Making the step from glasses to contact lenses comes with a lot of added bonuses. They can be more convenient, cost-effective, and possibly better suited to your lifestyle, but they’re also a bit intimidating if it’s your first time using them. After your comprehensive eye exam, your optometrist will help determine which contact lenses are best suited for your prescription and lifestyle, then you’ll be on your way to seeing at all the little details you weren’t able to notice before. If you’re nervous about getting your first set of contact lenses, read our tips below to help guide you through your first weeks with lenses.
You’ll adjust to your contact lenses
Your eyes are sensitive, and it takes about 10 days for them to adjust to having contact lenses in. You might notice the sensation of wearing them, but eventually you’ll be able to forget that you’re wearing them and just marvel at your better vision. If you experience irritation, like itchiness or red eyes, it’s possible that your lenses aren’t clean or you’ve put them in incorrectly. Once you’ve gotten the process of cleaning and inserting figured out, you’ll be able to avoid these problems.
You’ll get used to putting your contact lenses in
When you first start using your contact lenses, it’s best to make sure your fingernails are trimmed. This will help you feel better about having them so close to your eyes, while also reducing any risk of accidentally scratching your cornea. If something happens to your lens while inserting it, like it falls out of your eye, simply clean it with some lens solution and try again. It can take a few tries to get used to, but each time will get easier.
Lens hygiene is very important
Following proper content lens hygiene just might be one of the most important things you can do for your eyes if you wear contact lenses. Try not to let water touch your lenses, as water from the shower, pool, or ocean can cause infection to your eyes. Additionally, cleaning your lenses with tap water, or ‘topping up’ the solution in your lens case, can be enough to cause infection too. For more about contact lens hygiene, check out our recent article of all the do’s and don’ts to keep in mind.
Follow your optometrist’s instructions
Only wear your lenses for the amount of time that your optometrist says is safe, and make sure you replace your lenses according to schedule. Contact lenses are one of the few things you can over-wear, and unlike last week’s shirt, a smell test doesn’t apply.
Ask questions if you’re unsure
If you're not sure that you're wearing your contacts properly, you’re noticing signs of irritation or discomfort, or if you have any other questions, just ask. Your optometrist can help clear up any uncertainties you might have, or help you figure out the best solution.
It’s best to err on the side of caution while you get used to your new contact lenses, and if they’re not looking or feeling good, stop by your local Optical Express to speak to an optometrist and clear up any of your uncertainties.
Clinic Finder