Patient Resources

How to Put In Contact Lenses

Whether you are a first-time wearer or just need a refresher, follow our step-by-step guide to applying your lenses safely and comfortably.

The Step-by-Step Guide

01

Wash & Dry Hands

Always start with clean hands. Wash them thoroughly with mild, unfragranced soap. Dry them completely using a lint-free towel to ensure no water or fuzz transfers to your lenses.

02

Inspect the Lens

Place the lens on the tip of your index finger and hold it up to the light. It should form a perfect bowl or "U" shape. If the top edges flare out slightly, the lens is inside out. Gently flip it over.

03

Hold Eyelids Open

Look straight ahead into a well-lit mirror. Use the middle finger of the hand holding the lens to pull your lower eyelid down. Use the index or middle finger of your opposite hand to lift your upper eyelid.

04

Place the Lens

Keep both eyes open and look steadily into the mirror. Gently bring your index finger toward your eye and place the lens smoothly on the center. The natural moisture of your eye will grab the lens.

05

Release and Blink

Slowly pull your index finger away. Look up, down, left, and right to help the lens settle. Slowly release your eyelids and blink gently a few times. The lens will naturally center itself.

Best Practices

The Do's

  • Always insert your lenses before applying your makeup.
  • Always remove your lenses before taking off your makeup.
  • Use fresh lens solution every single time you store them.
  • Keep your fingernails smooth and relatively short to avoid scratching the lens or your eye.
Protect Your Eyes

The Don'ts

  • Never use tap water or saliva to clean or lubricate your lenses.
  • Never sleep in your lenses unless specifically prescribed by your optometrist.
  • Do not wear a lens if it appears torn or damaged in any way.
  • Avoid showering or swimming with your lenses in to prevent bacterial infections.

When to Call Us Instead

If your eye is red, painful, sensitive to light, or the lens is torn or lost in your eye, stop immediately and call (415) 921-1444 for assistance.

Troubleshooting

Common Questions

No, this is a very common myth. A thin membrane called the conjunctiva connects the inside of your eyelids to the white part of your eye, creating a physical barrier. A lens can slide under your upper eyelid, but it is physically impossible for it to get lost behind your eye.
If you feel immediate discomfort, the lens might be inside out, or there may be a tiny piece of dust trapped underneath. Wash your hands, remove the lens, rinse it thoroughly with your contact lens solution, check the shape, and try putting it in again.
Place the lens on your fingertip and look at it from the side. If it forms a perfect "U" shape like a bowl, it is correct. If the edges flare outward like a soup plate, it is inside out. Simply flip it over.
Your hands carry bacteria and oils. Always wash your hands with unfragranced soap and dry them with a lint-free towel before handling lenses to prevent severe eye infections and keep your lenses clean.
Absolutely not. Never use tap water on your lenses or in your eyes. Tap water contains microorganisms that can cause vision-threatening infections. Always use fresh, sterile contact lens solution.
It is completely normal to struggle at first! Practice makes perfect. Take a break if your eyes get red or irritated. If you need in-person help, our team at City Optix is always happy to schedule a refresher training session.

Still Having Trouble?

It takes practice! If you are still struggling to get a comfortable fit, our expert team in the Marina District is here to help you find the perfect lens and walk you through the process in person.

Book an Appointment

Marina District’s most trusted optometrist since the 1980s. Where luxury eyewear meets exceptional eye care.

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