Caleb Foster
Putting on and removing contact lenses with long nails can be challenging and may pose several eye risks. However, it is not an impossible task and can be done with practice and patience. It is important to prioritise eye safety and hygiene, especially since bacteria can live under long nails. To avoid damaging your eyes or lenses, it is recommended to use the fleshy part of your fingers instead of your nails when handling contact lenses. Consider using tools such as lens tweezers or suction cup inserters to reduce direct contact with your eyes and lenses. Additionally, maintaining proper hand and nail hygiene, as well as regularly replacing your lens case, are crucial steps to ensure safe contact lens usage with long nails.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Nail shape | Opt for a rounded shape, like nibbed almond or oval. Matte polish is also better as it offers more control over the lenses. |
| Nail length | If you're new to acrylic nails, work your way up in length gradually. |
| Hand and nail hygiene | Wash your hands and nails before handling contact lenses. Use a soft nail brush to brush away any residue or dirt from beneath your nails. |
| Contact lens case hygiene | Wash your contact lens case with contact lens solution every few days or weeks. Replace your lens case every three months. |
| Handling contact lenses | Avoid touching or handling contact lenses with your nails directly. Use the fleshy part of your fingers to handle the lenses. |
| Tools | Use a contact lens tool like lens tweezers or a suction cup inserter to handle the lenses without touching them with your nails. |
| Removing contact lenses | Tap the top of the contact lens with your finger and slide it to the white of your eye. From there, roll it over your bottom eyelid. |
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What You'll Learn
Nail shape and length
If you have long nails, wearing contact lenses can be challenging. However, with the right nail shape and length, you can make the process easier and safer. Here are some tips to consider:
Nail Shape:
- Opt for a rounded nail shape: Almond or oval-shaped nails are recommended as they are less likely to snag or catch on the contact lens. These shapes are also less likely to poke or scratch your eyes compared to sharp and pointy stiletto nails.
- Matte polish: Some people find that a matte nail polish finish provides better control over the lenses.
Nail Length:
- Gradually increase length: If you are new to wearing contacts with long nails, it is advisable to start with shorter nails and gradually increase the length. This allows you to get used to handling the lenses with your nails and reduces the risk of accidents.
- Keep nails maintained: Long nails can harbour bacteria, so it is important to maintain proper nail hygiene. Wash your hands and nails before handling contact lenses, and use a soft nail brush to clean underneath your nails regularly.
- Avoid direct contact: Whenever possible, avoid touching the contact lenses directly with your nails. Use the fleshy part of your fingertips to handle the lenses, as this provides more control and reduces the risk of scratching the lenses or your eyes.
By considering these factors, you can find a balance between having long nails and safely wearing contact lenses. It may take some practice and extra care, but it is possible to have the best of both worlds.
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Hand and nail hygiene
Handwashing Techniques
It is important to wash your hands before handling contact lenses. Use soap and running water, as alcohol-based rubs or wipes can damage the lenses and irritate your eyes. Ensure you wash your hands thoroughly, including the fingertips, as these are most likely to come into contact with the lenses. Avoid scented or oily soaps, as they can leave a residue on your hands and nails. Make sure to dry your hands properly after washing to prevent any water droplets from transferring to the lenses.
Nail Care
Keep your nails short and well-maintained. Longer nails, especially those that are sharp or pointy, can make it difficult to handle contact lenses and may increase the risk of scratching your lenses or eyes. If you have long nails, consider filing them into a rounded shape, such as an almond or oval shape, to minimize the risk of snagging or scratching. Additionally, use a soft nail brush to clean underneath your nails, as bacteria can accumulate in this area. Avoid using nail products with strong chemicals, such as nail glue, primers, and spray activators, as these can irritate your eyes if you are not careful.
Contact Lens Handling
When handling contact lenses, try to use the fleshy part of your fingertips instead of your nails. This will help prevent scratches and tears on the lenses. If you have long nails, you may find it helpful to use a contact lens tool, such as lens tweezers or a suction cup inserter, to insert and remove the lenses without touching them with your nails. Always handle your lenses gently and inspect them for any damage before and after each use.
Lens Case Hygiene
It is important to keep your contact lens case clean and disinfected. Wash your hands before handling the case and open it before washing your hands to avoid re-contamination. Replace the solution in the case with fresh contact lens solution regularly, and clean the case with the solution every few days or weeks. Consider replacing your lens case every three months to maintain proper hygiene.
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Using a contact lens tool
Contact lens tools are a great way to avoid touching your contact lenses directly with your fingers, especially if you have long nails. These tools are usually small and easy to carry, fitting easily into your makeup bag.
There are a few different types of contact lens tools that you can use. One type is a pair of tweezers with soft tips, which can be made of silicone. These tweezers are designed to gently lift the contact lens out of its case and onto your eye without you having to touch the lens directly. The soft tips help to protect your lenses from damage. When using tweezers, it is important to be gentle and take your time, as it may take some practice to master the technique.
Another type of contact lens tool is a suction cup inserter. This is a small silicone instrument that "sucks" onto the lens, allowing you to stick it to your eye safely and easily. The suction cup design ensures that you don't have to get too close to your eye with your long nails.
Some contact lens tools come with additional features, such as a small spoon for removing the lens from its case, or a soft silicone scoop for placing the lens onto your eye. It is also important to keep your contact lens tools clean by rinsing them with lens solution before use.
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The rolling method
Step 1: Start by looking directly into a mirror. Keep your eye wide open, but if you have any difficulty, use one hand to gently hold your eyelid to prevent blinking.
Step 2: Using your dry fingertip, place the soft pad of your finger, not your nail, against the contact lens. Gently slide the lens towards the outer edge of your eye, towards your ear, not your nose.
Step 3: After nudging the lens to the side, use the pad of your finger on the lens' surface once more. The lens should now feel a bit tackier and easier to move.
Step 4: Gently guide the lens with your fingertip towards the outer edge of your eye again. This time, use a bit of extra pressure, and the lens should roll outward for easy removal.
Step 5: Continue to roll the lens over your bottom eyelid. You can add a little extra pressure, and if done correctly, the lens will roll out over the eyelid and out of your eye.
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Storing your lenses
Storing your contact lenses properly is essential for maintaining good eye health. Here are some detailed instructions for storing your lenses:
Wash Your Hands
Before handling your contact lenses, always wash your hands with soap and water to remove dirt and bacteria. Avoid scented or oily soaps that can leave a residue. Also, remember to clean your nails using a soft nail brush to remove any dirt or residue trapped beneath them. Dry your hands with a clean, lint-free towel to prevent lint transfer to your lenses or eyes.
Prepare the Contact Lens Case
Fill the clean contact lens case with fresh contact lens solution. Ensure the solution is not expired, and do not simply top up an old solution. Some solutions are only suitable for 24 hours, while multipurpose solutions allow for longer storage. It is recommended to replace the lens case every three months.
Clean the Lenses
Take out one lens at a time and place it in the palm of your hand. Add a few drops of fresh contact lens solution and gently rub the lens with the pad of your finger to remove any deposits or debris. Focus on handling the lens with your fingertips, avoiding direct contact with your nails to prevent scratching the lenses.
Store the Lenses
Place the cleaned lenses in the prepared lens case filled with fresh solution. Ensure the case is tightly closed for safe storage. If you only wear your contacts occasionally, you can store them for up to one month. For monthly disposable lenses, disinfect them with fresh solution before reuse if they have been stored for 30 days or less. Discard and replace the lenses if they have been stored for longer than one month.
Regularly Replace the Lens Case
In addition to storing your lenses properly, remember to replace your lens case regularly. Cleaning and replacing your lens case is as crucial as maintaining fresh contact lens solution. This helps prevent bacterial growth and reduces the risk of eye infections.
By following these steps for storing your contact lenses, you can help ensure their longevity, maintain eye health, and enjoy a comfortable lens-wearing experience.
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Frequently asked questions
It is important to be extremely careful when handling contact lenses with long nails. Try to use the fleshy part of your fingers instead of your nails to handle the lenses. You can also use tools such as lens tweezers or a suction cup inserter to avoid touching the lenses directly.
Opt for a rounded nail shape, such as an oval or almond shape, as they are less likely to snag or scratch your lenses. Matte polish is also preferred as it gives you better control over the lenses.
Removing contact lenses with long nails can be tricky. Make sure to wash your hands and nails thoroughly before removing your lenses. Use the flat part of your index finger and thumb to softly pinch the lens and pull it away from your eye.
If you scratch your eye, carefully clean it and seek medical attention if necessary. Avoid using over-the-counter eye drops, as they may irritate a scratched eye. It is recommended to wear eyeglasses instead of contact lenses while your eye heals.
