Do’s and don’ts for contact lens wearers

According to the Association of Contact Lens Manufacturers, in 2009 there were over 3.3million contact lenses wearers in the UK. A flexible and easy alternative to glasses, contact lenses have increased in popularity, thanks to some great advancement such as daily disposable lenses and lenses for astigmatism.

However, whilst contacts are easy to use and offer freedom from glasses, there are still some important do’s and don’ts that all wearers need to know. We’ve listed our top ten tips to safe contact lens wear below:

1. Regular checkups – You should usually have eye examinations every two years, which are free at Tesco Opticians, and regular contact lens aftercare appointments. This will ensure that your eyes are healthy and that you have the right prescription and lenses.

2. Don’t use out of date lenses – Contact lenses have expiry dates on for a reason. Do not use them if they are out of date, as the disinfecting solution will have lost some of its potency, meaning bacteria could have started forming on your lenses.

3. Keep some spare glasses to hand – Just in case you do run out, instead of risking out of date lenses, make sure you have a spare pair of glasses on hand in case of emergency

4. Always have an adequate supply – Whilst you might have some spare specs, it is always a good idea to have a supply of lenses so you don’t run out. Ordering online at Tescoopticians.com can help as you’ll receive a reminder when it’s time to re-order.

5. Don’t reuse daily contact lenses - Again for hygiene purposes only use the contact lenses for the specified amount of time on the packet.

6. Put your lenses in before applying make-up – One for the ladies! Make sure you put your contact lenses in first, to stop any bacteria from your make-up being transferred to your eyes during application (and always wash your brushes!)

7. Only use your contact lenses – your optician will have prescribed contact lenses specifically for you. Even if someone wears a similar prescription or the same brand, never use lenses that have not been prescribed for you.

8. Take care not to contaminate your lenses - When showering and washing your face be careful not to contaminate your lenses with tap water or soap. You can either close your eyes or remove your lenses.

9. Don’t swim in contact lenses – Again, to avoid getting water in your eyes you need to remove contacts before swimming. Alternatively wear daily disposable lenses and well fitting goggles to keep your contacts in and your eyes dry.

10. Don’t wear contact lenses if they don’t feel right – Always think about how your lenses feel. If they feel uncomfortable or ‘not right’ take them out. Never wear lenses that are causing discomfort, irritation or blurred vision as this may signify an eye infection or some other defect with the lens.

Following these top ten tips will make sure you keep enjoying the flexibility of contact lenses. Your eyes are incredibly important and you only get one pair – so look after them! If you are in any doubt about your current contact lenses or want to re-try them call us on 0845 6013479 and book a contact lens assessment today.

Also see NHS Choices and The British Association of Contact Lenses for more information.