How to put in & take out your contact lenses

Follow our step-by-step guide. Spoiler alert – it’s easier than you think

eye

If you’ve never tried contact lenses before, the idea of wearing them may seem daunting. It can take a bit of getting used to, but with a bit of practice and know how, putting them in and taking them out will soon become second nature. Follow our step-be-step guide and we'll help you find the technique that works best for you.

Some lenses are made from different materials and may need to be handled differently. It is important to consult a trained professional as there are different techniques for putting in and removing different types of contact lenses and we'll help you find the technique that works best for you.

Putting your contact lenses in 

Step 1

Wash your hands with plain soap without any moisturisers or perfumes, rinse well, then dry your hands.

Step 2

Check that the contact lens is the right way up. Place the contact lens on the tip of your index finger and hold it up to the light. It should look like a bowl with straight edges. If the edges curve outwards it's inside out – just add a few drops of solution and gently turn the contact lens the right way round.

Step 3

Place the contact lens on the tip of your index finger and with the middle finger of the same hand pull down your lower eyelid. Use the fingers of your other hand to lift your upper eyelid and place the contact lens directly onto your eye.

Step 4

Whilst looking down release the lower eyelid first, then the upper lid. Blink gently to centre the contact lens.

Tip: Your contact lenses for your left and right eye might be slightly different, depending on your vision needs and prescription. Inserting the same lens first every time will help make sure that you get the correct contact lens into each eye!

Removing your contact lenses 

Step 1

Wash your hands with plain soap without any moisturisers or perfumes, rinse well, then dry your hands. 

Step 2

Look up and keep your head straight. Use your middle finger to pull down your lower eyelid. 

Step 3

Using the same hand place the tip of your index finger on the lower edge of the contact lens and slide it downward, onto the white part of your eye. 

Step 4

Using the same hand gently pinch the contact lens between thumb and index finger and slowly remove the lens from your eye. This technique is just one way you can put in and take out your contact lenses. Watch how Anna and Anthony put theirs in, you might find a technique better suited to you.

It can take a while to get used to handling contact lenses, so don’t worry if you don’t get the hang of it straight away. 

Looking after your reusable contact lenses 

Reusable contact lenses should be cleaned and stored in the contact lens case and solution that has been recommended by your opticians or contact lens optician. Never use tap water to clean your contact lenses or lens case. 

Daily disposable contact lenses should be thrown away.