First-Time Contact Lens Wearer? What You Need to Know (2025)

Quick Contents

• Choosing Your Lenses
• Putting Lenses In
• Removing Lenses
• Lens Hygiene
• Adjustment Tips
• Understanding Prescriptions
• Best Lens Picks

Getting Started with Contact Lenses

Switching from glasses to contact lenses can significantly enhance your comfort and convenience. Contacts won’t fog up, provide clear peripheral vision, and let you wear your favorite sunglasses freely. If you’re considering contact lenses for the first time, it’s natural to have some questions. In this article, you’ll find practical advice on inserting, removing, caring for, and choosing your first pair of contact lenses.

Want a simple way to get your lenses delivered? Read our guide on How to Order Contact Lenses Online.

Choosing Your First Contact Lenses

Daily vs. Monthly Contact Lenses

Choosing between daily and monthly contact lenses depends on your lifestyle, budget, and personal preference. Daily lenses are disposable, convenient, and reduce the risk of infection, while monthly lenses require regular cleaning but can be cost-effective.

For more details, check out our article: Daily vs. Monthly Contact Lenses: Which Is Right for You?

Private Label vs. Brand Name Contacts

Store brands (private label) and big-name brands each have their advantages. While private label contacts often cost less, brand-name lenses might offer advanced features. Consider comfort, quality, and your eye care professional’s recommendation.

Explore the differences further: Private Label and Store Brand Contact Lenses

How to Put In Contact Lenses – Step-by-Step

Preparation Steps

• Thoroughly wash and dry your hands to avoid infection.
• Inspect lenses carefully: If the lens edges flare out, it’s inside-out. The correct lens shape looks like a smooth “U.”

Inserting Your Lenses

1. Place the lens on your fingertip.
2. Hold your upper eyelid open with one hand and gently pull down your lower eyelid with the other.
3. Look upward and place the lens on the white of your eye.
4. Blink slowly to position the lens properly.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your lens feels uncomfortable or blurry, remove it, rinse it with solution, and ensure it is right-side-out.

How to Safely Remove Contact Lenses

Removing Your Lenses with Ease

1. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.
2. Look upward and gently pull down your lower eyelid.
3. Slide the lens down to the white of your eye.
4. Use your thumb and index finger to gently pinch and remove the lens.

Dealing with a Stuck Lens

Having trouble removing your lens? Stay calm—your lens can’t get lost behind your eye. Read our step-by-step guide: How to Get a Stuck Contact Lens Out of Your Eye

Essential Contact Lens Hygiene

Daily Cleaning & Storage

• Always use fresh contact lens solution.
• Never reuse old solution.
• Replace your lens case every three months.

Important Hygiene Do’s and Don’ts

• Do wash your hands before handling lenses.
• Don’t use tap water to clean your contacts.
• Don’t sleep or swim in your lenses unless approved by your doctor.

Adjusting to Your New Lenses

Typical Adjustment Period

It’s normal to experience mild discomfort or blurry vision initially. These sensations usually resolve after a few days of consistent use. If discomfort persists beyond a week, contact your eye care professional.

Practical Lifestyle Tips

• Stay hydrated to reduce dry eyes.
• Choose eye-friendly makeup and apply lenses before cosmetics.
• Wear sunglasses with UV protection, even if your contacts have UV blocking.

Read more in our guide: Daily Contact Lenses: Benefits, Costs, and More

Understanding Your Prescription

Understanding your contact lens prescription helps you ensure you’re wearing the right lenses for your needs. Your prescription details the curvature, diameter, and corrective power required.

For a deeper understanding, read our guide: How to Read a Contact Lens Prescription

Picking the Best Contact Lenses for You

Choosing comfortable and effective lenses involves factors such as your vision requirements, lifestyle, and budget.

For our top recommendations, see:

FAQs for First-Time Wearers

• Can contacts get stuck behind my eyes? No, this is anatomically impossible.
• How long should I wear contacts at first? Start with 4-6 hours and gradually increase.
• Is discomfort normal initially? Yes, mild discomfort is normal at first.

Wrapping Up

Adjusting to contact lenses takes patience and proper care, but soon it becomes second nature. Follow the guidelines provided, keep good hygiene practices, and consult your eye care professional regularly.

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