Contact lenses are practical and effective means of correcting visual defects. However, this pair of lenses must be used properly to prevent eye damage. Although this eyewear could give users several advantages over eyeglasses, especially during bad weather, not everyone can use contact lenses.

Generally, practicing good hygiene is key to ensuring the safe usage of contact lenses. According to eye experts, some common mistakes should be avoided when using contact lenses to prevent eye infections and other troubles.

Overuse of Contact Lenses

One typical mistake is putting off replacing contacts until it's too late. Other contact lenses have different recommended wear times, from once every day to once every month. The risk of developing an eye infection is raised when lenses get contaminated with germs and bacteria through repeated use, according to a CNET article. Because of this, sticking to the suggested replacement schedule is essential.

Sleeping, Napping Wearing Contact Lenses

One crucial habit is taking out your contacts before bed. Wearing contact lenses while sleeping is a sure way to get an eye infection. Experts recommend taking them off before hitting the sack so your eyes can relax and breathe.

Leaving lenses in overnight may cause a disease known as corneal neovascularization, in which abnormally many new blood vessels form in the cornea, according to Eye RX.

Touching Contact Lenses with Unclean Hands

Your contact lenses' cleanliness will mirror the state of your hands. Touching your eyes with dirty hands may spread germs to those areas and cause illnesses.

Always wash your hands well with warm water and antibacterial soap before handling your contact lenses, whether putting them in or taking them out. Doing so reduces the possibility of contaminating your eyes with microorganisms.

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Using Tap Water in Cleaning

Cleaning lenses or casings with tap water or saliva is not recommended. Due to potentially infectious microorganisms, the CDC recommends avoiding contact with water. Instead, clean and rinse your case using a contact lens disinfection solution. Furthermore, it's recommended that you get a new contact lens case every three months for reasons of cleanliness.

Swimming Wearing Contacts

You shouldn't go swimming if you're wearing contacts. Lenses may get infected by germs and bacteria that live in the water of pools, lakes, and hot tubs. Wear prescription goggles or talk to your eye doctor about other options for eye protection.

Exercise Caution While Putting Makeup

Makeup should be used with care while using contact lenses to avoid contamination, according to Ophthalmologist Neel Lamba of eMediHealth. To prevent transmission of residues to the lenses and eyes, insert your lenses before applying any cosmetics or lotions. Use extreme caution while putting makeup near the eyes to prevent any chemicals from getting into your eyes. 

According to the American Optometric Association, soft lenses should be put in before applying makeup, whereas rigid gas-permeable lenses should be put in later.

Maintaining good eye health includes careful handling of contact lenses. Following these tips when using contact lenses will ensure safety and comfort.

Always remember to consult your ophthalmologist for proper eye care.

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