Caring for your Colored Contact Lenses: Do’s and Don’ts

Caring for Your Colored Contact Lenses: Do’s and Don’ts

Colored contact lenses can be a fun way to enhance your eye appearance or create a different look. However, like regular contact lenses, they require proper care to maintain eye health and ensure they remain comfortable to wear. Here are some do’s and don’ts for caring for your colored contact lenses:

Do’s:

1. Wash Your Hands: Always wash your hands with soap and water before handling your colored contact lenses. Dry them with a lint-free towel to prevent transferring debris to the lenses.
2. Follow Your Eye Doctor’s Recommendations: Use the type of color contact lenses and cleaning solutions prescribed by your eye doctor. Don’t switch brands or solutions without consulting them first.
3. Clean and Disinfect: Clean your colored lenses daily using the recommended contact lens solution. Gently rub the lenses with your fingertip to remove any protein, lipids, or debris buildup.
4. Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse your colored lenses with fresh solution before storing them. Avoid using tap water or saliva, as they can introduce harmful bacteria to the lenses.
5. Replace as Directed: Follow the recommended replacement schedule for your color contact lenses. Overwearing can lead to eye discomfort and potential complications.
6. Store Properly: Use a clean contact lens case and fill it with fresh solution each time you store your colored lenses. Replace your case every three months to prevent bacterial growth.
7. Remove Before Sleeping: Never sleep in your color contact lenses unless they are specifically designed for extended or continuous wear. Sleeping with regular lenses can increase the risk of eye infections.
8. Handle Lenses Carefully: Use your fingertips to handle your color lenses, not your nails or sharp objects. Be gentle to avoid tearing or damaging the lenses.
9. Keep Nails Short: Maintain short, clean nails to minimize the risk of scratching your eyes or lenses during insertion and removal.

Don’ts:

1. Don’t Use Saliva or Water: Avoid using saliva or tap water to clean or store your colored lenses, as they can introduce harmful microorganisms that may cause eye infections.
2. Don’t Over wear Lenses: Don’t exceed the recommended wearing time for your colored lenses. Over wearing can lead to dryness, discomfort, and increased risk of infections.
3. Don’t Share Lenses: Colored contact lenses are a personal medical device. Never share them with others, as it can lead to the spread of eye infections.
4. Don’t Swim with Lenses: Avoid wearing colored contact lenses while swimming, as water (including pool, hot tub, and ocean water) can introduce harmful bacteria and chemicals to your eyes.
5. Don’t Use Expired Solution: Check the expiration date on your color contact lens solution and do not use it if it has expired. Expired solution may not effectively disinfect your lenses.
6. Don’t Rub Your Eyes: Try to avoid rubbing your eyes while wearing color contact lenses. It can dislodge the lens or introduce irritants to your eyes.
7. Don’t Ignore Discomfort: If your eyes become red, irritated, or you experience any discomfort, remove your colored lenses and consult your eye care professional.

Proper care and hygiene are essential when using colored contact lenses. Following these do’s and don’ts can help you maintain good eye health and enjoy the benefits of wearing colored contacts. If you have any concerns or questions about your colored contact lens care, consult your eye doctor for guidance and recommendations.