Quick Answer
To use eye lubricating drops with contact lenses, wash your hands, shake the bottle, tilt your head back, pull down your lower lid, and squeeze one drop into the pocket without touching the bottle tip to your eye or lens.
Why Use Lubricating Drops with Contacts
Contact lenses can reduce the amount of oxygen reaching your cornea and increase tear evaporation, which often leads to dryness and discomfort. Lubricating drops help restore moisture and create a smooth film over the lens surface, making wearing contacts more comfortable throughout the day.
Not all eye drops are safe for contact lens wearers. Some contain preservatives or additives that can build up on the lens or cause irritation. Always choose drops specifically labeled for contact lens use, and check the ingredients for hyaluronic acid, which is known for its superior moisture retention.
When to Apply the Drops
The best time to apply lubricating drops is before you feel severe discomfort. If you wait until your eyes are very dry, the drops may not spread evenly, and you might end up rubbing your eyes, which can dislodge the lens.
Apply drops in the morning when you first put in your lenses, after long screen sessions, and before removing your lenses at night. If you use rewetting drops during the day, make sure they are compatible with your lens type, especially if you wear extended wear lenses.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Eye Lubricating Drops
- Wash and Dry Your Hands: Use soap and water to wash your hands thoroughly, then dry them with a lint-free towel. This prevents transferring dirt or bacteria to your eye or contact lens. If your hands are not completely dry, the drops may become contaminated.
- Shake the Bottle Gently: Shake the bottle well before each use to ensure the solution is evenly mixed. This is especially important if the drops contain hyaluronic acid or other active ingredients. Skipping this step can result in inconsistent drop concentration.
- Tilt Your Head Back: Tilt your head back slightly and look upward. This position helps create a natural pocket between your lower eyelid and the eye, making it easier to apply the drop without blinking. Looking straight ahead can cause the drop to fall onto your eyelashes instead of your eye.
- Pull Down Your Lower Eyelid: Use your index finger to gently pull down your lower eyelid, creating a small pocket. This exposes the conjunctival sac where the drop should land. Pulling too hard can cause the lens to shift; keep the pressure gentle.
- Squeeze One Drop into the Pocket: Hold the bottle tip close to your eye but do not touch it. Squeeze one drop into the lower lid pocket. Avoid blinking immediately to allow the drop to spread. If the bottle tip touches your eye or lens, it can introduce bacteria or scratch the lens.
- Close Your Eye and Blink: Close your eye gently for a few seconds, then blink a few times to distribute the drop evenly across the lens surface. Do not rub your eyes. Rubbing can dislodge the lens or cause micro-scratches.
- Check the Lens Position: After applying the drop, ensure your lens is still centered on your eye. If it feels uncomfortable, look in a mirror and adjust if needed. If the lens feels stuck or moves excessively, remove it, rinse it with contact lens solution, and reinsert it.
Product Spotlight
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EyeCandys Dream Eye Lubricating Drops with Hyaluronic Acid for Contact Lenses: EyeCandys Dream Eye Lubricating Drops with Hyaluronic Acid are formulated for contact lens wearers and come in a 13mL bottle. Hyaluronic acid helps retain moisture on the eye's surface, making these drops a suitable choice for relieving dryness while wearing colored or extended-wear lenses.
EyeCandys Dream Eye Lubricating Drops with Hyaluronic Acid for Contact Lenses
