Wearing contact lenses is a comfortable and effective alternative to eyeglasses for millions of people seeking vision correction. While handling lenses may initially seem challenging, the procedure is straightforward and becomes routine with practice. Maintaining proper technique and hygiene is paramount to ensure both clear vision and the long-term health of your eyes. This guide details the steps for safely inserting and removing your lenses, along with protocols for maintaining their cleanliness.
Preparation and Safety Checklist
Before handling any contact lens, thoroughly wash your hands with mild, non-moisturizing soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Soaps containing fragrances or oils can leave residues that transfer to the lens surface, causing eye irritation. Dry your hands completely with a clean, lint-free towel to prevent transferring debris or pathogens to the lens.
Next, inspect the lens orientation by placing it on the tip of your index finger. A correctly oriented lens forms a smooth, rounded bowl shape with edges pointing straight up. If the edges flare outward, the lens is inside out and must be gently flipped. You can also perform the “taco test” by gently folding the lens between your thumb and index finger; if the edges meet cleanly, the lens is correctly oriented.
Step-by-Step Guide to Insertion
Position the lens securely on the pad of your dominant hand’s index finger. It is helpful to establish a routine of always starting with the same eye, such as the right eye, to avoid mixing up lenses with different prescriptions.
Use the middle finger of your dominant hand to gently pull down your lower eyelid near the lash line. Simultaneously, use the index or middle finger of your non-dominant hand to lift and hold your upper eyelid near the brow. This technique creates a wide-open space for lens application.
With both eyelids held open, slowly bring the finger holding the lens toward your eye while looking straight ahead or slightly upward. Gently touch the lens to the center of your cornea, or the white of your eye (sclera) if preferred; the lens should adhere naturally to the moist surface. Slowly release the lower eyelid first, then the upper eyelid. Blink softly a few times to allow the lens to center itself and settle into position.
Safe Removal Techniques
Repeat the handwashing and drying procedure before attempting removal to maintain a hygienic environment. If your eyes feel dry, applying a few drops of approved rewetting solution can moisten the lens, making it easier to manipulate.
The pinch technique is the most common method for soft lens removal, requiring you to hold your eyelids open as you did for insertion. Look straight ahead, and gently touch the lens with the pads of your index finger and thumb on opposite sides. Lightly squeeze the lens together, causing it to fold slightly, and then lift it away from the eye.
The slide method is an alternative if you are hesitant about pinching the lens directly on the cornea. Hold your eyelids open, look up, and use your index finger to gently touch the bottom edge of the lens. Slide the lens down onto the white part of your eye (sclera). Once the lens is on the sclera, use the pads of your thumb and index finger to gently pinch it off. Never use your fingernails, as this can lead to a corneal abrasion.
Essential Lens Care and Hygiene
The care routine begins immediately after removal to prevent microbial contamination and the buildup of protein deposits. Place the removed lens in the palm of your hand and apply a few drops of fresh, prescribed contact lens solution. Gently rub the lens with your finger for the time specified by your eye care professional or the solution manufacturer to dislodge debris.
Rinse the lens thoroughly with more solution before placing it into a clean lens case filled with fresh disinfecting solution. Never reuse old solution or attempt to “top off” the liquid in the case, as this significantly reduces the solution’s effectiveness and increases infection risk.
The lens case itself must be rinsed with solution, air-dried, and replaced at least every three months to minimize bacterial contamination. Following the prescribed replacement schedule—whether daily, bi-weekly, or monthly—is important to ensure the lenses remain safe for wear.