How to Put in Contact Lenses

If it’s your first time wearing contact lenses, or you’re considering getting them, it’s important to know the proper directions to follow as you practice applying them to your eyes. Repeating these steps each day will eventually make the application of your lenses a daily habit. Practice, time and patience will help you become more comfortable throughout the process.

1. Wash Your Hands Thoroughly
   Wash and rinse your hands thoroughly with water and oil-free soap. Ensure that your hands are completely dry before handling your contact lenses to avoid spreading any germs to your eyes. Never use tap water to rinse or clean your lenses or case.


2. Start with the Same Eye Every Time
   To avoid mixing up your lenses, start with the same eye each time you put them in or take them out. If you’re right-handed, start with the right lens. If you’re left-handed, start with the left. This will become a habit as you practice this method daily.


3. Inspect & Clean the Contact Lens
   Place the lens on the tip of your index finger of your dominant hand, then hold it up at eye level. If the edges flare out, it’s inside out. If it’s curved up like a bowl, then you’ve got the correct side. Check for tears, scratches or dust. If necessary, use solution to clean the lens.


4. Insert & Apply the Contact Lens
   With your opposite, non-dominant hand, carefully hold your upper eyelid with your index finger. Then pull down your lower eyelid with your middle finger. Place the lens on your eye and blink naturally a few times to allow the lens to settle into place. Repeat steps for other eye.

Specialists in Contact Lens Fitting

Our optometrists help decide the best contact lenses for you and explain proper safety and care instructions to achieve comfortable vision.