Contact lenses offer freedom from glasses and can be a great option for many people. But because they sit directly on the surface of your eye, they need to be handled with care.
The good news is that most contact lens-related problems are preventable. Following a few simple hygiene and care habits can help reduce your risk of eye irritation, infections, and other complications.
Here are five common contact lens mistakes that eye care professionals see too often and ways to avoid them.
1. Sleeping in your contact lenses
You can at times feel it is fine to leave your lenses in for a quick nap or even overnight, especially after a long day. However, sleeping in contact lenses can significantly increase the risk of eye problems.
When your eyes are closed, less oxygen reaches the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye. Contact lenses can further reduce oxygen flow, creating an environment where bacteria may thrive.
Unless your optometrist or ophthalmologist has specifically prescribed lenses designed for overnight wear, it is best to remove them before sleeping, even if it is just for a short nap.
If you accidentally fall asleep in your lenses, remove them as soon as possible. If your eyes feel dry or the lenses seem stuck, use lubricating drops if recommended and seek professional advice if you experience redness, pain, blurred vision, or light sensitivity.
2. Wearing contact lenses in the shower or pool
Many people don’t realise that water can be harmful when it comes into contact with contact lenses. Whether it is tap water, a swimming pool, the ocean or a hot tub, water can contain microorganisms that may stick to your lenses and increase the risk of infection.
For this reason, it is best to remove your lenses before:
- Showering
- Swimming
- Using a spa or hot tub
- Participating in water sports
- Washing your face when water may enter your eyes
You should also never rinse or store your lenses in tap water. Contact lens solution is specifically designed to clean and disinfect lenses safely.
If you enjoy swimming and need vision correction, ask your eye care professional about prescription swimming goggles or other suitable alternatives.
3. Handling lenses without washing your hands
Your hands come into contact with countless surfaces throughout the day, picking up dirt, oils and bacteria along the way.
Touching your lenses with unwashed hands can transfer these contaminants directly onto the lens and into your eye, increasing the risk of irritation and infection.
Before handling your lenses:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Rinse away any soap residue
- Dry your hands with a clean, lint-free towel
- Handle your lenses carefully
It is also a good idea to avoid applying hand cream immediately before inserting or removing lenses, as oils and fragrances can transfer onto the lens surface.
If you wear makeup, put your contact lenses in before applying makeup and remove them before taking it off.
4. Reusing old solution or using the wrong products
When it comes to cleaning your lenses, shortcuts are never worth the risk.
A common mistake is “topping up” old solution in the lens case instead of replacing it completely. Mixing fresh solution with old solution reduces its effectiveness and may allow bacteria to survive.
Each time you store your lenses:
- Empty the case completely.
- Rinse and clean the case as recommended.
- Refill it with fresh solution.
You should never clean lenses with:
- Tap water
- Saliva
- Soap or household cleaners
- Homemade saline solutions
Different lens types may also require specific cleaning products, so always use the solution recommended by your eye care professional.
And remember, daily disposable lenses should be thrown away after each use. They are not designed to be cleaned and reused.
5. Ignoring discomfort or wearing lenses too long
Contact lenses should feel comfortable. If your eyes become sore, red, watery, or irritated, don’t simply push through the discomfort.
Wearing lenses longer than recommended can lead to a build-up of deposits, reduced oxygen flow, and an increased risk of complications.
Make sure you:
- Follow the replacement schedule prescribed for your lenses.
- Remove your lenses if they become uncomfortable.
- Attend regular contact lens reviews and eye examinations.
If symptoms continue after removing your lenses, seek professional advice promptly.
Redness, pain, light sensitivity, discharge, or sudden blurred vision should never be ignored, as these symptoms may indicate a serious eye problem that requires urgent treatment.
Simple habits for healthy contact lens wear
Looking after your eyes doesn’t have to be complicated. A few good habits can make a big difference.
Do:
- Wash and dry your hands before touching your lenses
- Use fresh contact lens solution every time
- Replace your lenses according to schedule
- Replace your storage case regularly
- Carry a backup pair of glasses
- Attend routine eye examinations
Don’t:
- Sleep in your lenses unless specifically advised
- Shower or swim while wearing lenses
- Reuse old solution
- Share lenses with anyone else
- Ignore redness, pain or vision changes
Keep your eyes safe and comfortable
Contact lenses are safe and effective when used correctly, but small mistakes can sometimes lead to big problems.
By following proper lens care habits and attending regular eye examinations, you can help protect your vision and enjoy comfortable lens wear for years to come.
