Contact Lens Care 101: Best Practices for Comfort and Hygiene

Contact lenses provide a convenient and comfortable way to correct vision without the need for glasses. However, improper care can lead to discomfort, infections, and even serious eye conditions. To ensure the longevity of your lenses and the health of your eyes, follow these best practices for contact lens hygiene and comfort.


Wash and Dry Your Hands Thoroughly

Before handling your contact lenses, always wash your hands with soap and water. Avoid using moisturizing or scented soaps, as they can leave residues that may irritate your eyes. Dry your hands with a lint-free towel before touching your lenses to prevent debris from transferring to your eyes.


Clean and Store Lenses Properly

If you wear reusable lenses, clean and store them using the appropriate multi-purpose (like Opti-Free or Biotrue) or hydrogen peroxide-based solution (like Alcon CLEAR CARE or CLEAR CARE PLUS). Never use tap water or saliva to rinse your lenses, as these can introduce harmful bacteria. Rub and rinse your lenses with the cleaning solution before placing them in a clean case filled with fresh solution.

Our eye doctors usually recommend:
 

  • For soft contact lenses: B&L Biotrue Multipurpose Solution or Alcon Opti-Free PureMoist Multipurpose Solution
  • For Rigid Permeable (RGP) lenses: B&L Boston SIMPLUS Multi-Action solution or Menicon Unique pH Multipurpose solution

 

Replace Your Contact Lens Case Regularly

Your contact lens case can harbor bacteria if not cleaned properly. Rinse it with fresh solution daily, allow it to air dry, and replace it every three months to reduce the risk of contamination. Do not use tap water to rinse your case.


Follow the Recommended Wearing Schedule

Different types of contact lenses have specific replacement schedules—daily, bi-weekly, or monthly. Never exceed the recommended duration, as lenses accumulate deposits and bacteria over time. Sleeping in contacts that are not designed for extended wear can increase the risk of eye infections and corneal damage.


Typical symptoms of bacterial infections include swollen, itchy burning or red eyes, watery eyes with possible foreign body sensation, discharge, light or air sensitivity, acute pain, sticky eyes.


Our doctors recommend daily contact lenses as the most hygienic modality because you do not need to worry about improper cleaning or storing issues. Daily contact lenses are also a great option if you are an infrequent contact lens wearer, as you can buy a small quantity (30 days or 90 days) that may last you a whole year.


Avoid Water Exposure

Water contains microorganisms that can adhere to your contact lenses and cause infections. Avoid wearing lenses while swimming, showering, or using a hot tub. If you must wear contacts in water, consider using tight-fitting goggles or switching to daily disposables for single-use convenience.


Acanthamoeba infection is the most dangerous type of eye infection you can get from swimming in your contact lenses or washing your contact lenses with water. Within 24 hours, acanthamoeba quickly damages your cornea and may cause corneal scarring after your cornea heals. In the worst cases, acanthamoeba can cause permanent vision loss.


Give Your Eyes a Break

Wearing contact lenses for extended periods can lead to dryness and irritation. Follow your eye doctor’s recommendations for daily wear time, and if you experience discomfort, consider using lubricating eye drops formulated for contact lenses, preferably preservative-free. If your eyes feel persistently dry or irritated, consult your optometrist.


Our offices has a clinical focus on dry eye and meibomian gland-related issues. We have advanced diagnostic equipment and treatment options to bring you longer-lasting relief.


Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Routine eye exams ensure that your prescription is up-to-date and that your eyes remain healthy. Your optometrist can also assess whether your current contact lenses are still suitable for your needs and address any issues you may be experiencing.


Maintaining Healthy Eyes and Clear Vision with Iris Bright Optometry

Proper contact lens care is essential for maintaining both clear vision and eye health. By following these best practices, you can enjoy the convenience of contact lenses without compromising comfort or hygiene.


If you have questions about your contact lens routine or need a prescription update, schedule a contact lens exam with Iris Bright Optometry. Contact either of our offices in Irvine, CA at (949) 585-9403 or in El Cajon, CA at (619) 447-8494 to book an appointment today. We accept most vision insurance.

 

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