You only have one pair of eyes, so it’s important to take care of them – and that includes taking care of your contact lenses and how you wear them. As a reminder of the importance of healthy contact lens habits, we’ve rounded up seven of the most surprising health facts about contact lenses.
- You shouldn’t have to ask your optometrist for your prescription.
Federal law requires that prescribers provide you with a copy of your prescription every time.
Source: FTC.gov
- Those who buy their contact lenses online report higher levels of compliance with manufacturers suggested wear guidelines.
You are more likely to wear clean lenses and stick to your prescription when it is convenient and affordable.
- They also show fewer instances of eye infections.
Again, using clean lenses is easier when it is made convenient and within your budget!
- Those who buy online go to the doctor just as frequently as those who don’t.
… Not counting all the return trips you’d have to make to pick up the contacts if you buy them from your doctor.
- You should always switch to the new case provided with your new order.
You can prevent bacteria and keep your new lenses clean by always using the new lens case provided with any new set of contacts. If you aren’t provided one, be sure to regularly clean the case thoroughly to keep your new lenses clean.
- You should never sleep* or swim with your contact lenses.
*It’s best to take out your lenses at night, even if approved for sleeping.
- Buying contact lenses online makes no difference on your eye health.
Since 2003, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has found no adverse health effects on consumers that can be attributed to their purchasing their lenses online. You can rest easy knowing that buying online does not put you at a higher risk for eye infection!
Remember to always follow your prescriber and manufacturer instructions when using contact lenses and you can keep your eyes healthy for years to come.
Want to learn more? See the Center for Disease Control (CDC) website on Contact Lens Health Week, August 22-26, 2016.