Quick answer
Use multipurpose lens solution to clean, rinse, and store your lenses every day, and use moisturizing eye drops before insertion or whenever your eyes feel dry. Never apply eye drops while lenses are in your eyes unless they are labeled safe for contacts.
Why the order matters
Multipurpose lens solution is designed to disinfect and condition the lens surface. Moisturizing eye drops, on the other hand, add a layer of hydration to your eye. Using them in the wrong order—such as putting drops in before cleaning—can reduce the effectiveness of the solution.
Some eye drops contain preservatives or chemicals that can be absorbed by the lens. If you use a drop that isn't compatible with contacts, the lens may become cloudy or irritated. Always check the label for 'contact lens safe'.
Know the difference between cleaning and moisturizing
Cleaning removes protein, dirt, and debris from the lens surface. Moisturizing adds comfort and prevents dryness. They are not interchangeable: you cannot clean a lens with eye drops, and you cannot moisturize your eye with lens solution.
If you're new to contact lens care, it's easy to confuse the two. Remember: solution is for the lens, drops are for the eye. This simple rule helps you avoid common mistakes.
Step-by-step lens care routine
- Wash and dry your hands: Always wash your hands with soap and water, then dry them with a lint-free towel before touching your lenses. This prevents transferring oils or bacteria to the lens or solution bottle. Checkpoint: use a fresh towel each time to avoid reintroducing lint or germs.
- Remove one lens and place it in your palm: Take out the lens and put it in the center of your palm. Avoid using fingernails; use the pad of your finger to handle the lens gently.
- Apply multipurpose solution and rub: Squeeze a few drops of multipurpose lens solution onto the lens. Gently rub it for about 20 seconds on each side. This removes protein and debris that can cause discomfort. Checkpoint: don't skip the rubbing step—soaking alone doesn't clean as effectively.
- Rinse the lens with solution: Hold the lens in your palm and rinse it thoroughly with fresh multipurpose solution. Never use water or saliva, as they can introduce harmful microorganisms.
- Place the lens in a clean case and fill with solution: Put the lens in the correct side of the case (left/right) and fill the well with fresh multipurpose solution until the lens is fully submerged. Close the lid tightly. Checkpoint: always use fresh solution—never top off old solution, as it loses disinfecting power.
- Before insertion, apply moisturizing eye drops: If your eyes feel dry, put one drop of moisturizing eye drop into each eye a few minutes before inserting the lenses. This pre-hydrates the eye surface for better comfort.
- Insert lenses and use drops as needed: Insert the lenses as usual. During the day, if your eyes feel dry or gritty, you can apply moisturizing eye drops that are safe for contact lenses. Do not use regular eye drops unless they are labeled for contacts. Checkpoint: if you need drops more than a few times a day, consider a different lens material or consult an eye care professional.
Products that support your lens care
-
Multipurpose Lens Solution (60ml): Max OptiFresh Bioplus multipurpose solution is formulated with hyaluronic acid, a natural lubricant in the body and eyes, and eases irritation caused by chemical formulas. This makes it suitable for people who find standard solutions irritating, helping you maintain a comfortable lens care routine.
Multipurpose Lens Solution (60ml)
-
Moisturizing Eye Drop (10ml): Moisturizing Eye Drop (10ml) is designed for dry eyes, which can be worsened by pollution and environmental factors. Keeping a bottle handy lets you refresh your eyes when they feel dry, especially in air-conditioned or windy conditions.
Moisturizing Eye Drop (10ml)
