Ordering Contacts Online: A Guide for Newbies
This post was last updated on July 14th, 2023
Are you new to wearing contact lenses?
Maybe you’ve decided to give them a try, or perhaps you’re just looking for some more information before taking the plunge. Either way, this guide is for you!
This post will cover the basics of contact lenses, including the different types available and how to put them in and take them off. We’ll also cover some do’s and don’ts of contact lens wearing.
By the time you finish reading this post, you’ll be ready to take the next step in your contact lens journey to improve your quality of life.
Types of Contact Lenses
Contact lenses are a popular alternative to glasses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says there are approximately 45 million contact lens wearers in the United States.
Contact lenses come in various types to suit different needs. There are two main types:
Soft Lenses
These are made of a gel-like material that is soft and pliable. They conform to the shape of your eye and are very comfortable to wear.
Soft lenses are perfect for people who are new to wearing contacts, as they are easier to insert and remove than other lenses.
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses
These are made of hard, plastic material. They don’t conform to the shape of your eye and can take some time to get used to wearing. However, they provide excellent vision and are very durable.
RGP lenses are ideal for people with refractive errors such as astigmatism or other vision problems that cannot be corrected with soft lenses.
There are also specialty lenses for people with certain vision problems, such as presbyopia. And finally, there are disposable lenses or daily contact lenses. Disposable contacts are only worn for a day or two before being thrown away.
With a wide range of options available, there’s sure to be a contact lens that’s right for you.
How to Put in Contact Lenses
Now that you know a little bit about the different types of contact lenses, let’s talk about how to put them in.
Inserting soft contact lenses is relatively straightforward:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Remove the lens from its case and inspect it for any tears or damage
- Place the lens on your index finger and hold it up to your eye
- Use your other hand to pull back your eyelid, then gently place the lens on your eye
- Release your eyelid and blink a few times to help settle the lens into place
- Repeat these steps for the other eye
- RGP lenses are a bit more difficult to insert, but with a little practice, it will become easier
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Remove the lens from its case and inspect it for any tears or damage
- Wet the lens with saline solution or artificial tears (this will help it slide into place more easily)
- Place the lens on your index finger and hold it up to your eye
- Use your other hand to pull back your eyelid, then gently place the lens on your eye
- Release your eyelid and blink a few times to help settle the lens into place
- Repeat these steps for the other eye
How to Remove Contact Lenses
Once you’re done wearing your lenses for the day, it’s time to take them out. The process is similar for both soft and RGP lenses:
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water
- Place your index finger on the lens and gently slide it down to the white of your eye
- Pinch the lens between your thumb and index finger and lift it off your eye
- Repeat these steps for the other eye
- Clean your lenses with saline solution or artificial tears (this will help remove any debris or build-up)
- Store your lenses in their case until you’re ready to wear them again
How to Clean Your Contacts
Keeping your contact lenses clean is important, as this will help prevent infection and irritation.
The best way to clean your lenses is with saline solution or artificial tears. Simply remove your lenses from their case and soak them in the contact solution for a few minutes.
Then, use your fingers to rub the lenses and remove any debris gently. Rinse the lenses with the solution and put them back in their case.
You should also clean your contact lens case regularly. Simply remove the lid and soak it in saline solution or artificial tears for a few minutes.
Then, use a soft cloth to wipe away any debris. Rinse the case with the solution and allow it to air dry.
The Risks of Wearing Contact Lenses
While contact lenses are generally safe, a few risks are associated with wearing them.
The most common complication is dry eye, which can cause irritation, redness, and blurred vision. Other risks include infection, corneal ulcers, and scratches on the eye.
Most of these complications can be avoided by following the proper care instructions for your lenses. It’s also equally important to choose high-quality contact lens care products.
See your doctor immediately if you experience irritation or pain while wearing contact lenses.
Caring for Your Contact Lenses
To ensure that your contact lenses last as long as possible, it’s important to take care of them properly.
Here are a few tips:
- Don’t expose your lenses to water, as this can cause them to deteriorate
- Don’t wear your lenses for longer than your eye doctor recommends
- Don’t sleep in your lenses unless you use extended-wear lenses
- Don’t share your lenses with anyone, as this can cause infection
- Follow the cleaning and storage instructions that come with your lenses
- Store your lenses in a cool, dry place
- See your eye doctor regularly for checkups
The Do’s and Don’ts of Contact Lens Wearing
Now that you know how to put in your contact lenses, here are a few tips to help you get the most out of them:
- Do clean your lenses daily using a lens cleaning solution
- Do store your lenses in a clean, dry place when you’re not wearing them
- Do see an eye care professional for regular checkups
- Don’t buy contact lenses without a contact lens prescription
- Don’t wear your lenses for longer than recommended by your doctor
- Don’t sleep in your lenses unless they are specifically designed for overnight wear
- Don’t use tap water to clean your lenses
- Don’t store your lenses in water
By following these tips, you can enjoy comfortable, healthy contact lens wear for years to come!
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