5 Common Contact Lens Mistakes You Should Avoid

Contact lenses are a convenient and popular alternative to glasses, offering a more comfortable and versatile option for vision correction. However, many people unknowingly make mistakes when using contact lenses, which can lead to discomfort, eye infections, and even permanent damage. Here are five common contact lens mistakes you should avoid to ensure your eye health and the longevity of your lenses.

1. Sleeping in Your Contact Lenses

While it might seem like a time-saver, sleeping in your contact lenses—especially if they are not designed for overnight wear—can be detrimental to your eye health. When you sleep with your lenses on, your eyes receive less oxygen, which can cause dryness, redness, and an increased risk of eye infections. In the worst case, it could lead to corneal ulcers.

Tip: Always remove your contact lenses before going to bed, unless your optometrist has specifically prescribed lenses that are safe for overnight use.

2. Wearing Contacts Past the Recommended Time

Every contact lens has an expiration date, whether it’s a daily, weekly, or monthly lens. Wearing your lenses for longer than the recommended period can expose your eyes to harmful bacteria and cause discomfort. Overused lenses may accumulate protein deposits and other debris that can irritate the eyes, leading to infections.

Tip: Stick to the recommended replacement schedule for your lenses, and don't try to extend their use, even if they still feel comfortable.

3. Not Cleaning Your Lenses Properly

Improper cleaning of your contact lenses is one of the most common causes of eye infections. You might think that rinsing them with water or saline solution is enough, but you need to properly clean and disinfect your lenses with a high-quality contact lens solution. Failure to do so can result in a buildup of harmful microorganisms on the lenses, putting your eyes at risk.

Tip: Always use fresh cleaning solution and avoid tap water to rinse your lenses. Follow the instructions provided by your optometrist or lens manufacturer for cleaning and disinfecting.

4. Touching Your Lenses With Dirty Hands

One of the simplest yet most overlooked mistakes is touching your lenses with unwashed or dirty hands. Touching the lenses with contaminated hands can transfer bacteria, oils, and dirt onto the lenses, which can lead to eye irritation, redness, or infection.

Tip: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling your lenses. Dry them with a lint-free towel to avoid transferring any particles onto the lenses.

5. Not Visiting Your Optometrist Regularly

Even if you don’t experience any discomfort with your contact lenses, it’s crucial to schedule regular check-ups with your optometrist. Your eye health can change over time, and your prescription may need to be adjusted. Routine eye exams can also catch early signs of infection or other complications that could lead to long-term issues if left untreated.

Tip: Schedule an annual eye exam to ensure your contact lenses are still the right fit and prescription for your eyes.

By avoiding these common contact lens mistakes, you can ensure that your eyes remain healthy and comfortable. Always follow proper hygiene practices, adhere to your lens replacement schedule, and visit your optometrist regularly to keep your eyes in the best possible condition. If you experience any discomfort, redness, or vision problems, remove your lenses immediately and seek professional advice. Your eye health is worth the extra care!