Wearing contact lenses can provide a convenient and effective way to correct vision without the need for glasses. However, it is essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure the safety and comfort of your eyes.

Whether you are a new or long-time wearer, here are the do’s and don’ts of wearing contact lenses.

Do: Visit an eye care professional

Prior to getting contact lenses, visit an eye care professional. They will conduct a comprehensive eye examination and determine the correct prescription based on your needs. They will also guide you on proper wearing and care instructions.

Never share your contact lenses with anyone, even if they have the same prescription as you. The lenses are custom-fitted to your eyes and sharing them can lead to eye infections and other complications.

Do: Wash your hands before handling

Always wash your hands with soap and water before inserting or removing your contact lenses. This helps prevent any dirt or bacteria from entering your eyes, reducing the risk of infections.

Don’t: Sleep with your lenses on

Avoid sleeping with your contact lenses on unless prescribed by your eye care professional. Sleeping with lenses can restrict the oxygen flow to your eyes, leading to corneal infections and swelling.

Do: Clean your lenses regularly

Follow the recommended cleaning and disinfecting routine for your contact lenses. Use the solution prescribed by your eye care professional and never use tap water or saliva to clean them, as they can introduce harmful bacteria or debris.

Don’t: Wear lenses beyond their expiry date

Always check the expiry date of your contact lenses and discard them as instructed. Using expired lenses can cause discomfort, blurry vision, and increase the risk of eye infections.

Do: Remove lenses before swimming

Avoid wearing contact lenses while swimming, as there is a risk of contamination from water-borne microorganisms, leading to severe eye infections. Use swimming goggles instead.

Don’t: Use damaged or torn lenses

Inspect your contact lenses before wearing them. If you notice any signs of damage or tearing, discard them immediately. Wearing damaged lenses can cause irritation, scratches on the cornea, and eye infections.

Do: Attend regular eye check-ups

Make sure to schedule regular eye check-ups with your eye care professional. They will assess the health of your eyes and ensure your contact lenses are fitting properly, providing the best possible vision correction.

Don’t: Ignore any discomfort or irritation

If you experience any discomfort, redness, or irritation while wearing your contact lenses, remove them immediately. Continuing to wear lenses that are causing discomfort can lead to corneal abrasions and more severe eye problems.

Do: Replace your lens case regularly

Regularly replace your lens case every few months to prevent the buildup of bacteria. Clean your lens case with solution after every use, and let it air dry to avoid contamination.