Contact lenses are a safe, convenient, and popular way to correct vision—when used properly. Following your optometrist’s instructions helps protect against irritation, infections, and long-term eye health issues. Now is the perfect time to review your daily lens care routine and make sure it supports healthy, comfortable vision.
Whether you need to update your prescription, explore new lens options, or schedule your next exam, the team at Totowa Eyecare in Totowa, New Jersey is here to help you keep your eyes in top shape.
Tips for Contact Lens Care
From clearer vision to more freedom in sports and daily activities, contact lenses offer plenty of advantages—but only if they’re cared for correctly. To reduce your risk of discomfort or infection, follow these safety tips:
- Wash and dry your hands with soap and a lint-free towel before handling lenses. This prevents harmful bacteria and debris from transferring to your eyes.
- Clean and disinfect reusable lenses exactly as instructed by your optometrist or the manufacturer. Skipping steps or rushing through the process can leave harmful microbes behind.
- Never sleep in lenses unless they’re approved for overnight wear, as this greatly increases the risk of eye infections.
- Avoid wearing lenses that are damaged or torn, since they can scratch the eye’s surface and lead to complications.
- Keep lenses away from water, including swimming pools, hot tubs, and showers. Water can contain microorganisms that may cause serious eye infections.
- Replace your lens case at least every three months and allow it to air-dry between uses.
If you notice redness, pain, or blurry vision, remove your lenses and contact us right away for an evaluation.
Why Regular Checkups Matter for Lens Wearers
Even if your lenses feel comfortable, regular eye exams are essential for detecting early signs of irritation, dryness, or infection. Some contact lens-related conditions can develop without noticeable symptoms until they become more serious. During your exam, your optometrist will check the fit of your lenses, assess your eye health, and confirm your prescription is up to date.
These visits are also a great time to explore newer lens materials or designs that may offer better comfort, vision, or convenience.
Are All Contact Lenses Safe?
Prescription contact lenses are safe when fitted by a qualified optometrist and worn as directed. Daily disposable lenses are especially low-maintenance—just use a fresh pair each day and discard them after wear. This eliminates cleaning and storage, reducing the chance of infection.
Reusable lenses are equally safe when properly cared for, but research shows wearers who skip cleaning or sleep in their lenses are at higher risk for rare conditions like acanthamoeba keratitis (AK), a serious infection that can threaten vision. The good news? Consistent hygiene practices keep these risks very low.
The Risks of Decorative Lenses
Decorative or costume lenses may seem like harmless fun, but they can be dangerous if purchased without a prescription. In the U.S., the FDA prohibits selling contact lenses—corrective or cosmetic—without a valid prescription, and Health Canada requires a license to sell them. Risks include:
- Bacterial or fungal eye infections
- Corneal ulcers (open sores on the eye)
- Permanent vision loss in severe cases
Only wear lenses prescribed and fitted by your optometrist, and follow all safety instructions.
Keep Your Vision Healthy All Year Long
Safe contact lens use is important no matter the season. By committing to proper care, you can enjoy clear, comfortable vision every day. If it’s time for a prescription update, lens fitting, or routine checkup, Totowa Eyecare in Totowa, New Jersey is ready to help.
Call us at 973-942-4221 or request an https://www.4patientcare.ws/wsv3pro/web/webschedulerv3.aspx?SessionID=19734095&Gcount=0 today. Your eyes will thank you!