Contact lenses are a flexible and comfortable option for vision correction, allowing wearers to go about their day without the visual obstruction of eyeglasses. Yet, for many people considering contact lenses for the first time—or even those who have worn them for years—there are a host of common questions. From concerns about age suitability to safe usage practices, this guide provides thorough answers to the most frequently asked questions about contact lenses.

Whether you’re curious about daily use, lifespan, or water safety, this article addresses the most relevant contact lens queries. Let’s explore the essential facts to help you make informed decisions for your eye health.

Who Can Wear Contact Lenses?

Am I Too Old/Young for Contact Lenses?

One of the most common questions among new users is whether they are the “right age” for contact lenses. The good news is that there’s no strict age limit. Children as young as eight years old can successfully wear contact lenses, provided they demonstrate the maturity and responsibility needed to follow hygiene practices. For children, soft daily disposable lenses are usually recommended to reduce the need for cleaning and storage.

On the other end of the spectrum, older adults can benefit from multifocal lenses or lenses designed for dry eyes. Age-related presbyopia, which reduces near vision after 40, can also be corrected with specialized contacts. Ultimately, suitability depends more on eye health, lifestyle, and motivation than on age. Your optometrist will conduct an evaluation to help determine whether contacts are a good fit for your specific needs.

Selecting the Right Type of Lens

How Do I Know Which Contact Lenses Are Right for Me?

Contact lenses come in many varieties, and finding the perfect fit involves more than just your prescription. Your eye shape, tear production, lifestyle, and visual demands all play a part in determining which type of lens is most suitable. Options include:

• Daily disposables: Convenient and hygienic with no cleaning required.
• Monthly or bi-weekly lenses: Cost-effective but require diligent cleaning.
• Toric lenses: Designed for people with astigmatism.
• Multifocal lenses: Ideal for correcting presbyopia.
• Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) lenses: Provide crisp vision for some users with high prescriptions or corneal conditions.

During a contact lens fitting, your optometrist will assess your eyes and recommend lenses based on medical and lifestyle considerations. You may also be offered trial lenses to evaluate comfort and performance before finalizing your prescription.

Safe Usage and Best Practices

Can I Sleep in My Contact Lenses?

Sleeping in contact lenses is a major risk factor for eye infections, unless your lenses are specifically designed and approved for overnight or extended wear. While some silicone hydrogel lenses allow more oxygen to reach the cornea, reducing risk, even these should be used with caution.

Wearing lenses overnight can lead to corneal hypoxia, a condition where your eye does not receive enough oxygen. This can cause redness, irritation, blurred vision, and increase your risk of developing microbial keratitis—a potentially sight-threatening infection. Always consult your optometrist and follow their advice regarding safe wear and removal routines.

How Long Do Contact Lenses Last?

How long contact lenses last depends on their design. Here’s a breakdown:

• Daily disposables: Worn once and discarded.
• Bi-weekly lenses: Worn for up to 14 days with nightly removal and cleaning.
• Monthly lenses: Can be worn up to 30 days with proper cleaning.
• Rigid lenses: These can last several months to years, depending on care and materials.

Exceeding the recommended wear time increases the risk of deposits building up on the lens surface, leading to discomfort or infection. Following your optometrist’s instructions on replacement schedules is critical for maintaining healthy eyes.

Handling Unexpected Situations

What Should I Do if My Contact Lens Gets Stuck?

If a contact lens becomes stuck in your eye, remain calm. Rubbing your eye is the worst thing you can do, as it may damage your cornea. Instead, follow these steps:

1. Wash your hands thoroughly.
2. Apply lubricating drops or saline solution to your eye.
3. Blink gently to encourage the lens to shift.
4. Look in different directions to help move the lens toward the white part of your eye.
5. Use clean fingertips to remove the lens once it becomes visible and mobile.

If the lens remains stuck or you experience pain or redness, contact your optometrist promptly. In rare cases, professional removal may be necessary to avoid injury or infection.

Can I Swim or Shower While Wearing Contacts?

Wearing contact lenses in water—whether in pools, oceans, lakes, or showers—is strongly discouraged. Water can introduce bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms into the eye, some of which can cause severe infections. One of the most dangerous is Acanthamoeba keratitis, which can lead to blindness if not treated promptly.

If you require vision correction during swimming, prescription goggles are a safer alternative. Some people also use daily disposable lenses with goggles and discard them immediately after swimming. In all cases, contact lenses should not be worn in water unless absolutely necessary and under medical supervision.

Enhancing Comfort and Longevity

What Can I Do to Improve Comfort While Wearing Contacts?

Contact lens discomfort is often related to dry eyes, allergies, poor lens hygiene, or prolonged screen use. To improve comfort:

• Use lubricating eye drops approved for contact lens use.
• Follow the recommended wearing schedule.
• Take regular breaks when using screens.
• Keep lenses clean and use fresh solution daily.
• Avoid smoky, dusty, or air-conditioned environments for extended periods.

If discomfort persists, visit your optometrist to rule out underlying conditions or to consider switching to a different type of lens.

Contact Lens Hygiene: Essential Dos and Don’ts

Good hygiene is key to preventing complications when wearing contact lenses. Follow these essential rules:

Dos:

• Wash and dry your hands before handling lenses.
• Use fresh solution each time you clean or store your lenses.
• Replace your lens case every three months.
• Keep your follow-up appointments for routine eye checks.

Don’ts:

• Never use tap water or saliva to clean lenses.
• Don’t top off old solution with new solution.
• Don’t sleep, shower, or swim with lenses unless advised by your optometrist.
• Avoid sharing contact lenses, even for costume purposes.

These steps will help ensure long-term eye health and reduce your risk of infection or irritation.

When to See Your Optometrist

While contact lenses are generally safe and effective, certain symptoms require immediate attention. Book an appointment if you experience:

• Persistent redness or irritation
• Pain or sensitivity to light
• Sudden blurred vision
• Discharge or excessive tearing
• Foreign body sensation that doesn’t improve

Prompt treatment can prevent complications and ensure your continued comfort and safety while wearing lenses.

Taking Control of Your Contact Lens Experience

Making the switch to contact lenses—or optimizing your current lens routine—starts with understanding the facts. By answering the most common questions, from age suitability to care techniques, this guide aims to help you wear lenses with greater confidence and safety.

If you’re still unsure whether contact lenses are right for you, schedule a comprehensive eye exam and consultation. Your optometrist can walk you through all your options and tailor recommendations to fit your needs, lifestyle, and long-term eye health goals.

Remember: contact lenses are medical devices. With proper use and expert guidance, they offer clarity, convenience, and a frame-free experience that fits seamlessly into your daily life.