How to Wear Contact Lenses

For those who are wearing contact lenses for the first time or planning to wear them, the common question is how to put them on.

If you are a first-time wearer, the process may seem a bit unfamiliar initially. This is because our reflexes try to move objects away when they come close to our eyes.

First, relax. Wearing lenses is very simple. Here is a step-by-step guide. It might take a few tries, but you’ll soon be able to do it easily.

Instead of thinking of putting the contact lenses into your eyes, think of placing them on your eyes. This way, the lenses will sit comfortably and provide clear vision. Now, let's look at the actual steps. This is the easiest way to wear contact lenses.

• Wash your hands.
  Make sure no dust, bacteria, or makeup gets on the contact lenses to avoid itchy eyes. Use clean soap and avoid lotion or perfume. Rinse your hands well and dry them. This also prevents foreign substances from entering your eyes. Now, let's wear the lenses.

• Always start with the same eye.
  Contact lenses are worn on each eye differently. Like shoes, you can't interchange the two lenses. Since the two lenses may look identical, if you are right-handed, start with the right eye, and if you are left-handed, start with the left eye. Always insert the lenses in the same order to avoid switching them. This is easier for first-time wearers.

• Carefully place the lens on your finger.
  Place the contact lens on your index finger. If the lens is curved upwards like a bowl, you’re almost there. Now, clean the lens with the solution and you're ready to wear it.

• Hold your eyelid and insert the lens.
  Use the other hand to hold up your eyelid and insert the lens. Most people tend to look away when the lens comes close to the eye. It’s okay to do that or to look straight at the lens. Both ways are fine.

• Blink and smile.
  Naturally blink and check in the mirror. If the lens feels comfortable and looks good, then you’ve done it correctly.

Let’s talk about some misconceptions regarding contact lenses:

What if the lens goes behind my eye?

Simply put, this cannot happen. It’s impossible. The conjunctiva covering the white part of your eye prevents this from happening.

Can the lens keep falling out of my eye?

No, it cannot. You might have seen hard contact lenses pop out in old movies or TV shows. In reality, this is very unlikely, especially with modern soft contact lenses.

Ulenspop hopes these tips on wearing contact lenses help and clear up any misconceptions you might have. Like trying anything new, the more you practice, the easier it will become to wear contact lenses. Soon, it will become a habit.