What Is Contact Lens Solution: Types: Uses & How To Use Them

Got contact lenses? Great! But do you know all about the lens solution you use? It’s super important for keeping your lenses clean and your eyes happy.  In this blog, we’re going to talk about different types of contact lens solutions, what they do, and how to use them right. Whether you’re a long-time lens user or just got your first pair, knowing about your contact lens solution is a must. So, let’s make sure you’re taking the best care of your eyes and lenses. Ready? Let’s dive in!

What is a Contact Lens Solution?

Millions of people use contact lenses as a savior for weak vision in their daily lives but they require some adequate upkeep care. Here’s a breakdown of what contact lens solution is and why it’s a crucial part of your eye care routine:

What is Contact Lens Solution?

• Contact lens solution is a specially formulated liquid used for cleaning, disinfecting, and storing contact lenses.
• It’s designed to mimic natural tears, ensuring that your lenses stay comfortable and safe to wear.

Role in Lens Care:

• The primary role of lens solution is to keep your lenses clean and free from microorganisms, like bacteria and fungi, which can lead to eye infections.
• It also removes built-up deposits from the lens surface, such as proteins and lipids from your tears, maintaining lens clarity and comfort.

Composition and Function
Most contact lens solutions contain disinfectants to kill germs, saline to match your eye’s natural environment, and other ingredients to enhance lens comfort. Plus, some solutions also include moisturizing agents to keep your lenses and eyes hydrated.

In summary, contact lens solution is an indispensable part of lens care, crucial for maintaining the cleanliness of your lenses and the health of your eyes. Regular use of the right solution can help prevent eye irritation and infections, ensuring a comfortable and safe contact lens-wearing experience.

Different Types of Contact Lens Solutions

The different types of Contact lens solutions used in soft contact lenses are: 

Multipurpose Solution (All In One Solution)

Let’s talk about the multipurpose solution for contact lenses – it’s like a jack-of-all-trades! This handy solution does it all: it cleans, rinses, disinfects, and stores your soft contact lenses. Here’s a simpler look at why it’s so great and some easy tips on how to use it:

• Why It’s Good: Multipurpose solution is super effective against germs that can cause eye infections. It’s got special ingredients like chlorhexidine and polyaminopropyl biguanide (PAPB) that fight off bacteria, and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDPA) to keep your lenses safe and clean.
• Easy Tips for Using It:
  • Rub and Rinse: After cleaning your lenses with it, make sure to rinse them well. Then, store them in a fresh batch of the solution.
  • Keep the Case Clean: Always throw out the used solution from your lens case. Dry the case with a clean tissue before using it again.
  • Don’t Mix Old and New: Never mix used solution with fresh solution – it lessens the effectiveness.
  • Fresh Solution Daily: Use new solution each time you store your lenses. Don’t reuse old solution.
  • Store the Case Right: Keep your clean case on a tissue paper to avoid germs.

Multipurpose solution is your go-to for easy and effective lens care. Just remember these simple tips, and your lenses will stay clean and your eyes happy!

Hydrogen Peroxide-Based Solution

Hydrogen peroxide solutions help in cleaning, disinfecting, and storing contact lenses. These are the solutions that work with hydrogen peroxide to clean and break proteins that get deposited on contact lenses after a long run of use. This is always used with a neutralizing product. 

This product converts the chemical hydrogen peroxide in a few hours. You have to use this solution with care as it can cause burning, stinging, eye infections, etc. If they are kept near the eye as the chemical can be very dangerous for sensitive body parts. Hydrogen peroxide is made through a process known as the “anthraquinone process.”

There are basically two types of hydrogen peroxide solutions that are “one-step” system and “two-step” system:

• ‘One -step” system allows the chemical to react completely so it can convert into pure water. 
• ‘ Two-step’ system, the hydrogen peroxide should be rinsed away with saline before using the lenses.

Some points that should be kept in mind while using  this solution:

• Follow all the instructions mentioned on the label of the solution 
• Store lenses in the lens case with a fresh solution every time. Do not mix used and fresh solutions.
• Never use this solution for rinsing contact lenses and directly using it in your eye. 
• Wait for about 4-6 hours (According to the label)  after rinsing with the solution to use it in your eyes. 

Saline Solution for Contact Lenses

Now, let’s talk about saline solution. It’s pretty straightforward but super important for contact lens care. Here’s what you need to know about saline solution:

• Saline solution is just like it sounds – salt water. It’s a sterile mix of salt and water that’s similar to natural tears. This makes it gentle on your eyes.
• What It Does: Mainly, saline solution is used for rinsing your contact lenses. After you clean your lenses with a cleaning solution, you rinse them off with saline before popping them back in your eyes.
• When to Use It: Saline is great for a final rinse. But remember, it doesn’t clean or disinfect. So, you shouldn’t use it as the only solution for your lenses. It’s more like the last step in your lens care routine.
• Keep It Clean: Just like with other solutions, make sure you’re using fresh saline each time. No reusing or topping off to keep your eyes safe.

In summary, saline solution is the simple, no-fuss way to rinse your lenses. It’s all about making sure your lenses are comfy to wear after they’ve been cleaned. Just use it for rinsing, and you’re good to go!

Daily Cleaners for Contact Lenses

These are specifically designed to clean your contact lenses. They help remove the daily build-up of dirt, proteins, and other debris that can stick to your lenses during the day.

• How They Work: Daily cleaners are used before you disinfect your lenses. You apply a few drops of the cleaner to each lens, gently rub the lens with your fingers, and then rinse them off. This rubbing and rinsing action helps to effectively remove any surface deposits.
• When to Use Them: As the name suggests, you should use them daily, or each time you wear your lenses. It’s a crucial step to keep your lenses clean and your eyes healthy.

Remember, while daily cleaners are great for cleaning, they don’t disinfect your lenses. After using a daily cleaner, you should always use a disinfecting solution or a multipurpose solution to ensure your lenses are safe and ready to wear.

Daily cleaners are your first step in lens maintenance – they ensure that your lenses are free from everyday grime and ready for disinfection. Simple to use and highly effective, they’re a key player in keeping your contact lenses in top shape!

Multipurpose Solutions vs. Hydrogen Peroxide Solutions

Both multipurpose and hydrogen peroxide solutions have their unique benefits and uses. While multipurpose solutions offer convenience and ease of use, hydrogen peroxide solutions provide a deeper clean and are preservative-free, making them a better choice for those with sensitivities or severe allergies. Understanding these differences can help contact lens users choose the best solution for their needs.

Tips To Properly Use A Lens Solution

Using contact lens solution correctly is crucial for maintaining your eye health and extending the life of your lenses. Here’s an easy-to-follow guide on how to use contact lens solution properly for cleaning, rinsing, and storing your lenses:

• Before handling your lenses, always wash your hands with soap and water. Dry them with a lint-free towel to avoid any residue on your lenses.
• Carefully remove one lens and place it in the palm of your hand.
• Pour a generous amount of multipurpose solution onto the lens. If you’re using a daily cleaner, apply the recommended amount.
• Using your index finger, gently rub the lens in a circular motion. This step helps remove any buildup on the lens surface.
• After cleaning, rinse the lens thoroughly with a saline or multipurpose solution to remove any loosened debris and cleaner residue.
• Place the lens in your clean lens case and fill it with fresh multipurpose solution. If you’re using a hydrogen peroxide solution, make sure to use the special case that neutralizes the solution.
• Repeat the same steps for your other lens.
• Close the lens case and leave your lenses to soak for the recommended time (usually overnight) to ensure they are properly disinfected.
• After putting in your lenses, empty the lens case, rinse it with a sterile solution and leave it open to air dry.

Remember, never reuse an old solution or top off with a new solution in your case, as this can reduce the effectiveness of the disinfection process. Regularly replacing your lens case and following these steps can help keep your lenses clean and your eyes healthy.

Conclusion

Looking for some extra care and attention for your eyes? Remember, taking care of your eyes is crucial, especially if you’re a contact lens wearer. The right contact lens solution can make a world of difference in maintaining your eye health and ensuring your lenses are comfortable and clean. With the variety of top-notch solutions available in 2024, there’s something for every type of lens and lifestyle. Now is the perfect time to prioritize your eye health! If you’re looking for expert advice or need a comprehensive eye check-up, don’t hesitate. Book your free appointment today at the Best Eye Hospital in India or give us a call at +91 9711116605.

FAQsAbout Contact Lens Care

• Can eye drops be used as contact lens solution?
  No, eye drops cannot be used as a substitute for contact lens solution. Eye drops are formulated for different purposes and do not have the necessary cleaning and disinfecting properties required for contact lenses. Using them as a lens solution can lead to eye infections or lens damage.
• Can I sleep with contacts?
  It is generally not recommended to sleep with contact lenses unless they are specifically designed for overnight wear. Sleeping in lenses not meant for extended wear can increase the risk of eye infections, reduced oxygen to the cornea, and discomfort.
• Can I store my contacts in saline solution overnight?
  Saline solution does not disinfect contact lenses, so it’s not recommended for overnight storage. It’s essential to use a proper disinfecting solution to ensure your lenses are free from harmful bacteria and safe to wear.
• What is contact lens solution made of?
  Contact lens solutions typically contain a combination of cleaning agents, disinfectants, and conditioners to keep lenses clean, disinfected, and comfortable to wear. Common ingredients include saline (saltwater), detergents, hydrogen peroxide (in some types), and moisturizing agents. Some also contain preservatives to prevent bacterial growth within the solution.