How to Remove Contact Lenses

Removing your contact lenses should be a simple and stress-free part of your daily routine, but for many people—especially beginners—it can be a daunting task. Whether you're worried about touching your eye or simply unsure of the correct technique, learning the proper method for contact lens removal is essential for your eye health and comfort.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions, tips, and common pitfalls to avoid. We’ll also explore how to use a contact lens remover tool and what to do if a lens gets stuck. Let’s dive in.

Why Proper Contact Lens Removal Matters

Incorrect contact lens removal can lead to a range of issues such as eye irritation, corneal abrasions, and even infections. Using the right technique not only protects your eyes but also extends the life of reusable lenses.

For daily lens wearers, it’s easy to become complacent, but maintaining good hygiene and removal habits is just as important as putting them in correctly. Regular and careful contact lens removal ensures your eyes stay healthy and comfortable.

Preparing for Contact Lens Removal

Wash and Dry Your Hands

Before you begin, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. Dry them with a lint-free towel to prevent fibres from transferring to your eyes or lenses. This is a crucial first step that reduces the risk of eye infections caused by bacteria.

Remove Makeup First

If you’re wearing makeup, remove it beforehand. This prevents smudging and keeps any particles from entering your eye during the contact lens removal process.

Use a Clean, Well-Lit Area

Stand in front of a well-lit mirror, preferably over a clean surface. Some people prefer doing this over a table or bed in case the lens falls—this makes it easier to retrieve and keeps it clean.

Step-by-Step Guide: Removing Soft Contact Lenses with Your Fingers

This is the most common method of contact lens removal used by soft lens wearers.

1. Look Up
   Gently pull down your lower eyelid with your middle finger while looking upwards.

2. Pinch the Lens
   Using the thumb and index finger of your other hand, gently pinch the bottom of the lens and pull it away from the eye. Try not to squeeze too hard.

3. Place the Lens in Your Case (if not disposable)
   If you’re wearing reusable lenses, clean them with a suitable solution and store them in a lens case. If you're using daily disposables, discard them straight away.

Tip: If you’re struggling to grip the lens, blink a few times and try again with slightly drier fingers for better grip.

Using a Contact Lens Remover Tool

A contact lens remover—sometimes called a plunger or suction tool—can be a helpful aid, particularly for those with long nails, poor dexterity, or rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses.

How to Use a Contact Lens Remover

1. Sterilise the Tool
   Rinse the contact lens remover tool with saline solution before use.

2. Look Straight Ahead
   Hold your eye open and look directly at the mirror.

Apply Gently

1. Bring the tool toward the lens until it lightly touches it. For soft lenses, a gentle suction is often enough to lift it away. Avoid pressing too hard.

2. Pull the Lens Away
   Once the lens adheres to the remover, slowly withdraw it and place the lens in your storage case or dispose of it if it’s a daily lens.

When to Use a Contact Lens Remover

• If you struggle to remove lenses with your fingers

• If you wear hard or RGP lenses

• If you have particularly dry eyes

• If you want a more hygienic method

Contact Lens Removal for Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) Lenses

RGP lenses are smaller and more rigid than soft lenses, so the removal process differs slightly. A contact lens remover is often recommended for these lenses.

Technique with Fingers

1. Pull the outer corner of your eye to tighten the skin.

2. Blink forcefully; the lens will often pop out.

3. Catch it with your free hand or over a soft surface.

Technique with a Contact Lens Remover

1. Use the suction end of the remover tool.

2. Gently press onto the centre of the lens.

3. Pull it away from the eye carefully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Contact Lens Removal

• Not washing your hands – increases risk of infection.

• Pulling too hard – may cause discomfort or scratch the eye.

• Forgetting the lens is in – always double-check to avoid over-wearing.

• Using dry eyes – try applying lubricating eye drops before removal if the lens feels stuck.

Practising good contact lens removal habits will make the process easier and safer over time.

What to Do If a Contact Lens Is Stuck

Occasionally, a lens may become difficult to remove—often due to dryness or improper placement.

Try These Steps

1. Blink and Relax
   Stay calm. Stressing will only make removal more difficult.

2. Use Eye Drops
   Apply a few lubricating drops and wait 5–10 minutes to loosen the lens.

3. Look Around
   Move your eyes in all directions; this can help reposition the lens.

4. Use a Contact Lens Remover
   If you still can’t get the lens out, try using a contact lens remover for better control.

When to Seek Help

If you’ve tried the above methods and still can’t remove the lens, contact your optometrist. Never forcefully dig at your eye, as this can lead to serious damage.

Aftercare: Looking After Your Eyes Post-Removal

After successfully removing your contact lenses:

• Rinse and store reusable lenses with the recommended solution.

• Discard daily lenses responsibly.

• Let your eyes rest if they feel irritated.

• Use moisturising eye drops if needed.

Taking care of your eyes after contact lens removal is just as important as wearing lenses correctly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it easier to remove contact lenses with a contact lens remover?

For many people—especially those with dry eyes or long nails—a contact lens remover can make the process much easier and cleaner.

How long does it take to learn proper contact lens removal?

Most users become comfortable within a week or two of consistent practice. Be patient and gentle with yourself.

Can I remove my contact lenses if my eyes are very dry?

Yes, but apply lubricating eye drops first and wait a few minutes. This will help avoid friction during contact lens removal.

Conclusion: Make Contact Lens Removal Part of Your Routine

Mastering the art of contact lens removal is all about practice, patience, and hygiene. Whether you use your fingers or a contact lens remover, always ensure your hands are clean, your eyes are lubricated, and your technique is gentle.

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