The initial switch from glasses to contact lenses offers freedom and a wider field of vision, but it requires a period of physical adaptation. Contact lenses sit directly on the cornea, meaning the eye must acclimate to the presence of a foreign material. This adjustment process typically takes anywhere from a few days up to two weeks for most new wearers of soft lenses.
Mastering Insertion and Removal Techniques
Mastering the mechanical process of putting lenses in and taking them out is the first step toward comfort. Before touching the lenses or your eyes, always wash your hands thoroughly with a mild, non-fragranced soap. Dry them with a lint-free towel to prevent the transfer of oils, lotions, or germs, minimizing the risk of infection.
To prepare the lens for insertion, place it on the tip of your index or middle finger and check that it is not inside out; it should resemble a perfect bowl. Use one hand to gently hold the upper eyelid open and a finger from the other hand to pull the lower lid down. Look straight ahead or slightly upward, then gently place the lens directly onto the center of the eye.
For removal, start with clean hands. Look up toward the ceiling and use a finger to gently slide the lens down to the white part of the eye. Once the lens is off the cornea, gently pinch it between the pads of your thumb and index finger to lift it away.
Implementing the Gradual Wearing Schedule
Allowing the eye to gradually adjust to the lens material and oxygen transmission is fundamental to the adaptation period. Your eye care professional will prescribe a specific wearing schedule designed to prevent irritation and corneal stress, such as swelling or hypoxia, which occur if the eye is not given time to adjust.
A typical schedule suggests starting with only two to four hours of wear on the first day. This initial duration allows the eye to become accustomed to the physical presence of the lens. The prescribed wear time should then be increased incrementally, often by two hours each subsequent day, until the maximum recommended daily wear time is reached.
Adhering to this slow increase is necessary for corneal health. If discomfort arises, removing the lenses and resting the eyes is preferable to forcing extended wear, which hinders long-term adjustment. Soft lenses are easier to adapt to, with comfort usually achieved within a couple of weeks.
Essential Tips for Comfort During Adjustment
Maximizing comfort involves adopting specific habits that support the eye’s natural function while wearing lenses. One effective technique is conscious, complete blinking, which is often reduced while concentrating on screens or reading. A full blink spreads the tear film evenly across the lens surface, keeping it hydrated and removing small debris, which minimizes dryness.
Using rewetting drops, formulated to be safe with contact lenses, provides immediate relief if eyes feel dry. These drops supplement natural tears and restore moisture to the lens, improving clarity and comfort. Use them proactively, especially during long periods of screen time or in dry environments.
Maintaining hydration by drinking enough water also supports tear production. Avoid environmental irritants like smoke, dust, or direct blasts of dry air. If you wear makeup, insert lenses before applying cosmetics and remove them before taking off makeup to prevent residue transfer.
Troubleshooting Common First-Time Issues
New wearers may encounter common issues requiring immediate action to maintain comfort and eye health. If a lens feels like it is moving or causing discomfort, it may be inside out, preventing it from sitting correctly. Simply remove the lens, check for the proper bowl shape, rinse it with fresh solution, and reinsert it.
Persistent redness, tearing, or a sharp, gritty sensation means the lens should be removed immediately. These symptoms can be caused by debris trapped under the lens, a small tear, or an allergic reaction to the cleaning solution. If irritation does not subside quickly after removal and eye rest, or if vision becomes blurry, contact an eye care professional.
If a lens seems stuck due to dryness, apply a few drops of rewetting solution or saline to moisturize it, allowing it to move freely for removal. Never use tap water to rinse or store lenses, as it contains microorganisms that can cause severe infection. If persistent issues like dryness or cloudiness continue for more than two weeks, seek an evaluation from your eye care provider.