nearsightedness and farsightedness.
To put a contact lens in, wash your hands thoroughly and cup your hand. Tip the lens from its storage case into your cupped palm and place it on the white of your eyeball.
Lenses are a medical device
Because they come into direct contact with your eye, contact lenses are considered medical devices and subject to rigorous regulatory oversight. This includes physiochemical and manufacturing testing alongside clinical investigations and strict conditions for marketing approval.
Unlike glasses, which obscure the sides of your eyes, contacts allow you to see more of the world around you. They also tend to be more comfortable, as they don’t fog up with changes in temperature or perspiration.
These are rigid lenses that change the shape of your cornea and temporarily correct your vision. They rest on the sclera and can only be worn overnight, or according to an approved schedule, so you should talk to your eye care specialist about the best maintenance schedule for you. Often, these lenses are prescribed in combination with other contact lens types to improve their efficacy.
They correct vision
Contact lenses correct vision by focusing rays of light directly onto the retina to provide clear, sharp eyesight. They correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. They are made of plastic and other materials that firmly maintain their shape and allow oxygen to reach the cornea.
New contact lens wearers may experience blurriness while adjusting to the lenses. This is usually caused by dryness and can be alleviated with lubricating eye drops or over-the-counter artificial tears.
Many types of contact lenses are available for different eye conditions and purposes. Cosmetic (plano) lenses change the color of the eyes and can be worn for fun, while other kinds are designed to help with special vision needs. You should always have your eyes examined and fitted by an experienced eye care professional before wearing any type of contact lenses.
They stay on your eye
Unlike glasses, contact lenses stay on the eye because of capillary attraction. The lens clings to the wet surface of the cornea and moves with your eye when you blink. This is a very convenient and natural way to correct vision.
However, it’s possible to lose a contact lens, especially if it’s not properly removed. You can also have a lens that is stuck in the back of your eye. In this case, you should ask your doctor for help.
Before attempting to remove a contact lens, always wash and dry your hands. This will reduce the risk of bacteria getting in your eyes. Also, use rewetting drops or artificial tears that are designed for contact lens wearers to float the lens and make it easier to remove.
They’re easy to put in
While putting contact lenses in might seem daunting at first, it becomes easier with practice. Start by washing your hands and choosing a space where you can apply your lenses. It should be a clean, well-lit area. It’s important to use your fingers rather than your nails when handling your contacts to avoid scratching them.
Examine the lens closely to make sure it’s clean and doesn’t have any torn spots. It should also be oriented correctly. If it looks like a bowl with the edges turned up, it’s ready to be applied.
Position the lens on the index finger of your dominant hand. Look up and lift your upper eyelid with your non-dominant hand. Then, using your dominant hand, pull down the lower eyelid while holding the contact lens.
They’re easy to clean
The proper care of your lenses is an important aspect of eye health and vision. Make sure to follow the recommended regimen of rinsing, cleaning, disinfection and storage. This includes regular contact lens exams and replacements.
Most soft contact lens wearers use multipurpose solution, which cleans and disinfects lenses in one chemical product. This is the most popular option and works well for many people. It is also affordable and convenient.
Some contact lens wearers use hydrogen peroxide-based solutions, like Clear Care, for enhanced cleaning. These products are preservative-free and appeal to people who avoid preservatives in their diets and household items. They are also effective at disinfecting the lenses when used for the recommended soaking time. Remember to never “top off” your solution; this increases the risk of bacterial contamination.
