For many people, contact lenses provide clear vision without the hassle of wearing glasses. However, learning how to insert and remove your lenses properly is crucial to keeping your eyes healthy and avoiding discomfort or infection. At City Eyes Optometry Center, we not only prescribe lenses that match your needs but also teach you proper lens care techniques during your contact lens exam in Sherman Oaks, California.
 

How to Insert Contact Lenses

• Wash and dry your hands thoroughly: Always start with clean, dry hands. Use soap without added fragrance or lotion, rinse well, and dry with a lint-free towel.

• Check the lens for damage or debris: Before inserting, inspect your lens on your fingertip to ensure it’s not torn or dirty. Hold it up to the light and make sure it’s clean and bowl-shaped - not turned inside out.

• Place the lens on your finger: Rest the lens on the tip of your index finger with the edges facing up. Some people find it easier to use their dominant hand for this step.

• Hold your eyelids steady: With your non-dominant hand, gently hold your upper eyelid open to prevent blinking. Use the middle finger of your dominant hand to pull down your lower eyelid.

• Insert the lens carefully: Look straight ahead or slightly upward, and place the lens gently onto the center of your eye. Once it’s in, slowly release your eyelids and blink a few times to help the lens settle in place.

• Check for comfort and clarity: If the lens feels uncomfortable or your vision is blurry, remove it, rinse it with contact lens solution, and try again.
 

How to Remove Contact Lenses

• Wash and dry your hands again: Clean hands are just as important when removing lenses as when inserting them.

• Look upward and pull down your lower eyelid: Using the middle finger of your dominant hand, gently pull down your lower eyelid.

• Pinch the lens gently: With your thumb and index finger, lightly pinch the lens’s edges to lift it off your eye. Avoid squeezing too hard.

• Clean and store the lens properly: If you’re using reusable lenses, clean them with your solution before storing them in a clean lens case. If you wear daily disposables, discard them immediately after removal.
 

Additional Tips for Healthy Lens Wear

Never use tap water to rinse your contact lenses, as it can introduce harmful microorganisms that may lead to infection. Always replace your lens case every one to three months to maintain cleanliness and prevent bacteria buildup. Avoid sleeping in your lenses unless your optometrist has prescribed them for extended wear, as overnight use can restrict oxygen flow and increase the risk of irritation or infection.

It’s also essential to follow the replacement schedule recommended by your optometrist to keep your eyes healthy and your vision clear. Lastly, be sure to schedule regular contact lens exams in Sherman Oaks, CA to ensure your lenses continue to fit properly, your prescription stays accurate, and your eyes remain comfortable and well-protected.
 

Schedule Your Contact Lens Exam in Sherman Oaks Today

With the right technique and consistent hygiene habits, inserting and removing contact lenses can become a seamless part of your daily routine. If you ever experience redness, dryness, or irritation, contact your optometrist immediately to prevent complications.

Schedule your contact lens exam at City Eyes Optometry Center and enjoy clear, comfortable vision with expert guidance and personalized care. Visit our office in Sherman Oaks, California, or call (818) 960-1300 to book an appointment.