For millions of contact lens wearers, handling lenses is a daily routine. But hidden within this simple habit are risks that many overlook, particularly when it comes to water. Proper hand hygiene is your first and best line of defence.
The Hidden Danger in Your Tap Water
While your tap
water is safe to drink, it is not sterile. It contains microorganisms that are normally harmless but can pose a significant threat to your eyes. The most notorious of these is Acanthamoeba, a microscopic organism commonly found in tap water, lakes, swimming pools, and soil. If this microbe gets trapped between your contact lens and your cornea, it can cause Acanthamoeba keratitis, a severe and painful infection that is difficult to treat and can lead to permanent vision loss or even blindness. Health authorities like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) explicitly warn contact lens wearers to never expose their lenses to any type of water.
The Correct Way to Wash Your Hands
Simply rinsing your hands under the tap is not enough and can be counterproductive, as it may expose your hands to the very microorganisms you want to avoid. The key is to use soap and water to thoroughly remove germs and natural oils from your skin. Always use a mild, lotion-free soap, as creamy or perfumed soaps can leave a residue on your hands that transfers to your lenses, causing irritation. Lather the soap and scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds, making sure to clean the backs of your hands, between your fingers, and under your fingernails. This mechanical rubbing action is vital for dislodging dirt and microbes.
Why Drying Your Hands Is Just as Crucial
Washing your hands is only half the battle; drying them properly is equally important. Microbes found in tap water can linger on wet hands. If you handle your lenses with even slightly damp fingers, you can transfer those dangerous organisms directly onto the lens and into your eye. After washing, you must dry your hands completely with a clean, lint-free towel. Using a towel that sheds fibres can leave tiny particles on your fingers that may stick to your lens and cause discomfort or scratch your eye. An air dryer can be an alternative, but ensure your hands are totally dry before proceeding.
A Step-by-Step Hygiene Guide
To ensure maximum safety, follow this simple, non-negotiable routine every time you handle your lenses:
1. Stand in a clean, well_lit area.
2. Wash your hands thoroughly with a mild, non_oily soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
3. Rinse your hands completely to remove all soap residue.
4. Dry your hands completely with a fresh, lint_free towel.
5. Once your hands are clean and dry, you can safely handle your lenses. Always use fresh, commercially prepared sterile solution to rinse and store your contacts—never water or saliva.
Common Hygiene Mistakes to Avoid
Many common habits can compromise the safety of your contact lenses. It is critical to avoid these pitfalls:
- Rinsing lenses or the lens case with tap water.
- Showering, swimming, or using a hot tub while wearing contact lenses.
- Using saliva to wet a lens.
- 'Topping off' old solution in your case instead of emptying it, cleaning the case, and refilling with fresh solution.
- Applying lotions, creams, or makeup before inserting your lenses. Always put lenses in first.
- Using a dirty or lint_producing towel to dry your hands.
