Chatelaine January 2004, Vol. 77 No. 1
Too wiped out at the end of the day to clean your contact lenses? You’re not the only one. Most people don’t clean them properly, says Dr. Gina Sorbara, head of the Contact Lens Clinic at the University of Waterloo (UW). Problem is, you could end up with irritated eyes, infections or even vision loss. Fortunately, proper lens care isn’t the complicated chemistry project it used to be, says Dr. Kathy Dumbleton of the Centre for Contact Lens Research at UW. Today’s cleaning solutions are gentler on the eyes, and one-step formulas eliminate extra cleaning steps. Follow these tips to keep your eyes healthy:
1. Use oil-free eye makeup and remover to prevent filmy lenses.
2. Look up from your work periodically and blink often.
3. Always wash your hands before handling your contact lenses.
4. Check the expiry date on your lens-cleaning solution.
5. Rinse both sides of your lenses in the palm of your hand with plenty of solution, rub them with your finger to get rid of protein and oils, and soak them in their case as long as directed.
6. Don’t use water or saliva on lenses.
7. Always use new solution in your lens case - don’t top up or reuse.
8. Treat coloured and special effects lenses the same as regular ones.
9. Rinse your lens case with solution. Empty the case and air-dry daily, then replace it every one to three months.
10. Never share contact lenses with anyone else.
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