How to Take Out Contacts Safely and Easily

Preparing to Remove Contact Lenses

Before taking out your contact lenses, it is important to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Dry your hands with a clean, lint-free towel to avoid any lint or debris from getting onto your lenses.

If you have long fingernails, be careful not to scratch or damage the lenses when removing them. You may want to consider trimming your nails or using a special tool designed for contact lens removal.

It is also recommended to use rewetting drops or saline solution to help loosen the contact lenses before attempting to remove them. This can make the process easier and more comfortable.

Finally, make sure you are in a well-lit area, as this will make it easier to see the lenses and ensure that they are properly removed. Avoid removing your lenses in dimly lit areas or in a hurry, as this can increase the risk of damaging the lenses or injuring your eyes.

Taking Out Soft Contact Lenses

Soft contact lenses are the most common type of contact lenses, and they are generally easy to remove. To take out your soft contact lenses:

1. Begin by looking up and pulling down your lower eyelid with the index finger of your non-dominant hand.
2. Use the index finger and thumb of your dominant hand to gently pinch the lens and remove it from your eye.
3. Repeat the process for the other lens.

Be careful not to squeeze the lens too tightly or pull too hard, as this can damage the lens or scratch your eye. If you have difficulty removing your contact lenses, try adding more rewetting drops or saline solution to your eyes to help loosen the lenses. If you continue to have difficulty, contact your eye doctor for further assistance.

Removing Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Contact Lenses

Removing rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses can be slightly more challenging than soft lenses, but with practice, it can become easier. To remove RGP contact lenses:

1. Look up and pull down your lower eyelid with the index finger of your non-dominant hand.
2. Use the index finger of your dominant hand to slide the lens down onto the white part of your eye.
3. Pinch the lens between the thumb and index finger of your dominant hand and remove it from your eye.
4. Repeat the process for the other lens.

Be gentle and take your time when removing RGP contact lenses, as they are more rigid than soft lenses and can scratch your eye if mishandled. If you have difficulty removing your RGP lenses, consult with your eye doctor for further guidance.

After Care for Your Contact Lenses

After you have successfully removed your contact lenses, it is important to properly care for them to ensure their longevity and prevent any potential infections. Here are some tips for aftercare:

1. Clean your contact lenses with a solution specifically designed for contact lenses, and store them in a clean and dry contact lens case.
2. Replace your contact lens case every three months to prevent bacteria buildup.
3. Avoid exposing your contact lenses to water, as this can lead to infections.
4. Follow your eye doctor’s instructions for the proper wearing and care of your contact lenses.
5. If you experience any discomfort or redness after removing your contact lenses, contact your eye doctor immediately.

By properly caring for your contact lenses, you can ensure clear vision and avoid any potential eye infections or other complications.

Conclusion

Taking out contact lenses may seem daunting at first, but with practice and proper technique, it can become an easy and routine task. Remember to always wash your hands before handling your contact lenses, use rewetting drops or saline solution to help loosen the lenses, and work in a well-lit area. Whether you wear soft or rigid gas permeable contact lenses, be gentle and take your time when removing them. And don’t forget to properly care for your lenses after removal to ensure their longevity and prevent any potential infections. If you have any concerns or difficulties with removing your contact lenses, don’t hesitate to contact your eye doctor for further guidance.