Contact Lens Health

It is important to remember that contact lenses are medical devices with the purpose of providing benefits, but at the same time can pose certain health risks.

Improper contact lens wear could cause infection, swelling, or abrasions, possibly resulting in allergic or toxic conjunctivitis.

Possible symptoms could include discomfort or pain, redness, discharge or weakening vision. Should any of these symptoms develop during contact lens wear, remove the lenses and contact your eyecare professional immediately.

Wear and Care of Your Contact Lenses

Lens Wear Helpful Hints

  • Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling your contacts.
  • Follow your eye Doctor's lens care recommendations!
  • Wear sunglasses while you're in the sun.
  • Use re-wetting drops to lubricate your lenses for enhanced comfort in dry conditions.
  • Don't rub your eyes while you are wearing your contact lenses.
  • Itchy or red eyes can be symptoms of serious problems. Remove your lenses and call your eye Doctor immediately.
  • Always keep a pair of glasses with your current prescription handy.

Caring for Your Contacts
Proper care of your contacts helps to maximize your comfort while wearing them.

  • Always clean and store your contact lenses as directed.
  • Always use commercially prepared solutions and care products that are recommended by your eye Doctor.
  • Always store your contact lenses properly and replace your case regularly.
  • Always call your eye Doctor immediately if you experience severe itching, redness or chronic blurry vision.

  • Never insert torn or scratched contact lenses into your eyes. It can cause serious damage to your cornea.
  • Never put contact lenses in your mouth or moisten them with saliva. Only use approved products to care for your lenses and follow your eye Doctor's recommended regimen.
  • Never allow anyone else to wear your contact lenses or try them on. You can risk accidentally transmitting or acquiring a serious disease.

Makeup Tips
If you wear makeup and/or cosmetics along with contact lenses, you'll want to take note of these tips to help you wear your contacts safely and comfortably.

  • Always put your contacts on before applying makeup.
  • Choose water-based, hypoallergenic brands of makeup. These can be less irritating to your eyes.
  • Discard mascara and eyeliner within three or four months, as these types of cosmetics can build up bacteria more quickly than others.
  • Avoid waterproof mascara. This type of mascara cannot be easily removed with water and may stain soft contact lenses.
  • Avoid products that are labeled 'natural' or 'preservative-free,' as they are more prone to bacterial buildup.
  • Remove your contact lenses before you remove your makeup.
close window