DO keep your hands clean Your hands are covered with germs, so always wash them well before handling contact lenses. Make sure you use clear, lotion-free soap, and dry your hands thoroughly.
DON’T ‘top off’ contact lens solution Always use fresh contact lens solution when you’re storing your lenses overnight.
DO give the eyes a break in the evening for a few hours before bed You should wear your contact lenses less than 12 hours per day, ideally 8-10 hours, in order to maintain healthy corneas.
DON’T sleep in contact lenses Sleeping in contact lenses increases the risk of an eye infection by approximately 10 times.
DO take a day or two off during the week with no wear It is recommended to have a break from wearing contact lenses every once in a while for your eye health. Pick up your specs and wear them at least once a week.
DON’T shower or swim with contacts in Avoid showering in contact lenses, and remove them before having a bath or going swimming. Water has small organisms that can lead to an eye infection, so water should not come into contact with the contact lenses.
DO throw away expired lenses and solutions When they expire, the chemicals that kill bacteria don’t function properly, allowing impurities to build up on the lenses.
DON’T ignore your eyes if they are not happy If your eyes are uncomfortable contact your optometrist immediately for professional advice.
By Gary Sher