Introduction
Among celebrities and common people alike, there has been a shift in the trend towards the usage of contact lenses instead of prescription glasses. A market forecast by Statista has predicted the contact lenses market in India to reach at least 250 million US dollars by 2029. The surge in demand for contact lenses can be attributed to a number of reasons.
The extra price for contact lenses comes with the benefit of the effortless, natural look that they can give to your face without changing much of anything. If you want to add a touch of uniqueness, you can certainly go with different shades of lens colours to match your outfit. An eyeglass can alter the way you look and may even add a bit of a nerdy look to the overall fit.
People choose contact lenses over eyeglasses because the frames of these glasses can also significantly affect lateral vision. With contact lenses, you can easily move your eyeballs around, and there is no added pressure of eyeglasses on the nose bridge. Ultimately, your decision is a matter of personal preference.
If you are opting to buy a contact lens for regular use, having knowledge about the maintenance ordeal for keeping them clean can definitely come in handy. In order to understand in depth how to clean contact lenses, first, we need to look into how these lenses are made and what damages them the most.
How Are Contact Lenses Made?
Most of the contact lenses are made using water-loving polymers known as hydrogels. These three-dimensional networks of polymers can absorb and retain water, often at a rate of about 70% to 80%. You may ask, Why is water retention important for contact lenses? The answer lies in the structure of the cornea.
The cornea has no direct blood supply and gets its oxygen and moisture from the tear film. If contact lenses do not have a water retention property, they can limit the supply of oxygen to the cornea. Moreover, hydrogels without water retention can dry up quickly and cause itching, scratches, and other irritation in the eye. A good water retention property also helps to maintain the structural integrity of the lenses and, in the long term, helps them serve their purpose.
Another question that may naturally arise is which hydrogel material has the highest water retention property in contact lenses? Today, most contact lens manufacturers opt for silicone-based hydrogels. Compared to other polymers, silicone hydrogels have 7 times more permeability for oxygen. This makes them safer to wear for long hours with lower risks for eye health and deposit accumulation. Make sure that whenever you are buying a contact lens, it is silicon-based hydrogel and not any other cheap polymer.
Step-By-Step Guide For Cleaning Contact Lenses
Step 1: Clean your hands thoroughly with soap and rinse with a smooth towel, preferably cotton.
Step 2: Start by removing the lenses one at a time. Place them in your palm and add a few drops of cleaning solution for lenses. Do not use water at this stage. Always consult a doctor to ask for a cleaning solution if you are unsure what to use.
Step 3: With your fingertip, rub the lenses gently in a circular motion for about 10 seconds for each lens. This helps with the removal of bacteria and other surface deposits in the lenses.
Step 4: After rubbing, rinse the lens thoroughly by taking a few extra drops of the cleaning solution.
Step 5: Place the lens after cleaning in a clean lens case filled with fresh solution to keep it free from pathogens and dust while storing.
Tips To Increase The Usability Of Contact Lenses
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Follow the schedule recommended by your eye doctor while wearing contact lenses
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Don’t forget to follow the directions of usage and cleaning prescribed by the lens manufacturers. Consider using the cleaning solution recommended by them, since different lenses can react differently to varying pH levels.
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Contact lenses can change shape over time due to corneal modifications. If there are any irritations, stop using lenses and consult a doctor.
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External water and contact lenses do not mix well. Therefore, avoid using contact lenses while swimming or bathing.
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Use new solutions while cleaning. Old or used solutions can damage the lenses.
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Replace the lens case at least every three months to prevent contact lenses from cracking.
Specsmakers: Home of the Best-in-Class Contact Lenses
Specsmakers was founded with the mission of providing a clear vision for all people with advanced and affordable eyewear. Affordable glasses and contact lenses that do not compromise quality are so hard to find these days. Specsmakers have taken up this challenge wholeheartedly and strive to supply quality eyewear throughout India. Whether you want to improve your vision or just want to boost your fashion sense with a stylish frame, consider visiting Specsmakers. Our 24/7 customer service points are ready to help you choose the best option.
Visited our website to explore the wide array of eyeglasses, sunglasses, power glasses, computer glasses, clip-ons, and contact lenses available at our stores. We have more than 250 retail locations across Chennai, Bengaluru, Coimbatore, Hyderabad, Erode, Arakkonam, Guntur, Hosur, Kanchipuram, Karur, Karaikudi, Kumbakonam, Madurai, Mangaluru, Mysore, Nagercoil, Nellore, Puducherry, Salem, Thanjavur, Tuticorin, Tumkur, Trichy, Tirunelveli, Tirupur, Tirupati and Vellore, and we are expanding to more locations.
Conclusion
Contact lenses are game changers for people whose faces don’t suit eyeglasses. They can amplify your natural beauty. Different coloured contact lenses can complement fashion outfits very well. People who use contact lenses must be wary of the steps they must take to keep them clean and crack-free.
Silicone polymer contact lenses have water-absorbing properties. Therefore, refrain from using normal water while cleaning. Always opt for the manufacturer-recommended cleaning solution. Rub the lenses gently with cleaning solution in a circular motion for thorough cleaning of the surfaces. Place the lens after cleaning in a clean lens case filled with fresh solution to keep it free from pathogens and dust while storing. If any irritation arises during usage, consult an eye doctor and get the contact lenses modified.
FAQs
1. Can I clean my contact lenses with water?
No. Tap water can contain harmful microorganisms that can lead to serious eye infections. Always use sterile contact lens solution.
2. Do I really need to rub the lenses while cleaning?
Yes, gently rubbing your lenses with clean fingers removes more deposits and bacteria. It improves overall lens hygiene.
3. Can I reuse contact lens solution?
No, reusing the solution reduces its effectiveness and increases the risk of infection.
4. How often should I replace my contact lenses?
You should replace contact lenses every three months.
5. Are darker lenses always better for sun protection?
No, not necessarily. The UV ray protection depends on many factors, such as the make of the lens and the coating.
