Coloured contact lenses have revolutionised the way people enhance their appearance, express their style, and even temporarily change their eye colour. Whether you’re going for a subtle enhancement or a bold transformation, taking proper care of your coloured contact lenses is crucial to ensure both your eye health and the longevity of your lenses. Let’s talk about some essential tips on how to care for your coloured contact lenses and maintain the health of your eyes.
Purchase Lenses from Reputable Sources
Always purchase your coloured contact lenses from trusted sources and reputed high-quality brands. Counterfeit or low-quality lenses can pose serious risks to your eye health, leading to discomfort, infections, or even permanent damage.
Cleaning and Disinfecting Routine
Maintaining a rigorous cleaning and disinfecting routine is essential to prevent the accumulation of dirt, debris, and potential bacteria on your lenses. Use only the recommended contact lens washer and store the lenses properly in the given contact lens case. Remember always remembering to wash your hands thoroughly before handling your lenses to avoid transferring oils, creams, or dirt onto them.
Follow the Recommended Replacement Schedule
Coloured contact lenses come with specific replacement schedules, such as daily, bi-weekly, or monthly. Following these schedules is crucial to prevent the buildup of deposits on your lenses, which can lead to discomfort and blurred vision. Don’t exceed the recommended wear time for each pair unless and until you are taking proper care of them by cleaning them and storing them in the contact lens case.
Proper Lens Insertion and Removal
Inserting and removing contact lenses requires patience and practice. Make sure that your hands are clean before touching your coloured contact lenses. Use your dominant hand to hold your eyelid open and gently place the lens on your eye. For removal, look upwards, slide the lens down using your index finger, and gently pinch it off.
Storage and Hydration
When you’re not wearing your coloured contact lenses, store them in the clean contact lens case and sterile lens case filled with a contact lens washer. Avoid using tap water to clean your lenses, as it can introduce harmful microorganisms. Replace your lens case regularly to prevent contamination.
Don’t Sleep and Swim with Lenses On
Sleeping in your coloured contact lenses, unless they are specifically designed for extended wear, can restrict oxygen flow to your corneas and increase the risk of infections. Similarly, swimming while wearing lenses can expose your eyes to waterborne infections. Always remove your lenses before these activities.
Never Share Your Lenses
Coloured contact lenses are personal items that should never be shared with others. Sharing lenses can lead to the transfer of bacteria, viruses, and other contaminants, increasing the risk of eye infections and discomfort.
Handle Makeup Carefully
If you wear makeup, put on your coloured contact lenses before applying any products to your face. Use oil-free and fragrance-free makeup to minimise the risk of products getting into your eyes or adhering to your lenses. When removing makeup, ensure no traces of makeup or cleanser come into contact with your lenses and ensure proper cleaning of lenses with a contact lens washer.
Coloured contact lenses can be a fantastic way to experiment with your look and express your creativity. However, prioritising eye health should always be the foremost concern. By following these tips and embracing a responsible approach to wearing and caring for your coloured contact lenses, you can enjoy the benefits of a vibrant outlook while safeguarding the well-being of your eyes.
