The Spectator

13th – 19th June is Love Your Lenses Week, a week dedicated to loving your contact lenses!

Millions of people wear contact lenses worldwide everyday due to their simplicity and convenience. From everyday wearers to those who use them for sports and other activities, contact lenses offer freedom from the restrictions that often come with wearing spectacles. 

There are many different types of contact lenses available from daily lenses, to monthly, to myopia management. The right type of contact lenses for your prescription and needs will be advised by your eyecare practitioner, who will recommend regular aftercare appointments to assess your vision, and eye health when wearing contact lenses.

In order for contact lenses to be comfortable and worn safely they do require proper care and a good hygiene practice should be followed to reduce the risk of infection. The basics of contact lens care are the same whether you wear daily or reusable contact lenses. Stick to the tips listed below and keep your eyes healthy.

• Attend regular aftercare appointments as advised by your eyecare practitioner.
• Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before inserting and removing contact lenses.
• Check the lens is not damaged and the correct way round before inserting.
• Insert contact lenses before applying makeup.
• Keep your eyes closed when spraying aerosols such as hairspray.
• Avoid contact with water including swimming, showering, hot tubs, and water sports.
• Dispose of lenses at the end of the wear period.
• Do not use contact lenses or solutions if they are out of date. 
• Avoid wearing contact lenses if you have an eye infection, or your eyes are sore.
• Stick to the wear schedule advised by your eyecare practitioner.
• Make sure you have an adequate supply of replacement lenses.
• Have an up-to-date pair of spectacles for when you are not wearing your contact lenses. 

If you’re interested in trialling contact lenses, or have any queries, contact your local Eye Place practice today.