**Contact Lens Hygiene: Simple Habits That Protect Your Eyes**
Contact lenses offer wonderful freedom, but that freedom comes with a small daily responsibility: good hygiene. The vast majority of contact lens complications we see at Brian D Suttie Opticians in Chesham are entirely preventable, and a few simple habits make all the difference between comfortable, healthy wear and avoidable trouble.
The golden rule is simple: always wash and thoroughly dry your hands before touching your lenses or your eyes. Water and contact lenses do not mix, so never rinse or store lenses in tap water, and remove them before swimming or showering. Waterborne microorganisms, though rare, can cause serious corneal infections.
If you wear monthly or two-weekly lenses, care for them properly. Rub and rinse each lens with fresh solution, never top up old solution in the case, and replace your lens case at least every three months. Daily disposable lenses remove much of this routine entirely, as each day starts with a completely fresh, sterile lens, which is one reason they remain our most recommended option for many wearers.
Equally important is respecting your wearing schedule. Sleeping in lenses not designed for overnight wear starves the cornea of oxygen, and stretching monthly lenses beyond their replacement date increases deposits and discomfort. If your eyes ever become red, painful, watery or unusually sensitive to light, remove your lenses immediately and contact us for advice.
Regular contact lens check-ups at our independent practice ensure your lenses still fit well, your prescription remains accurate, and the surface of your eye stays healthy. Our experienced team fits everything from daily disposables to specialist toric, multifocal and gas permeable lenses, always with your long-term eye health in mind.
Look after your lenses, and they will look after you. Book your contact lens appointment at Brian D Suttie Opticians in Chesham today.