How to Transition from Glasses to Contact Lenses 

Those who wear glasses for vision correction are not unfamiliar with the struggles that tag along. From slipping off the nose to fogging up and incurring scratches to obstructing peripheral vision, glasses can hinder the smooth functioning of day-to-day life. This is why many individuals consider switching from glasses to contact lenses for more freedom and flexibility while enjoying crystal clear vision.  

Whether for aesthetic reasons, comfort, convenience or an active lifestyle, contact lenses have the upper hand and are preferred by many. However, transitioning is more than just applying lenses in your eyes. It requires understanding, patience and some practice. In this comprehensive guide, let’s learn how to transition to lenses smoothly and confidently. 

Consult your optician

First things first, schedule an eye exam appointment with an optician specialising in contact lenses. Even if you already wear prescription glasses, you’d need your eyes to be tested because, compared to glasses, contact lenses require a different prescription with additional specifications, such as base curve, diameter and the brand of the lenses. Also, your optician will conduct a contact lens fitting session to ascertain the best lens type based on the fit and your lifestyle. 

Those who are wearing contact lenses for the very first time may have certain concerns related to the lenses. They should make the most of their visit to the optician and clear their doubts, as the optician can help them make an informed decision based on their lifestyle, budget, comfort and visual requirements.

Get comfortable with handling the lenses

One of the major challenges faced by new contact lens wearers is learning how to put in and remove contact lenses safely. Initially, it may feel a bit strange or daunting to touch your eyes or have something so close to them, but with practice, you can get the hang of it. 

Here are a few tips to be mindful of to make the process easier:

• Always wash and dry your hands before handling the contact lenses (dry with a microfibre cloth).
• Use a mirror and a properly lit room.
• Try putting in one lens at a time and then move to the other eye to avoid mixing up lenses.
• Take your own sweet time and do not rush through the process, as it can lead to discomfort or mishandling.

Take it slow

When switching from glasses to contact lenses, slow is the way to go about it. Don’t wear them all day immediately; give your eyes a while to adjust. Start by wearing them for a few hours a day and gradually increase the wear time as you feel comfortable in the lenses. Pay heed to how your eyes feel with lenses on. You may initially experience some dryness, mild irritation or blurry vision. However, if these symptoms continue to persist or worsen, seek immediate assistance. Never ignore signs of redness, excessive tearing or pain, as they could be a sign of a reaction or infection.

Always maintain proper lens hygiene

Contact lenses require an appropriate care routine for healthy eyes. If you’re using monthlies or two-weeklies, they must be cleaned and properly stored in a fresh contact lens solution every night after use. Never reuse an already used solution or clean it with water, as this can cause bacteria or infection. However, if you’re using daily disposables, discard them after every wear, eliminating the need to clean and store the lenses. Remember to follow the wearing schedule strictly as prescribed by your optician and never wear your lenses longer than instructed.

Keep a spare pair of glasses at hand

It won’t hurt to keep your glasses handy even after switching from glasses to contact lenses. Your eyes may need an occasional break, especially if they become tired, dry or irritated. Also, you may need your spare pair when contact lenses aren’t recommended to wear, such as dusty environments, during an eye infection or late-night binge watching. 

Transitioning from prescription glasses to contact lenses is a learning curve, but it is worth the effort for enhanced convenience and added freedom. Feel Good Contacts, a leading online eyecare retailer, stocks contact lenses from popular brands in most prescriptions at affordable prices.