Millions of people in need of vision correction are successfully using contact lenses. They’re effective, convenient, and safe when handled properly. However, failure to practice good contact lens hygiene can have some serious consequences to your eyes and vision.
There are several different types of contact solutions that are used for different purposes. It’s important to know what each one does so you can be sure your lenses are clean and safe.
First there is saline solution. Saline solution is made to clean dirt, chemicals, and residue from your contacts. It’s good to use for storage and to rinse your lenses before you put them in your eyes, but saline solution does not disinfect. It is often confused for a disinfecting solution, so if you are only using a saline solution you may require another solution for disinfecting purposes.
Then there is hydrogen peroxide solution. Hydrogen peroxide solution is designed to store your contacts in in order to remove buildup. Bacteria can build up inside of your lenses and cause infections like pink eye. An overnight soak in Hydrogen peroxide solution can get those bacteria out. After your lenses are soaked in this solution you should rinse them with a saline solution before you put them in your eyes.
Next there are Enzyme solutions, which are protein-removing solutions. They clean the buildup from your contacts that happens naturally as your tear ducts produce protein. Enzyme cleaners do not kill bacteria and germs. The solution can come in a pill or liquid form and usually need to be mixed with another solution. Be sure to carefully follow the directions if you are using protein-removing solutions.
There is also daily cleansing solution. It’s used as a rinse to clean your lens before you disinfect it. It does not disinfect and it is not recommended to store in.
Next, and most commonly used, is multi-purpose solution. It does double duty by working as a daily cleanser and a disinfecting solution. You can store your contacts in it, and use the same solution as a rinse before insertion. Typically most users only use a multi-purpose solution.
Contact lens wearers may need rewetting solution sometimes. They relieve your eyes from any dryness that may occur while wearing your lenses. It’s one of the only solutions that you use while your contact is already in your eye.
Always consult your optometrist for help in choosing solution. Remember- everything you put in your contacts you are putting in your eyes, so your optometrist should be your first resource for eye safety.
If you are a Simon Eye patient and need to re-order your contacts you can do it online.
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