The Essential Guide to Contact Lens Care and Maintenance

Contact lenses are a convenient and comfortable alternative to glasses, offering clear vision and greater freedom during daily activities. However, to keep your eyes healthy and your vision sharp, it is essential to follow proper contact lens care and maintenance routines.

Daily Contact Lens Care Tips

Proper hygiene is the foundation of safe contact lens use. Always wash and dry your hands before handling your lenses. Avoid using oily or heavily scented soaps that can leave residues on your fingers and transfer to your lenses.

After removing your lenses, clean them using a recommended contact lens solution. Gently rub each lens with your fingers and rinse with solution before storing them in a clean case filled with fresh solution. Never reuse old solution or top it off. Always replace it completely to avoid contamination.

Storage and Replacement Best Practices

Your contact lens case should be cleaned with solution and air-dried daily. It is recommended to replace the case at least every three months. Depending on the type of lenses you wear, follow your doctor’s instructions regarding how often to replace them. Using lenses beyond their recommended replacement schedule can lead to serious eye health complications.

If you wear daily disposables, make sure to discard them after each use. For bi-weekly or monthly lenses, use a calendar or phone reminder to keep track of replacement dates.

Avoid These Common Contact Lens Mistakes

Wearing lenses overnight without approval from your optometrist, swimming or showering with lenses in, and exposing lenses to tap water are common mistakes that can increase your risk of infection. Even small missteps can lead to discomfort or long-term eye issues, so it's important to follow all safety guidelines closely.

The Importance of Regular Contact Lens Exams

Wearing contact lenses requires more than just a one-time fitting. Over time, your eyes can change, and lenses that once worked perfectly may no longer provide optimal vision or comfort. Regular contact lens exams allow your optometrist to monitor the health of your eyes, check for signs of irritation or infection, and update your prescription if needed.

These exams are also an opportunity to explore newer lens materials and technologies that may better suit your lifestyle. At Jeffrey H. Brown Optometry, we provide personalized lens fittings and care instructions to ensure your long-term eye health.

Schedule Your Next Contact Lens Exam Today

Taking care of your contact lenses is a critical part of maintaining clear vision and healthy eyes. By following a consistent cleaning routine, avoiding common mistakes, and scheduling regular exams, you can enjoy all the benefits contact lenses have to offer while protecting your vision.

Schedule your next contact lens exam with Jeffrey H. Brown Optometry to ensure your eyes are healthy and your lenses are the perfect fit. Visit our office in Costa Mesa, California, or call (714) 710-8062 today.