How to Make Your Coloured Contact Lenses Last Longer: Maintenance Tips
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How to Make Your Coloured Contact Lenses Last Longer: Maintenance Tips
Coloured contact lenses are a popular way to enhance or completely transform your eye colour, whether for everyday use, special occasions, or cosplay. However, without proper care, these lenses can quickly degrade, become uncomfortable, or even pose health risks. If you want to protect your investment and keep your eyes safe, learning how to properly maintain your coloured contact lenses is essential.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you make your coloured contact lenses last longer while maintaining hygiene and comfort.
1. Always Wash Your Hands Before Handling
The first and most crucial rule of contact lens care is hygiene. Always wash and dry your hands thoroughly before touching your lenses. Dirty or damp hands can transfer bacteria, oils, or particles to your lenses, which can not only damage them but also lead to serious eye infections.
Tip: Use a mild, fragrance-free soap and dry with a lint-free towel.
2. Clean and Disinfect After Every Use
Even if your coloured lenses are just for cosmetic use and worn for short periods, they need to be cleaned and disinfected after every wear. Use a high-quality, multi-purpose contact lens solution (never tap water or saliva) to rinse and store them.
Steps:
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Place the lens in your palm.
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Apply a few drops of solution.
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Rub gently with your fingertip to remove debris.
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Rinse again before placing in the storage case.
3. Use the Right Storage Case – and Replace It Regularly
Your contact lens case is just as important as your lenses. Use a clean, ventilated case specifically designed for contact lenses. Avoid generic containers or makeshift storage solutions.
Tip: Replace your lens case at least every 1–3 months, and clean it with solution (not water) regularly.
4. Follow the Lens Replacement Schedule
Coloured contact lenses come in various types: daily, bi-weekly, monthly, or even yearly. No matter how infrequently you wear them, once the lens is opened and exposed to air, the countdown begins.
Example: If your lenses are monthly disposables, they should be thrown away 30 days after opening – not 30 days of use.
5. Avoid Sleeping in Your Lenses
Unless specifically designed for overnight wear (which most coloured lenses are not), sleeping in your lenses can reduce oxygen supply to your eyes and increase the risk of infections. This also leads to quicker lens degradation.
6. Keep Your Lenses Away from Water
Showering, swimming, or using a hot tub while wearing lenses can introduce harmful microorganisms like Acanthamoeba, which can lead to painful and potentially blinding eye infections.
Rule of thumb: If there’s water involved, remove your lenses first.
7. Use Rewetting Drops If Needed
To prolong comfort and prevent dryness, especially with coloured lenses which can sometimes be thicker than clear lenses, use rewetting drops made for contact lens wearers. This helps prevent friction and protein buildup, which can wear down the lenses faster.
8. Don’t Share Your Lenses
Even if it's just for fun or a quick selfie, never share your coloured contact lenses with others. Doing so can transfer bacteria and lead to infections or irritation for both people involved.
9. Inspect Before Every Use
Before inserting your lenses, hold them up to the light to check for tears, cracks, or debris. Damaged lenses can scratch your eye and significantly reduce their lifespan.
10. Consult Your Eye Care Professional
Lastly, always consult your optometrist before using coloured contact lenses – even if they’re non-prescription. A professional fitting ensures the right size and material for your eyes, reducing the risk of complications and helping the lenses last longer.
Final Thoughts
Coloured contact lenses can be a safe, stylish way to express yourself, but only if they’re cared for properly. By following these simple yet effective maintenance tips, you’ll not only extend the lifespan of your lenses but also protect your eye health in the long run.