Contact lenses are an excellent cosmetic solution for correcting refractive errors. If you're using contact lenses for the first time, always ensure they are purchased from a qualified eye care professional, preferably an eye doctor. Remember, contact lenses are classified as medical devices.

WEARING CONTACT LENSES

Handle lenses with care at all times. Gently shake the lens case before removing the lenses. Place a lens on the tip of your clean, dry index finger. Use the fingers and thumb of your other hand to pull up your upper eyelid and pull down your lower eyelid simultaneously. Carefully place the lens over your cornea or the white part of your eye. Once the lens is in position, move your eyes in different directions to help it settle comfortably.

• Always wash and dry your hands before handling your contact lenses to avoid eye infections.
• Clean your lenses with the appropriate solution after each use and never use water.
• Unless specifically designed for overnight wear, remove lenses before sleeping to prevent dryness and irritation.
• Keep lenses in a clean case with fresh solution to prevent contamination.
• Schedule regular eye exams to ensure your lenses fit well and your eyes stay healthy.

HOW TO FIND OUT IF THE LENSES OR INSIDE - OUT?

Many people struggle to determine if their contact lens is inside out. The simplest method is to place the lens on your index finger. If it forms a perfect cup, it's correctly oriented. If it appears as a flared or distorted cup, it's likely inside out.

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling your contact lenses. Ensure your nails are trimmed, as long nails can damage the lenses or even harm your cornea during lens removal.

REMOVING YOUR CONTACT LENSES

Wash your hands with soap and water before removing your lenses. To remove soft contact lenses, look upward or sideways while pulling down your lower eyelid. Gently maneuver the lens onto the white part of your eye with your finger. Then, carefully pinch the lens between your index finger and thumb to lift it off. Until you become proficient at removing your lenses, it's a good idea to keep your fingernails trimmed to avoid scratching or damaging your eye.

To remove rigid contact lenses, hold your palm out, bend over, and open your eye wide. Using one finger from your other hand, gently pull the skin at the outer corner of your eye toward your ear while keeping your eye open. Then blink, and the contact lens should pop out into your palm.