How to Remove Contact Lenses

May 26, 2023 Ofelia Braun Buyer's Guides 0

Taking contact lenses off your eyes is as delicate as putting them in. What if the lens breaks? What if germs will penetrate your eyes? That’s why you should know all the necessary precautions to prevent any harm in your eyes or damage on your contacts, especially if you’re using the bi-weekly or monthly ones.

How do you remove contact lenses easily – step by step guide

People say that repetition leads to perfection. Taking your contact lenses off will be easy, quick, and safe once you learn the right process by practising for at least a couple of times.

Here are the steps you should follow from preparation to the removal process itself:

Wash your hands thoroughly. Wash your hands with antibacterial soap and water to get rid of the possible pathogens present on your hands. Rinse and dry your hands thoroughly with a clean towel.
Pour moisturizing drops on both eyes. Eye drops will help moisten your eyes as well as lubricate your contact lenses to help you remove them easier. If you don’t have eye drops no worries, you can also use fresh solution
Use a mirror, at least for starters. Mirrors and sufficient lighting will aid you in removing your contacts until you get accustomed to it.
Remove each contact while remembering which side they’re on (left or right eye) every single time you take your lenses off. This is necessary to avoid mixing up your contact lenses by accident. Contact lenses aren’t identical and interchangeable.
Gently pull down your lower eyelids as you pull up your upper eyelids. Use the index finger of your non-dominant hand to lift the top eyelid. Meanwhile, the middle finger of your dominant hand should keep the lower eyelid separated from your eyeball by pulling it downward.
Use the dominant hand’s thumb and forefinger to pinch the contact lens. While keeping your eye open, use the index finger and thumb of your writing hand to hold the lens.
Take off the contact lenses. Gently pinch the lens using the pads of your fingertips or the bottom part of your fingernails. Pull your hand away to completely remove the lens from your eyes. Avoid squeezing it too much for it may fold or crease.
Put the removed lenses on your non-dominant hand palm. This is the most convenient way to avoid dropping your contacts before you can even clean and store them.
Put your contacts to clean contact lens case. Using contact lens cases will help to store lenses until next time. Remember to always fill lens case with fresh solution.

Other methods for remove contact lenses

When it comes to removing contact lenses, there are a few alternative methods that you can try besides the traditional pinch-and-slide technique. These methods can be particularly helpful if you find it challenging to remove your contacts using the standard approach. Let’s explore some of these techniques:

Finger Slide Technique:

Instead of pinching the lens, this method involves using your index finger to slide the lens down toward the white part of your eye (sclera) until you can easily grasp it.

Gently press your eyelid against your eye to stabilize it while sliding the lens down. This technique requires some practice, but it can be a great alternative for those who struggle with pinching.

Suction Method:

If you’re comfortable using your fingers near your eye, you can try the suction method. Simply wet the tip of your index finger with sterile saline solution or rewetting drops and gently touch the lens.

Applying a slight pressure, the lens should stick to your finger, allowing you to lift it off your eye easily. Be sure to avoid applying excessive force or pulling on the lens too firmly.

Contact Lens Removal Tool:

Another option is to use a contact lens removal tool specifically designed to assist with lens removal. These tools often have a small scoop or tweezer-like design that allows you to grasp the lens without directly touching it. They can be particularly useful if you have difficulty gripping the lens with your fingers or have longer nails.

Remember, while these alternative methods can be effective, it’s important to consult with your eye care professional before attempting any new technique. They can provide personalized guidance and ensure you’re using the most appropriate method for your specific needs.

Why is it so hard to remove contact lenses?

Removing contact lenses can sometimes be a bit challenging, especially for beginners. Several factors contribute to the perceived difficulty of lens removal. Let’s explore some common reasons why it can be hard to remove contact lenses and how to overcome these challenges:

Suction and adhesion:

Contact lenses are designed to adhere to the surface of your eye, creating a snug fit. This adhesion can make it challenging to remove the lenses easily.

Dryness or dehydration:

Dry eyes or insufficient lubrication can cause the lenses to stick to your eye’s surface, making them harder to remove. Using lubricating eye drops or rewetting solutions before attempting to remove the lenses can help alleviate this issue.

Fear or anxiety:

Some individuals may experience anxiety or fear when touching their eyes. This can lead to tension and difficulty in removing contact lenses. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or focusing on a specific point, can help reduce anxiety during the lens removal process.

Inexperience:

If you are new to wearing contact lenses, it may take time to become accustomed to the removal process. With practice and guidance from your eye care professional, you will gain confidence and find a technique that works best for you.

Remember, patience and persistence are key when it comes to removing contact lenses. If you continue to experience significant difficulty, it’s essential to consult with your eye care professional. They can assess your specific situation, provide personalized advice, and address any underlying concerns.

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How to Take out Contacts With Long Nails

When it comes to removing soft contact lenses with long nails, extra caution is needed to prevent any damage or discomfort to your eyes. Here’s a short paragraph on how to take out contacts with long nails:

Taking out contact lenses with long nails requires a gentle touch and careful maneuvering. Begin by thoroughly washing your hands and ensuring that your long nails are clean and trimmed.

Avoid using excessive force or sharp movements that could scratch the lens or your eye. Instead of using your fingertips, you can use the side of your nail to carefully slide the lens down towards the lower part of your eye.

Once the lens is in a position where you can easily grasp it, use your thumb and index finger or an alternative method like a contact lens removal tool to gently lift the lens off your eye.

Always be mindful of the pressure you apply and proceed with patience to avoid any discomfort or injury.

How do you clean and store contact lenses?

Before you take note of the following steps, remember that Steps 1 and 2 should be done before you remove soft contact lenses.

Clean the contact lens case first. Wash your lens case using a saline solution. Turn the case upside down and let it air-dry. The best time to wash it is right after you place the contacts on your eyes to allow it to air-dry for hours.
Pour a new contact solution into the lens case. Do this right before you remove your contacts, specifically before you wash your hands. Fill the container with a contact solution (not a saline solution) halfway. Never reuse an old solution.
Cleaning the contact lens. This step should be done right after you remove both lenses. While the lenses are on your non-dominant hand’s palm, pour enough saline solution on them. Apply gentle pressure using the tip of your index finger to rub each lens starting from the middle to the outer sections. Do the same thing on the opposite side of each lens.
Put the contact lenses in the container. Place each lens in the correct slot (left side for your left eye, right side for your right eye). The amount of the solution should be enough to submerge the contacts completely.
Leave your lenses in the container filled with contact solution. Let the lenses rest in the contact solution for at least six hours or the indicated duration to ensure complete disinfection. This process also reduces the chances of eye strain from wearing contact lenses too long.

Can I sleep in my contacts?

What if you never remove your lenses? Wearing contacts while sleeping is risky. Despite the fact that some contact lenses are made for extended use, they still come with risks pertaining to eye infection or, worse, permanent loss of vision.

Using contact lenses during the day may result in airborne pollutants, allergens, or microbes penetrating your eyes as you sleep unless you religiously clean your eyes with drops. Closing your eyelids for an extended period of time leads to a perfect breeding ground for bacterial and viral growth.

Read more about sleeping with contact lenses on >>

Conclusion

Removing contact lenses is easy as 1-2-3, but it requires 100% focus and control. You need to pay attention to the transparent lenses, the pressure from your fingertips, and the way your fingers move. You should remain gentle and precise for the entire process.

Where to Buy Tinted Contact Lenses without a prescription

Not necessarily coloured, some lenses have a special tint with a sole purpose–easier handling, especially during removal. Luckily for you, Contact Lenses 4 Us has a wide range of tinted contacts like the 1-Day Acuvue Moist, and Dailies Aqua Comfort Plus. Order now even without a prescription and we’ll ship it no matter where you are in the world.

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