Essential Tips for First-Time Contact Lens Wearers
Eyemastr Eye Care Blog | Dubai, UAE
Wearing contact lenses for the first time can feel both exciting and a little intimidating. While it offers the freedom of clear vision without the need for glasses, the process of inserting and removing lenses can be a new and unfamiliar experience. At Eyemastr, we want to make your transition smooth and safe. Here are some essential tips every first-time contact lens wearer should know.
1. Understand the Type and Duration of Your Lenses
Not all contact lenses are the same. Some are designed for daily wear, while others may last for a week or even a month. It’s crucial to follow your ophthalmologist’s recommendation on which type is best for you and how long you should wear them. Never extend the use of daily disposables beyond a day, as this can increase your risk of infections or complications.
2. Always Wash Your Hands First
Before touching your lenses, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Avoid using lotions, creams, or hand sanitizers before handling your lenses, as these can transfer residue to the lens surface and cause irritation or blurry vision. Clean, dry hands help prevent contamination and protect your eyes from harmful bacteria.
3. Insert Lenses with Care
To avoid mixing up lenses, always start with the same eye—left or right—each time. Use your index finger to gently place the lens on your eye. Pull down your lower eyelid with your middle finger, and use your other hand to lift your upper eyelid. Place the lens gently on the eye and blink a few times to help it settle. If you feel discomfort, the lens may be inside-out or not positioned correctly—remove, rinse, and reinsert it.
4. How to Remove Lenses Safely
Ensure your hands are clean before removing your contact lenses. Look slightly upward, pull down your lower eyelid, and slide the lens to the white part of your eye. Gently pinch it using your thumb and index finger. For rigid gas-permeable lenses, tilt your head and blink firmly to let the lens fall into your palm.
5. Clean and Store Lenses Properly
Always clean reusable lenses with a doctor-recommended multipurpose or hydrogen peroxide solution. Never use tap water, as it may contain harmful microbes. Rub and rinse lenses before storing them in a clean lens case. Make sure to clean the case itself regularly and replace it every 3 months.
Do not:
- Reuse old solution
- Touch lenses with wet or soapy hands
- Allow solution to come in direct contact with your eyes (especially hydrogen peroxide)
6. Follow Up with Your Eye Specialist
If you face discomfort, blurry vision, redness, or irritation, consult your eye doctor immediately. It’s best to return to the specialist who prescribed your lenses. If they’re unavailable, reach out to another certified eye specialist in Dubai for guidance.
Final Thoughts
Getting comfortable with contact lenses takes time and practice. By following proper hygiene and wearing habits, you’ll soon enjoy the benefits of clear, hassle-free vision. For expert eye care advice and lens fittings in Dubai, connect with Eyemastr—your trusted partner in eye health.
