6 Important Ways of Caring for Contact Lenses

First introduced in the ‘50s, contact lenses have slowly replaced glasses as the thing to wear for those who need vision correction ands till want to stay fashionable. And while continuous research has unearthed better materials and a wealth of design options for contact lenses, it has also brought new insight into proper lens care.

For example, the compound Thimerosal that is contained in some local contact lens care solutions was first found to be an effective anti-microbial agent and preservative for contact lenses. However, a recent U.S. study has shown that overexposure to it can cause extreme eye infection and allergy to contact lens wearers. This is because of its mercury content that attacks the fundamental bonds (sulfur bonds) or cells and destroys them, leaving the eyes exposed to microbes. So before subscribing to a certain solution, it is best to consult the doctor first.

Like other medical devices, contact lenses should be handled and used with care since they can help assure you a lifetime of healthy eyes.

Aside form the basic steps of cleaning, rinsing, disinfecting, and storing to keep lenses free from bacteria, there are also other things that should be considered in handling contact lenses.

1. It is important that contact lens wearers wash their hand thoroughly before handling their lenses. Soaps that contain cream, deodorant chemicals, antiseptics or heavy fragrances should be avoided as small amounts of these substances may be transferred from the hands to the lenses then the eyes.

2. If you use cosmetics, use only those labeled “hypoallergenic,” “for contact lens wearer,” or “for sensitive eyes only.” Cosmetics should also be applied after the lenses have been inserted. This lessens the risk of lens soiling and tearing.

3. Hairspray, deodorant, cologne, mousse, nail polish and nail polish remover should be applied before inserting the lenses.

4. Most importantly, comply strictly with the lens care prescribed by the eye care professional. Only use recommended products and procedures.

5. And just as the type of contact lens that best suits an individual depends on those prescribed by an eye care professional, their personal wear and care regimen also depends on them. This is because the doctor alone knows the nature of the vision problem being corrected and the individual’s unique eye chemistry.

6. To maintain a problem-free, long-term contact lens wear, it is recommended to have periodic follow-up visits to an eye care professional.