How to Avoid Eye Infections When Wearing Colored Contact Lenses in Miami
A pair of colored contact lenses can change your entire look, but are you taking the right steps to protect your eyes while wearing them?
Many people focus on choosing the perfect shade but overlook simple hygiene habits that keep their eyes safe. Dirty hands, improper lens storage, and wearing contacts for too long can increase the risk of eye infections.
If you’re considering colored contact lenses in Miami, understanding these risks can help you enjoy your lenses without putting your eye health at risk.
Why Do Colored Contact Lenses Increase the Risk of Eye Infections?
Colored contact lenses sit directly on the surface of your eyes. Poor handling, improper cleaning, or incorrect fitting can introduce harmful microorganisms and increase the risk of infection.
Here are some common causes:
- Bacterial contamination: Touching lenses with unwashed hands can transfer bacteria and dirt to your eyes.
- Improper cleaning and storage: Reusing old solution or storing lenses in an unclean case can encourage microbial growth.
- Poorly fitted lenses: Lenses that do not fit properly may irritate the cornea and cause scratches, making infections more likely.
- Water exposure: Tap water, swimming pools, and hot tubs can contain microorganisms that may contaminate contact lenses.
7 Ways to Prevent Eye Infections When Wearing Colored Contact Lenses in Miami
Following a few simple habits can help reduce infection risks and keep your eyes comfortable.
1. Always Get a Prescription and Professional Lens Fitting
Even if you have perfect vision, colored contact lenses require a prescription and proper fitting. An eye-care professional checks your eye health, measures your eyes, and recommends suitable lenses. If you are considering prescription colored contacts Miami, schedule an eye examination before making a purchase.
2. Wash and Dry Your Hands Before Handling Colored Contacts
Always wash your hands with soap and water before touching your lenses. Dry them with a clean, lint-free towel. This prevents dirt, oils, and bacteria from transferring to your lenses. Avoid handling contacts immediately after applying lotions or creams.
3. Clean and Disinfect Your Lenses With the Recommended Solution
Reusable colored contacts need proper cleaning and disinfection. Use a fresh contact lens solution recommended by your eye-care professional. Never use tap water, saliva, or homemade cleaning mixtures. Also, avoid topping off old solutions in your lens case. Follow the product instructions every time.
4. Never Sleep While Wearing Colored Contact Lenses
Sleeping in contact lenses can reduce oxygen reaching your cornea and increase the risk of eye infections. Remove your lenses before going to bed unless your eye-care professional has specifically prescribed an approved extended-wear schedule.
5. Avoid Wearing Colored Contacts While Swimming or Showering
Water can carry harmful microorganisms, including Acanthamoeba, which can cause serious eye infections. Remove your lenses before swimming, showering, or using a hot tub. If your lenses accidentally come into contact with water, follow professional guidance about discarding or disinfecting them.
6. Follow the Recommended Lens Replacement Schedule
Every contact lens has a specific replacement schedule. Daily disposable lenses should be discarded after one use, while reusable lenses must be replaced according to their prescribed schedule. Never extend their lifespan to save money. Whether you explore eye color changing contacts, brickell or other styles, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Never Share Your Colored Contact Lenses With Others
Sharing lenses can transfer bacteria and other microorganisms between users. Even if you and a friend have similar eye prescriptions, your lenses may not fit the same way. Keep your contact lenses personal and never exchange them.
Where to Get Professionally Fitted Colored Contact Lenses in Miami
Choosing colored contact lenses requires more than picking your favorite shade. A professional eye examination ensures the lenses fit properly and are suitable for your eyes. Even decorative lenses require a prescription to help prevent irritation and infections.
At Eyes on Brickell, you can explore contact lens options with professional eye-care guidance.
Whether you’re looking for color contacts in Miami or the best coloured contact lenses in Brickell, professional eye-care guidance can help you make a safer choice.
Visit us at 2885 SW 3rd Ave, Suite 100, Miami, FL 33129, to explore contact lens options and get professional guidance for your eyes.
FAQs
1. Can colored contact lenses cause eye infections?
Yes. Poor hygiene, improper storage, water exposure, and wearing ill-fitting lenses can increase the risk of eye infections.
2. How often should I clean colored contact lenses?
Clean and disinfect reusable lenses after each use according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Daily disposable lenses should be discarded after one use.
3. Can I swim while wearing colored contact lenses?
No. Swimming with contact lenses increases the risk of contamination. Remove them before entering pools, oceans, or hot tubs.
4. How long can I safely wear colored contact lenses?
Wear time depends on the lens type and your eye-care professional’s instructions. Never exceed the recommended daily wearing time.
5. What should I do if my eyes become red after wearing colored contacts?
Remove your lenses immediately and stop wearing them. Redness accompanied by pain, blurred vision, discharge, or light sensitivity requires urgent evaluation by an eye-care professional.
6. Are prescription colored contact lenses safer than non-prescription lenses?
Both require a prescription and professional fitting. Safety depends on proper fit, lens quality, hygiene, and following the recommended wearing schedule.
