How to remove contact lenses properly

Contact lenses are a practical and comfortable option for correcting short-sightedness, long-sightedness or astigmatism. However, to avoid discomfort, irritation or eye infections, it is essential to learn how to insert and remove them properly. In this article, we focus on how to remove contact lenses safely and with techniques that help protect your eye health.

Why is it important to remove contact lenses correctly?

Removing contact lenses incorrectly can lead to several problems, from minor discomfort to more serious eye issues. The most common risks include:

• Eye irritation: rough handling can damage the cornea or conjunctiva.
• Infections: lenses can accumulate bacteria and other microorganisms.
• Lens damage: pinching or stretching them too much can tear or deform them.
• Dryness and redness: poor handling can affect the eye's natural comfort.

Preparation before removing contact lenses

• Wash and dry your hands thoroughly.
• Use a clean, well-lit mirror.
• Try to stay calm and avoid rushing the process.
• If the lenses feel dry, use suitable lubricating drops first.

How to remove soft contact lenses

Look upwards, gently pull down the lower eyelid with one finger and slide the lens downwards with another finger. Then pinch it gently and remove it without using your nails.

How to remove rigid or gas-permeable lenses

For rigid lenses, open the eyelids well and use the technique recommended by your eye care specialist. In many cases, blinking while gently stretching the outer corner of the eye helps release the lens.

If you are still unsure, it is always worth checking our guide to the different types of contact lenses and how to choose them.

Techniques for removing soft contact lenses

Soft contact lenses are more flexible and adapt to the shape of the eye, so they require delicate handling. Keep the following steps in mind:

• Blink several times: this helps move the lens towards the centre of the eye.
• Hold the upper eyelid: with one hand, keep the upper eyelid open to prevent involuntary blinking.
• Gently pull down the lower eyelid: with the other hand, gently lower the lower eyelid.
• Pinch the lens: using your thumb and index finger, gently pinch the lens until it comes out. Do not squeeze too hard to avoid tearing it.
• Place the lens in its case: immediately after removing it, place the lens in the case with the appropriate multipurpose solution.

If the lens is too stuck to the eye, apply a drop of moisturising solution before trying to remove it and avoid forcing it.

Techniques for removing rigid or gas-permeable lenses

Rigid or gas-permeable contact lenses require a different technique because they are less flexible:

• Look upwards: this allows the lens to move towards the lower part of the eye.
• Gently hold the lower eyelid: this makes removal easier.
• Use your index finger: gently push the lens towards the edge of the eyelid.
• Suction or pinch carefully: some rigid lenses are removed with a small pinch, while others require a specific suction cup recommended by the professional.
• Store in a case with solution: as with soft lenses, they should always be kept in the appropriate solution to maintain cleanliness and shape.

Other useful tips include keeping your nails short, as long nails can damage the lens or the eye; not sharing contact lenses, because this carries a high risk of infection; not wearing them for longer than recommended; and checking the lens before putting it in to make sure it has no tears, deposits or particles.

If you are unsure which contact lenses to choose, you will find a wide selection of daily, weekly, fortnightly and monthly contact lenses on the Farmaciasdirect website, as well as options for different needs.