Colored contact lenses are a beautiful way to express your personality, enhance your natural features, or switch up your look for special occasions. But whether you're drawn to subtle hazel or dramatic gray, wearing lenses safely requires knowledge, care, and a few smart habits.
At Eye Candy by Joelle, we believe beauty should never compromise comfort or eye health. If you're new to colored lenses, this complete beginner’s guide will walk you through everything you need to know to wear them with confidence — and care.
Step 1: Wash and Dry Your Hands (Every Time)
Before handling your lenses — whether you’re putting them in or taking them out — wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Dry them with a lint-free towel to avoid transferring fibers or bacteria to your eyes.
Clean hands are the foundation of lens safety. Never skip this step, even if you’re in a hurry.
Step 2: Know the Right Way to Apply Lenses
Applying lenses for the first time can feel intimidating, but with practice, it becomes second nature. Here’s how to do it right:
✔️ Inserting Your Lenses:
- Place the lens on the tip of your index finger — it should look like a perfect dome.
- Hold your upper eyelid gently with one hand to prevent blinking.
- Pull your lower lid down with the finger holding the lens.
- Look upward or straight ahead, and gently place the lens on your eye.
- Blink slowly to help the lens settle.
💡 If the lens feels uncomfortable, remove it, rinse it with solution, and try again. It should feel smooth — not scratchy or dry.
Step 3: Clean and Store Lenses Properly (If Not Daily Disposables)
If you're using monthly or bi-weekly lenses, you must follow a strict cleaning and storage routine to avoid infections and ensure your lenses last their full cycle.
Do:
- Use only recommended multipurpose lens solutions
- Rinse lenses before and after use (never with tap water!)
- Store lenses in a clean, dry lens case
- Change the solution in your case daily
Don’t:
- Top off old solution
- Use water, saliva, or homemade solutions
- Wear damaged or torn lenses
Lens hygiene protects both your eyes and your investment.
Step 4: Know How Long to Wear Them
Colored lenses aren’t meant to be worn all day and night. Your eyes need oxygen — and over-wearing can lead to dryness, redness, or irritation.
- First-time users: Start with 4–6 hours per day, then gradually build up to 8–10 hours.
- Never sleep in lenses, unless prescribed specifically for overnight wear (very rare).
- Stick to the replacement schedule: Daily lenses are for one-time use only; monthly lenses should be replaced every 30 days after opening.
Even if lenses “look fine,” old ones accumulate deposits and bacteria over time. Respecting their lifespan keeps your eyes safe and your vision clear.
Step 5: Remove Lenses Gently — and Always Before Makeup Removal
To take out your lenses safely:
- Wash and dry your hands.
- Look up and gently pull down your lower eyelid.
- Use your thumb and index finger to pinch the lens softly.
- Place it in your palm and rinse with solution before storing (if reusable).
Important: Remove lenses before using any makeup remover. Oils, creams, and micellar water can leave residue that transfers to lenses and causes irritation.
Avoid rubbing your eyes while wearing lenses. Use gentle motions when applying or removing makeup around the eye area.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even seasoned lens wearers sometimes fall into bad habits. Here are the top things to avoid:
- Sleeping with your lenses in
- Wearing expired or damaged lenses
- Using tap water to rinse lenses or cases
- Sharing lenses with anyone else — ever
- Skipping lens cleaning (if not daily disposables)
Colored lenses are medical devices, even when used for cosmetic purposes. Treat them with care, just like you would glasses or skincare.