Wearing contacts for the first time? Chances are you might be feeling a little apprehensive, as is the case when starting out with anything that’s unfamiliar. Just remember to be patient with yourself. It will take time to get used to inserting them, removing them, and caring for them properly. But after a few weeks, you’ll have the luxury of crystal clear vision without the need for glasses. To help you adjust more easily, here is a quick guide with everything you need to know about wearing contacts for the first time.
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Know Your Type: Daily vs Weekly vs Monthly Lenses
There are a few types of contact lenses that your optometrist can recommend – daily, weekly, monthly, and extended wear lenses in some cases. The type that your doctor prescribes will depend on the condition of your eyes and what they’re aiming to correct. But each can differ for maintenance and hygiene habits, which is why you should be clear about what you’re given and how to care for them properly. Daily lenses tend to be most popular since they’re easier to use and are better for maintaining good hygiene. Weekly and monthly lenses can be worn for longer periods of time, which offer more convenience since you don’t have to keep taking them in and out so frequently.
Make Sure Your Hands Are Clean Before Touching Contacts
If you’re nervous about the whole process of putting them in and taking them out without harming your eyes, don’t be. It’s perfectly fine to touch your eyes, and the likelihood of scratching or causing damage is very minimal. The most important part of protecting them during this process is to make sure that your hands are clean. This will prevent bacteria and germs from latching onto your contacts and entering your eyes.
Don’t Skimp On Cleaning the Lenses
Keeping your lenses clean is equally as crucial as your hands. Your doctor will outline specific instructions on how to care for your contacts and what type of solution to use, which should be followed diligently. Different types of lenses will require different cleaning regimes, so make sure that you fully understand how to take care of yours.
Eyes Drops Should Be Compatible
If you spend a lot of time in front of a screen, or if you suffer from dry eyes in general, eye drops could be necessary to keep them moist and reduce irritation, even without wearing contacts. However, for those just starting out with contacts, it’s important to note that the eye drops you use should be compatible with your contact lenses. How can you determine this? Talk to your eye doctor to learn which product is right for you.
You should always give yourself time and patience to adjust when starting out with a new routine. Getting used to contacts can take a good few weeks for most people, but eventually, it will become effortless and you’ll be able to see the world clearly without needing your glasses. To learn more about contacts and whether they’re right for you, come by for a visit at Laurier Optical today.