How to Put in a Soft Contact Lens the First Time

If you are a new soft contact lens wearer, insertion and removal of the lenses can be intimidating. Soft lenses can turn inside out and do not always go in the first time you try. Putting your lenses in is easier when you use care to handle lenses correctly and know what to expect in advance.

Things You'll Need

• Saline solution

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Instructions

• 1

  Wash your hands thoroughly. Always use clean hands when touching, cleaning, putting in or taking out your lenses.

• 2

  Always start with your right lens. Put it in first and take it out first to help avoid mixing up the lenses.

• 3

  Verify that your lens is right side out. Soft lenses can flip inside out. To make sure the lens is correct, place it on the tip of your index finger. Hold the lens at eye level. If the lens looks more bowl shaped, like a "u" with the edges pointing up, it is correct. If the lens looks more like a plate, with the edges pointing out, flip it the other way and check it again. You may need to flip it back and forth a few times to make sure the lens is correct.

• 4

  Pull up the upper lid of your right eye. Pull down the lower lid with your fingers and thumb of your left hand at the same time.

• 5

  Look up or straight ahead. Gently position the lens on your eye, then pull your index finger straight back. Let go of your lower lid, then your upper lid. Slowly close your eye.

• 6

  Repeat with the left lens.