13% of the Spanish population wears contact lenses. Aesthetics and comfort are the main reasons; however, improper use can cause different problems in the short and long term. The main mistakes are listed below:
- Extending their useful life
It is important to strictly follow the manufacturer’s instructions and pay attention to the expiry date and hours of use, because as soon as the lenses are used for the first time, they begin to lose very important properties that ensure their safe use.
- Not being careful with make-up
Eye make-up can get on your hands or rub against your contact lenses when you put them in. If contact lenses are not disposable, it is also important to remove make-up thoroughly.
- Not washing your hands properly
Proper hygiene is essential in order to avoid contamination of lenses and eyes with pathogenic microbes. Therefore, before putting in or removing contact lenses, you should wash your hands with a pH-neutral gel, if possible, and dry them thoroughly with a towel or cloth so that no fluff remains on your hands.
- Sleeping with them in
This is a common mistake that results in your eye not getting enough oxygen, which can inflame and crack the cornea.
- Using unsuitable products for cleaning
You should clean your contact lenses with the appropriate liquid. Under no circumstances should water or saliva be used, as they contain millions of bacterial micro-organisms capable of damaging your eyes.
- Not cleaning the storage case
To clean it, use contact lens disinfectant liquid, avoiding the use of water. In addition, it should be stored in areas without moisture or pollutants, like the bathroom, as this can contribute to fungal growth and the entry of bacteria.
- Showering or swimming with them in
This is a very common mistake that should be avoided, as the water, even if it looks clean, contains germs and can lead to eye infections such as conjunctivitis. In addition, soap can get stuck on your contact lenses, damaging them and irritating your eyes. In the case of swimming pools or the sea, this water contains a multitude of bacteria that deteriorate the lens.
- Reusing disinfectant liquid
It should be renewed daily to avoid infection.
- Wearing them with tired eyes
It is not advisable to put in contact lenses as soon as you wake up, as your eyes need to adapt to light, or on days when you have had little sleep.
- Rubbing your eyes
If dirt gets into the lens, it could cause an eye injury or ulcer. Furthermore, contact lenses should not cause discomfort, so if you experience itching, irritation, blurred vision or excessive movement, it is important that you remove them.
If you are going on a trip, we recommend that you always take your glasses with you in case of any issues with your contact lenses.
Always follow the advice of a professional and, if in doubt, consult your optician or ophthalmologist.
