7 Must-Know Tips for First-Time Contact Lens Wearers
- Christian Chew
- Oct 31
- 4 min read
Switching from glasses to contact lenses can be exciting, but it also comes with new responsibilities. As a first-time wearer, you’ll need to learn the basics of contact lens safety, hygiene, and care to keep your eyes healthy and comfortable. To help you adjust, we’ve put together seven essential tips every beginner should know, plus how Optica Optometry can make your transition smoother with expert contact lens fitting in San Mateo.
1. Inserting and Removing Your Lenses
The process of inserting contact lenses may feel intimidating at first, but practice makes perfect.
Always begin with clean, dry hands. Hold your upper eyelid steady, gently pull down the lower lid, and place the lens directly on the eye. Blink slowly to help it settle into place.
When removing contact lenses, look up slightly, pull down your lower eyelid, and use your index finger and thumb to slide the lens down and off. Many beginners struggle with blinking reflexes, but staying calm and patient is key. Within a few days, these steps will feel as natural as putting on glasses.
2. Practice Proper Hygiene and Storage
Most contact lens wearers fail to follow proper hygiene practices. For example, around 55% of people fail to rinse off the solution and simply top it off. However, cleanliness is the foundation of contact lens care. Always wash and dry your hands before handling your lenses. This simple step reduces the risk of introducing harmful bacteria.
If you use reusable lenses, store them in fresh disinfecting solution after each wear (never water or saliva). Replace your lens case every three months, since microbial buildup is one of the leading causes of eye irritation. Following these practices will dramatically improve both your comfort and eye health.
3. Learn What To Avoid
A big part of contact lens safety is knowing what not to do. Sleeping in contact lenses restricts oxygen flow to your cornea, raising your risk of infection by nearly six to eight times compared to removing them before bed. Likewise, never swim or shower in your lenses, as water can carry microorganisms that stick to the lens surface and cause severe eye conditions.
If your eyes ever feel unusually red, painful, or sensitive to light, remove your lenses immediately and consult your optometrist. These warning signs may indicate an infection or allergic reaction.
4. Stay Consistent With Follow-Up Appointments
Getting fitted for contacts is only the first step. Regular checkups ensure ongoing success. Your eyes can change shape or prescription over time, and follow-up appointments allow your optometrist to monitor corneal health and confirm your lenses remain a safe fit.
Skipping appointments is a common mistake among first-time wearers, but consistent monitoring can catch potential issues early. Even if your lenses feel fine, it’s important to stick to the schedule recommended by your eye doctor.
5. Keep a Backup Pair of Glasses
This is an often-overlooked tip: always have a backup pair of glasses. Even the most diligent wearers encounter situations where lenses become uncomfortable, whether due to allergies, irritation, or simple fatigue. Having glasses on hand ensures you’re never forced to push through discomfort, which could compromise contact lens safety.
As a bonus, rotating between glasses and contacts occasionally gives your eyes a much-needed break.
6. Consider a Trial Period With Optica Optometry
If you’re new to lenses, a professional fitting can make the experience stress-free. At Optica Optometry, our specialists provide personalized contact lens fitting in the Bay Area to ensure your lenses match your prescription and eye shape.
We often recommend a trial period, allowing you to test different lens types and materials under expert guidance. This way, you’ll find the option that offers maximum comfort and clarity without committing to a full supply right away. With tailored support, even nervous first-time wearers feel confident in their daily routine.
7. Follow Your Replacement Schedule
Contact lenses aren’t meant to be worn indefinitely. Each type — daily, bi-weekly, or monthly — has a strict replacement timeline. Ignoring this schedule allows protein deposits and bacteria to build up, reducing comfort and increasing infection risk. In fact, one of the leading causes of contact lens-related eye infections is overwearing lenses.
Set reminders on your phone or calendar to swap lenses on time. Sticking to your replacement schedule is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect your eyes.
Wrapping Up: Basics of Care for Contact Lenses
Wearing contact lenses opens up a world of convenience and freedom, but it requires a commitment to contact lens care and safety. From mastering insertion and removal to avoiding risky habits like sleeping in contacts, our tips will help you enjoy clear vision without compromising your health.
If you’re ready to start your journey with contacts, consider scheduling a professional fitting at Optica Optometry. Our expert team in San Mateo will guide you through every step, from your first lens trial to long-term contact lens care. With the right support, your transition to contacts will be smooth, comfortable, and safe.
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