Keep Your Eyes Happy: Steer Clear of these Contact Lens Mistakes
Whether for visual correction or cosmetic use, contact lenses need as much caution and care as the benefits they provide. Beyond learning how to handle them correctly, it’s just as important to know common contact lens mistakes and avoid them for your safety.
Showering and sleeping in contact
Sleeping with contacts allows bacteria to build up because your cornea dries out during sleep. A similar risk happens if you shower with them—tap water isn’t sterile and can contain microbes that harm your eyes.
Handling your contacts with dirty hands
Who knows where those hands have been? If you’re going to put in or take out your contacts, make sure you’ve sterilized your hands first to prevent bacteria from being transferred to the lenses.Â
Topping up or refusing to replace your solution
Never skip replacing your contact lens solution just because some is left—or worse, top it up. Always use a fresh solution when removing your lenses to prevent bacterial buildup.
Wearing your contacts outside of their modality
Don’t wear your contact lenses outside the advised time frame. Lenses are designed to last a specific period, and as bacteria accumulate, their materials become unsterile and unsafe to reuse.
Lending your contact lenses
Borrowing contacts from one another isn’t a test of friendship; it’s a trial of hygiene. Sharing lenses can promote infection and serious eye complications. Trust is great, but your health isn’t something you should risk in the name of friendship.
