While many new contact users find inserting and removing their contact lenses cumbersome, most get the knack in a few days. One of the most difficult obstacles to overcome is the fear of an object touching your eye. Irregardless of whether it is your finger or the contact lens, the reflex to blink is going to occur.
First, it is always important to make sure that you have just washed your hands. You should also have your saline solution, contact lens case, mirror, and cleaning solutions all within easy reach. At the beginning, it is also important to set aside plenty of time so that you can take each step calmly.
For the most part, one of the best things you can do for yourself is realize that your finger does not need to touch your eye at all. Instead, think of the contact lens as being like a rubber glove. Since you use rubber gloves to touch things you would not handle with bare hands, this should help alleviate the concern over your finger actually touching your eye.
When you are inserting your contact lens, place it on the tip of your index finger. Make sure that your finger is as dry as possible. Use your ring finger of the same hand to pull down and secure your lower eyelid. Some people may need to use a mirror at this point, but it is not necessary. If you are afraid of touching your eyeball, moving slowly and watching in the mirror at this stage can help you overcome that issue, as well as keep your cornea in an optimal location for placing the lens. Place the contact lens so that it is just eases onto your cornea. It should pull in and adhere to the surface almost immediately, and not extend over the pocket created by your lower eyelid.
Next, let go of your lower eyelid and let it finish the job of sealing the contact lens to your eye. After you let your upper eyelid fall, the contact lens should be safely in place. Once you blink a few times, you will be able to remove any tears without disrupting the lens.
Strangely enough, removing contact lenses is much easier. Simply look in the mirror to see where the lens is sitting. Use your middle finger to secure your lower eyelid. Next, use your index finger to slide the lens off your cornea, and into the far corner of your eye. From there, simply pull the lens out as you might a stray eyelash.
While some people remain uncomfortable with inserting and removing contact lenses, it is crucial to be able to do so. With a little bit of patience and practice, you will be able to change them at any time, and anywhere. As with anything else, you will need to recognize your own personal obstacles, and devise ways to overcome them.