Taking care of your eyes means understanding the key elements of contact lens care, particularly the proper use of contact lens solutions. If you’re new to wearing lenses or want to learn more about lens care, understanding the basics of contact lens solutions is a good start. Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic discusses more about it here.
Here are several popular types of contact lens solutions available in the market:
Multi-Purpose Solutions. These are the most popular type of contact lens solution due to their ease of use. They can perform multiple tasks, including cleaning, rinsing, disinfecting and storing your lenses. These solutions are ideal for busy people as they eliminate the need for separate products for each process. However, some people with sensitive eyes may find certain brands of multi-purpose solutions irritating.
Hydrogen peroxide-based solutions. These are an alternative for those sensitive to the preservatives found multi-purpose solutions. These solutions are effective at disinfecting and cleaning lenses. They require additional neutralization to turn the peroxide into water, making it safe for the eyes. Inserting the lenses into your eyes without proper neutralization could lead to severe irritation or even injury.
Saline Solutions. These are primarily used for rinsing off lenses before insertion and after the disinfection process. They are simple, salt-water solutions that mimic the natural, salty environment of the eyes. However, they do not contain any cleaning or disinfecting agents. They’re typically used with other solutions for storing and wetting rigid, gas-permeable lenses.
The proper use of contact lens solutions goes a long way in providing discreet eyewear and keeping your eyes safe from harm.
Always wash and dry your hands before handling your contact lenses and solutions
When cleaning, place the lens in the palm of your hand, apply a few drops of your chosen solution, and gently rub the lens for about 20 seconds. Then, rinse thoroughly with more solution.
When storing your lenses overnight, submerge them in a fresh solution in a clean case.
Never top up old solutions with new ones. Always discard the old solution and start fresh each time.
Remember to follow the instructions provided by your optometrist or on the solution’s packaging.
When choosing the right contact lens solution, consider the type of contact lenses you are using. Some solutions are ideal for hard lenses, while others are better suited for soft lenses. Also, consider your lifestyle and convenience. If you’re often on the go, you might prefer a multi-purpose solution that can clean, disinfect and store your lenses. Factor in any sensitivities or allergies you may have. If your eyes are often irritated, a preservative-free solution may be ideal.
While cost can be a factor, it’s crucial not to compromise the health of your eyes for the sake of saving a few dollars. The cheapest option isn’t always the best. Trying out different solutions under the guidance of your optometrist can help you find the most effective one for you.
Understanding the fundamentals of contact lens solutions is essential for maintaining optimal eye health and ensuring the longevity of your lenses. For quality eye care, trust only Alderwood Optical & Canyon Park Vision Clinic. Schedule an appointment today by calling us at the following numbers: (425) 771-8472 (Lynnwood, WA) and (425) 485-0430 (Bothell, WA), or fill out this contact form.