Isla Bennett
Long nails and contact lenses can coexist, but it can be challenging to put in and remove contacts with long nails. It is possible, however, with a few adjustments to the standard removal process. The popular front-on method of pinching the lens off the eye with fingertips won't work with long nails. Instead, you can try the pad pinch method, using the pad of your finger to handle the lens, or an applicator tool. Another method is to use the middle finger of your non-dominant hand to pull your top eyelid upward, then use the middle finger of your dominant hand to slide the lens down to the lower lid, where you can grab it with your middle finger and thumb.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Method | Using the middle finger of the non-dominant hand, pull the top eyelid upward. Using the middle finger of the dominant hand, pull the lower eyelid downward. Then, look toward the nose and blink while gently pushing the eyelids toward each other, using the eyelids to squeeze out the contact lens. |
| Precautions | Wash hands and nails thoroughly. Avoid using the fingertips to pinch the lens off the eye. Use the pad of the finger to handle the lens. |
| Tools | EyeCandys rubber applicator tool with soft, silicone tips. |
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What You'll Learn
Wash hands and nails
Washing your hands and nails is a critical step in contact lens removal, especially if you have long nails. Here are some detailed instructions to ensure proper hand and nail hygiene before touching your eyes:
Choose the Right Soap:
Select a pH-neutral soap with minimal oil and fragrance. These factors are important because soap can irritate your eyes, and you want to minimize the risk of any eye discomfort or damage.
Wash Your Hands Thoroughly:
Lather your hands with the soap, paying special attention to your fingertips and the backs of your hands. Make sure to get between your fingers, as well. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds under running water. You can hum the "Happy Birthday" song twice to keep track of time.
Clean Under Your Nails:
Use a clean nail brush or toothbrush to scrub under your nails. You can also use soap with the nail brush to ensure a thorough cleaning. Be gentle to avoid creating micro-injuries that could increase the risk of infection.
Dry Your Hands and Nails:
After washing, use a clean, lint-free cloth or towel to thoroughly dry your hands and nails. Make sure to dry under your nails as well. This step is important because you don't want any lint or fuzz on your fingers before putting them near your eyes.
Prepare Your Work Area:
Before you begin the process of removing your contact lenses, prepare your work area. Have a clean surface in case you need to set down your lens case or handle a dropped lens. It's also important to have good lighting so you can see your eyes clearly, either with a mirror or by looking directly at your eyes.
Remember, keeping your hands and nails clean is crucial when removing contact lenses, especially with long nails, to minimize the risk of eye infections and scratches.
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Use an applicator tool
If you have long nails, it is important to be careful when removing contact lenses to avoid damaging your eyes or the lenses themselves. One method that can help is to use an applicator tool, such as a miniature plunger designed for this purpose, which can be recommended by an optician. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to remove contact lenses using an applicator tool:
Firstly, ensure your hands are clean by washing them thoroughly with soap and running water for at least 20 seconds. Pay special attention to your fingertips and use a nail brush to scrub underneath your nails to remove any debris. Rinse your hands well and air-dry them if possible to avoid getting lint on your lenses or eyes.
Next, prepare a clean surface to work on. Stand over a clean surface or a sink with a plugged drain to avoid losing your contact lens if you happen to drop it. Prepare a clean contact lens container by rinsing it out with a sterile contact lens solution, not tap water, and allow it to air dry.
Now, you can begin the process of removing your contact lenses. Using your chosen applicator tool, follow the steps your eye doctor or optician has advised for your specific type of lenses and applicator. Generally, you will use the applicator to gently lift the lens off your eye, taking care not to touch your eye directly with the tool.
Once the lens is removed, examine it for any tears or debris before placing it in the prepared contact lens case. Hold the lens up to the light and inspect it for any damage. If the lens is torn or otherwise damaged, discard it instead of storing it.
Finally, repeat the process for your other eye, ensuring that your applicator tool is clean and dry before proceeding. Remember to always handle your lenses and eyes with clean hands and tools to minimize the risk of infection and damage.
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Try the knuckle pinch method
The knuckle pinch method is a popular technique for removing contact lenses with long nails. This method is designed to keep your nails away from your eyes and minimise the risk of damage and infection.
To begin, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, paying special attention to your fingertips and the areas under your nails. Use a nail brush or toothbrush to scrub your fingernails and ensure that you wash your hands for at least 20 seconds. Dry your hands with a clean, lint-free towel.
Next, find a mirror in a well-lit room. You need to be able to see your eyes and the contact lens clearly. Stand over a clean surface, as there is a chance you might drop the contact lens.
Now, look upwards to create some space below your iris. Using your knuckles, not your fingertips or nails, lightly press the lower part of the lens and slide it sideways and downward towards the white of your eye. Using your knuckles again, gently pinch the lens out. The lens should easily detach from your eye without bringing your nails close to your eyes.
Once you've removed the lens, examine it for any tears or debris. A damaged lens can irritate your eye and potentially damage your cornea. If the lens is damaged, discard it. If it's intact, clean the lens by wetting it with a multipurpose solution and rubbing it between your fingers for about 20 seconds. Rinse the lens with fresh solution for about 10 seconds, then store it in a clean case filled with fresh solution.
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Use the pad of your finger
It can be challenging to remove contact lenses with long nails, but it is possible if done carefully. It is important to always wash your hands with soap and water before removing contact lenses. Use an antibacterial soap that is free of strong scents and lotions. Then, dry your hands with a lint-free towel or cloth.
To remove the contact lenses, use the pad of your finger. First, pull your upper eyelid up with your non-dominant hand. You can use your index finger or middle finger to do this. Then, pull your lower eyelid down with your dominant hand. You can use your middle finger or index finger for this step.
Now, use the pad of your finger to slide the contact lens down to the lower white portion of your eye. You can use the index finger of your dominant hand for this. The contact lens will want to re-center itself on your eye, so you may need to try a few times. But once you get it lowered, keep sliding it downward with the pad of your finger until the lens comes off your eye entirely.
When the lens is against the skin of your lower lid, pinch it between your fingers to remove it. You can use the pad of your fingers to gently squeeze the lens and pull it away from your eye. Be careful not to use more force than necessary to avoid damaging the lens or your eye.
It is important to remember that contact lenses are delicate and can be easily damaged if not handled properly. It may take some practice to get used to removing contacts with long nails, but it will become easier with time.
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Pull eyelids down and blink
Pulling your eyelids down and blinking is a popular method for removing contact lenses with long nails. This method is also known as the "pull and blink" method. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Wash Your Hands
It is important to always wash your hands before handling contact lenses, especially if you have long nails. This helps prevent bacteria from getting into your eyes. Make sure to dry your hands with a clean, lint-free towel to avoid any lint or fuzz getting onto your fingers.
Step 2: Pull Your Eyelids Down
Using your non-dominant hand, gently pull your eyelids down to open your eye wide. You can use the middle finger of your non-dominant hand to pull the top eyelid and the index finger of the same hand to pull the lower eyelid.
Step 3: Blink and Squeeze
Once your eye is open wide, look toward your nose and blink gently while squeezing your eyelids together. This action will help squeeze the contact lens out of your eye. You can also try looking from top to bottom while blinking to help dislodge the lens.
Step 4: Pinch and Remove
When the contact lens is on the outer corner of your eye, use the fleshy pad of your finger to slide the lens toward the outer corner and pinch it gently between your fingers to remove it. Make sure to avoid using your nails and only use the pads of your fingers.
Step 5: Lubricate and Store
If you have difficulty removing the contact lens, you can use a saline solution to lubricate your eye and help remove the lens more easily. After removing the lens, properly store it in a contact lens solution and a safe, enclosed container.
Remember to always be gentle and cautious when removing contact lenses with long nails to avoid scratching your eyes or the lenses themselves.
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Frequently asked questions
It is possible to remove contacts with long nails, but you need to be careful. Wash your hands and nails thoroughly with soap, making sure to scrub under your nails with a brush. Avoid using the popular "front-on" method, as this requires you to use your fingertips to pinch the lens off your eye. Instead, try the pad pinch method, using the pad of your finger to handle the lens. You can also use an applicator tool to remove your contacts.
The pad pinch method involves using the middle finger of your non-dominant hand to pull your top eyelid upward, then pulling your lower eyelid downward with the middle finger of your dominant hand. Blink while gently pushing your eyelids towards each other, using your eyelids to squeeze out the contact lens.
The EyeCandys applicator tool kit includes a pair of tweezers and a silicone-tipped applicator. Use the tweezers to take the lens out of the vial or contacts case, then place it right-side up onto the tip of the applicator. Use the applicator to lightly touch the lens to your eye.
If you use daily disposables, simply throw the lenses away. If you use weeklies or monthlies, clean your lenses by wetting them with a multipurpose solution and rubbing them between your fingers for about 20 seconds. Rinse the lenses with fresh solution for 10 seconds, then place them in a clean case and cover them with more solution. Let the lenses disinfect for at least six hours.
