How to Remove Contact Lenses
Taking your contacts out at the end of the day shouldn't be a struggle. Follow our simple guide to remove your lenses safely and effortlessly.
The Step-by-Step Guide
Wash & Dry Hands
Always start with impeccably clean hands. Wash them with a mild, unfragranced soap and dry them completely using a lint-free towel to ensure no tap water transfers to your eyes.
Look Up & Pull Down
Look straight into a well-lit mirror, tilt your chin down slightly, and look up toward the ceiling. Use the middle finger of your dominant hand to gently pull down your lower eyelid.
Slide the Lens
Using the index finger of your dominant hand, gently touch the lower edge of the contact lens. Slowly slide the lens down to the lower white part of your eye (the sclera). Doing this keeps the lens away from your sensitive cornea.
Pinch and Remove
Once the lens is on the white part of your eye, gently squeeze the lens between your thumb and index finger. This will break the suction, allowing you to easily lift it away from your eye.
Store or Discard
If you are wearing daily disposables, simply throw them away in the trash. If you wear bi-weeklies or monthlies, clean them properly and place them in a clean case with fresh solution.
What to Do If Your Contact Lens Is Stuck
If your eye is dry, the lens can feel securely suctioned onto your cornea. Never force it off or pinch it aggressively. Applying force can scratch your eye or tear the lens. Instead, apply several drops of sterile rewetting solution or saline directly into your eye. Blink a few times, close your eye, and massage your eyelid gently. Wait a few moments for the lens to rehydrate before trying to gently slide it down again.
The Do's
- Always start with the same eye every time so you don't mix up your right and left prescriptions.
- Ensure your fingertips are completely dry; wet fingers will slip on the lens.
- Always remove your lenses before taking off your makeup.
- Empty out old solution from your case daily and let the case air dry.
The Don'ts
- Never use your fingernails to pinch the lens; only use the soft pads of your fingers.
- Never force a dry or stuck lens off your eye.
- Do not top-off old contact lens solution in your case. Always use fresh solution.
- Avoid rushing the process—take your time to avoid scratching your eye.
Common Questions
Still Having Trouble?
It takes practice to get comfortable! If you are still struggling to remove your lenses safely, our expert team in the Marina District is here to help walk you through the process in person.
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