Five Common Contact Lens Mistakes to Avoid
Your eyes are one of the most sensitive organs in your body, making proper contact lens care essential. However, many contact lens wearers develop bad habits or fail to follow instructions, which can lead to eye infections, discomfort, or even long-term damage. Here are five common mistakes to avoid when wearing contact lenses.
Not Changing Your Contact Lens Solution
Using old or contaminated lens solution can lead to inadequate disinfection, increasing the risk of eye infections. Contact lens solution is designed to clean and disinfect lenses, but it loses effectiveness over time.
To keep your lenses clean and your eyes healthy:
- Always use fresh solution when storing your lenses overnight.
- Never top off old solution—discard any leftover liquid before refilling your case.
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for replacing your solution regularly.
Neglecting this step can lead to protein buildup, bacterial growth, and eye irritation, increasing your risk of developing an infection.
Wearing Contacts for Too Long
Your eyes need oxygen, which they absorb from the air rather than through blood circulation. Contact lenses cover the corneas and limit oxygen intake, which can cause discomfort or even long-term damage if worn for too long.
To prevent eye strain and irritation:
- Avoid wearing contact lenses for more than 10 to 12 hours a day.
- Remove lenses before bed—sleeping in contacts can significantly increase the risk of infections and corneal ulcers.
- Follow the recommended replacement schedule for disposable lenses. Wearing daily, biweekly, or monthly lenses beyond their intended use can expose your eyes to bacteria, protein deposits, and debris buildup.
Ask your optometrist for a safe wearing schedule based on your eye health and lifestyle.
Wearing Contacts in a Pool, Hot Tub, or Shower
Wearing contact lenses in water—including pools, hot tubs, and even the shower—can expose your eyes to harmful bacteria, parasites, and contaminants. Tap water contains microorganisms and impurities, while chlorine and saltwater can irritate your eyes and alter the shape of your lenses.
To avoid water-related eye infections:
- Remove your contact lenses before swimming or using a hot tub.
- If you must wear contacts in the water, use daily disposable lenses and discard them immediately after swimming.
- Consider wearing prescription swimming goggles for clearer vision and better eye protection.
Not Removing Contacts When Your Eyes Are Irritated
Contact lenses should never cause pain. If your lenses feel uncomfortable, dry, or irritating, remove them immediately. Ignoring discomfort can lead to eye infections, corneal scratches, or serious complications.
Some common causes of irritation include:
- Damaged lenses that have small tears or defects.
- Dirt or debris trapped under the lens.
- Allergies—pollen, dander, and allergens can cling to contact lenses and worsen symptoms.
If you experience seasonal allergies, consider switching to ACUVUE Theravision lenses, which are designed specifically for contact lens wearers with allergies.
Not Washing Your Hands Before Handling Lenses
Even a small amount of dirt, oil, or bacteria on your hands can cause severe eye infections. Touching your contact lenses with unwashed hands increases the risk of contamination and irritation.
To ensure safe handling:
- Always wash your hands with soap and water before inserting or removing lenses.
- Dry your hands with a lint-free towel to prevent debris from transferring to your lenses.
- Avoid using moisturizing soaps or scented lotions, as these can leave a residue on your lenses.
Contact Lens and Eye Care in Edmonton
At Optometrists’ Clinic Inc., we offer a wide selection of name-brand contact lenses, colored lenses, and specialty lenses to meet your vision needs. Our optometrists and opticians provide expert advice on safe contact lens wear and eye health.
To learn more about contact lenses or to schedule an eye exam at one of our five Edmonton locations, contact us today.
