Tips for First-Time Contact Lens Wearers: What to Expect September 5, 2024

If you’re about to wear contact lenses for the first time, it’s normal to feel a mix of excitement and nervousness. Contact lenses offer a lot of benefits, including greater freedom of movement, a more natural appearance, and no need to worry about glasses fogging up. However, adjusting to contact lenses takes some time and practice. In this article, we’ll provide useful tips to help first-time contact lens wearers feel confident and comfortable during the transition.

1. Get a Proper Fitting from Your Eye Doctor

The first and most important step in starting your contact lens journey is getting a proper fitting from your eye doctor. Not all contact lenses are the same, and your doctor will measure your eyes to ensure that the lenses fit properly and correct your vision accurately. They will also teach you how to put in and remove your lenses safely.

During the fitting, your doctor will explain the different types of contact lenses available (daily disposables, extended wear, toric lenses for astigmatism, etc.) and help you choose the best option for your eyes and lifestyle.

2. Practice Inserting and Removing Your Lenses

For first-time wearers, putting in and taking out contact lenses may feel a little tricky at first. Don’t worry—this is completely normal! Practice makes perfect. Here are some tips to make the process easier:

Start with clean hands: Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before touching your contact lenses to avoid infections.
Stay calm and patient: It might take a few tries to get the lens to sit properly on your eye, but with patience, it will become second nature.
Use a mirror: Stand in front of a well-lit mirror, and use one hand to gently pull down your lower eyelid while placing the lens on your eye with your other hand.
Blink naturally: After the lens is on, blink gently to help it settle into place.

3. Expect an Adjustment Period

It’s completely normal for your eyes to need some time to adjust to contact lenses. You may feel a slight sensation of discomfort or awareness in your eyes for the first few days. This is because your eyes are getting used to having something new on them. However, if you experience any sharp pain, redness, or excessive tearing, remove the lenses and contact your eye doctor immediately.

Most people find that their eyes adjust within a few days to a week. If you still feel discomfort after this period, your doctor may need to adjust your lenses.

4. Follow the Recommended Wearing Schedule

When you start wearing contact lenses, it’s important to follow the wearing schedule recommended by your eye doctor. Many first-time wearers begin by wearing their lenses for just a few hours a day, gradually increasing wear time as their eyes adjust. Overwearing your lenses, especially in the early days, can lead to irritation, dryness, or discomfort.

5. Keep Your Lenses Clean

Proper lens care is crucial for eye health and comfort. If you are wearing lenses that need to be reused, make sure you clean and disinfect them daily. Use the recommended cleaning solution provided by your eye doctor, and never use tap water or saliva to clean your lenses.

Follow the cleaning instructions: Make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions for cleaning and storing your lenses. If you’re using daily disposable lenses, remember to throw them away after each use.
Replace your case regularly: Contact lens cases can become breeding grounds for bacteria if not cleaned regularly. It’s a good idea to replace your case every three months.

6. Be Prepared for Dry Eyes

It’s common for contact lens wearers to experience dry eyes, especially if you spend long hours in front of a computer or in a dry environment. To combat dryness, keep moisturizing eye drops on hand (make sure they’re contact lens-friendly). Regular use of these drops can help keep your eyes hydrated and comfortable throughout the day.

7. Know When to Take Breaks

While contact lenses offer great convenience, it’s important to give your eyes a break now and then. Wearing lenses for long periods without rest can lead to dryness and irritation. Take your lenses out at the end of the day, or switch to glasses occasionally to allow your eyes to rest and breathe. If you use extended-wear lenses, follow your doctor’s advice on how many days you can wear them continuously.

8. Watch for Signs of Irritation or Infection

It’s important to pay attention to how your eyes feel while wearing contact lenses. If you notice any redness, swelling, or discomfort that doesn’t go away, it could be a sign of irritation or infection. Remove your lenses immediately and contact your eye doctor. Early detection and treatment can prevent more serious complications.

9. Enjoy the Benefits of Contact Lenses

Once you’ve adjusted to wearing contact lenses, you’ll likely find that they offer many benefits, including improved peripheral vision, greater freedom of movement, and no need to worry about glasses fogging up. With practice and proper care, you’ll be able to enjoy these advantages comfortably and confidently.

Conclusion

Wearing contact lenses for the first time can be an exciting yet challenging experience. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a confident contact lens wearer. Remember to practice inserting and removing your lenses, follow your doctor’s recommendations, and take good care of your lenses to ensure a comfortable and healthy experience. In no time, you’ll be enjoying the freedom and convenience that contact lenses offer!