Daily care and use of contact lenses
Wearing contact lenses properly depends on a few habits: clean hands, clear wearing schedules, and the specific care for each model.
And a simple rule: if something changes or stops feeling comfortable, it's worth checking it out.
First things first
Each contact lens has its own instructions for use, cleaning, and replacement. What works for daily lenses won't work for monthly ones.
This guide covers the essentials. For any questions about your contact lenses, your prescription, or how they feel, we can discuss it in-store.
Basic Hygiene
Before touching your contact lenses:
- · Wash your hands with soap and water.
- · Dry them thoroughly with a lint-free towel.
- · Avoid handling them with cream or makeup residue on your fingers.
If you use reusable contact lenses:
- · Use the solution indicated for that model.
- · Change all the liquid in the case every time you store them.
- · Do not mix new liquid with the old liquid already inside.
- · Clean and replace the case according to the recommendation received.
Water is not suitable for cleaning or storing contact lenses. It is also not advisable to reuse daily disposables or extend the replacement period of monthly lenses. Good care reduces the risk of irritation and infection.
Daily wear
There is no one-size-fits-all number of hours that works for everyone.
It depends on the type of contact lens, the environment, and how your eyes respond. Screens, air conditioning, wind, or a long day can all affect comfort.
Respect the recommended wearing time for your contact lenses. If they start to bother you earlier than usual, remove them and wear your glasses. There’s no need to suffer until the end of the day.
If this happens frequently, it's a good idea to check the fit, care, and type of lens.
What to do if you notice discomfort
A temporary sensation can be caused by dryness, an eyelash, or a misplaced contact lens.
In that case:
- · Remove the contact lens.
- · Check that it is clean and in good condition.
- · Do not put it back on if the discomfort continues.
Pain, severe redness, light sensitivity, or blurred vision that doesn't improve require a check-up. Don't normalize discomfort just because you've been wearing contact lenses for a long time.
When it's best not to wear them
There are times when it's better to choose glasses:
- · When sleeping, unless specifically indicated by a professional.
- · In the pool, sea, or shower.
- · If you have a red, irritated, or discharging eye.
- · If you experience pain or your vision has changed.
- · When you cannot follow the necessary hygiene routine.
Contact with water and incorrect use or storage increase the risk of eye infection.
When to book an in-store appointment
You don't have to wait for a scheduled check-up if something has changed.
Return to the store if:
- · Discomfort recurs.
- · You see worse with your contact lenses.
- · You can wear them for shorter periods each time.
- · You want to change the type or routine.
- · You are unsure how to care for them.
At Miller & Marc, we review what is happening and if the contact lenses you are using are still right for you.
Let's check together.
Contact lens care FAQs
Why are my eyes red when I wear contact lenses?
There may be different causes: dryness, a poorly fitted contact lens, use longer than recommended, or irritation.
Remove the contact lens and do not put it back in while your eye is still red. If there is pain, discharge, light sensitivity, or blurred vision, seek an examination.
How many hours a day can I wear contact lenses?
It depends on the type of contact lens and how your eyes respond. Follow the wear time indicated by your optometrist and the manufacturer.
If they start to feel uncomfortable sooner than usual, take them out. Wearing them longer will not improve adaptation.
Can I shower with contact lenses?
It is not recommended. Avoid wearing them in the pool, sea, river, or shower.
Water can come into contact with the lens and increase the risk of infection.
Can I sleep with contact lenses?
Most of them must be removed before sleep. Some models allow other uses, but only with professional indication.
Do not sleep with them for comfort or because you are running late.
What do I do if a contact lens moves out of place?
It can move under the eyelid, but it cannot go behind the eye.
Wash your hands, avoid rubbing, and try blinking gently. If you can't find it or the discomfort continues, stop manipulating your eye and seek professional help.
How often do I change the liquid in the case?
Each time you store your contact lenses.
Empty the old solution and use fresh solution. Do not top it off or use water as a substitute.
