Contact lenses are unquestionably handier than spectacles. However, if cleaning measures are not followed, they can lead to major issues. Despite this, up to 90% of contact lens wearers do not properly clean and care for their lenses.
It can be difficult and time-consuming to find the proper contact lens. It might be the same when it comes to finding the ideal contact solution. Let's speak about how to clean and sterilize your contacts and which contact solution is best for you. Some information can help to clarify things and provide your contacts with the solution you want.
How to Clean Contact Lenses
Whatever solution you select, there are several key measures to follow while cleaning your lenses. It's important to remember that when working with contact lenses, sanitation is crucial. Failure to follow cleaning protocols might have major and long-term implications.
Before putting in or removing your contacts, always wash your hands with warm water and soap. You risk infecting your contacts if you put them in without first cleaning them. You also increase your chances of contracting an infection. Prepare a clean, disinfected lens container and cleaner when you're ready to remove them.
Remove each of your lenses one by one. Squeeze a small amount of solution onto the first lens in the palm of your hand. Rub the lens for 20 seconds with your other hand's fingers. Fill the container with the necessary amount of solution and place the contact in it. Carry on with the process for the other contact.
Always avoid rinsing or storing your contact lenses in water. Small levels of bacteria, viruses, and other pollutants can be found in tap water. Replace your contact lens case every three months or if you replace contact lens solutions.
Multipurpose and hydrogen peroxide are the two most common types of solutions.
Multipurpose solutions
You can clean and disinfect your lenses with multipurpose contact solutions. They have both medical-grade detergents and a disinfectant in them. This type of solution is intended to be an all-in-one contact management system.
A single solution can be used to clean, disinfect, and store your contacts. Allow at least four hours for all multipurpose solutions to disinfect completely. Rub and rinse and rinse-only are the two main types of multifunctional solutions.
Hydrogen Peroxide Solutions
A solution of hydrogen peroxide suspended in sterile saline is used in this type. Hydrogen peroxide-based solutions completely disinfect your lenses. However, compared to multipurpose solutions, they can be a little more challenging to use.
Begin by following the procedures above to clean your lenses with hydrogen peroxide solution. It may be a good idea to first rinse your lenses with a multipurpose solution, depending on the type you pick. This cleans the surface of any impurities. It also permits the hydrogen peroxide to disinfect the lenses completely.
A word of caution regarding hydrogen peroxide-based remedies. They aren't meant to be used to clean your lenses. Hydrogen peroxide is corrosive to your eye's tissue. You must take the necessary measures. It is critical to wait the necessary amount of time. This guarantees that the hydrogen peroxide in your lenses is neutralized before you put them on.
For Longer Storage, the Best Contact Solution
Either solution is appropriate for washing and disinfecting your contact lenses overnight. A multipurpose solution is the ideal contact lens cleaning for long-term storage. Disinfecting your lenses with hydrogen peroxide solutions is quite effective.
However, once the peroxide has been neutralized, your lenses are just sitting in sterile saline. Bacteria may re-grow and pollutants may enter the case as a result of this.
Cleaning and disinfection abilities of multipurpose solutions do not deteriorate while they operate. Once you've placed your lenses in a multipurpose solution, you can store them for as long as you need. Check the expiration dates on your lenses before storing them for a lengthy period of time. Make sure your lenses and solution don't go bad while you're putting them away. If they do, throw them away and obtain new lenses and solution for your health and safety.
So, what's the best way to make contact?
The quick answer is that it is debatable. Almost any contact solution on the market today will properly clean and disinfect your lenses. Try a few different kinds and discover which one you like most. Some claim to be able to detect the residue of multifunctional solutions.
Others are scared of having hydrogen peroxide so close to their eyes.
The best contact method for you may not be the greatest method for someone else. Consult your eye doctor about your contacts and the best way to care for them. Let's book your appointment with Malaya Optical Optometrists for more details.