European University of Lefke (EUL) Faculty of Pharmacy Faculty Member Assist. Prof. Dr. İrfan Akartaş gave information about “Contact Lens Usage” and made recommendations for a healthy lens use.

“Contact lenses are materials used to correct vision disorders, change eye color, or treat corneal diseases. Lenses are widely used as an alternative to glasses today due to some optical advantages,” said Akartaş, adding that they are more comfortable because they do not weigh like glasses and there is no risk of falling and breaking. He stated that the condensation that occurs on the glasses, especially in cold weather, does not occur on the lenses, and that lenses are often preferred in some sports and physical activities in order to prevent the glasses from falling and getting damaged. Akartaş also stated that since lenses can be used simultaneously with sunglasses, they are used much more than prescription glasses, especially in summer.

“Today, although there are many types of lenses, one of the most used lens types is soft lenses. For a healthy lens use, people should pay attention to lens care, cleaning and hygiene conditions. Before putting on and taking off the lens, hands should be thoroughly washed with soapy water and dried with a paper towel if possible. During contact lens wear, tear-induced proteins, mucus, lipids and dust accumulation can be observed on the lens. This situation may cause drying of the lens, decrease in oxygen permeability and deterioration of the structure of the lens”, Akartaş stated that in order to prevent these, it is recommended to wash the lens by gently rubbing it with the lens solution with the help of the index finger in the palm when the lens is removed from the eye.

Lens solutions should be used for a maximum of 3 months after opening.

Akartaş, who conveyed information about lens cleaning in his statement, continued as follows; Only lens solution should be used for lens cleaning, never tap water. Lens solutions should be used for a maximum of 3 months after opening to avoid microorganism contamination. In order for the lenses to be completely cleaned, they must be kept in the lens case filled with lens solution for at least 6 hours. The lens solution in the lens case should be changed after each use, and the lens cases should be cleaned by simply washing with the lens solution. Wearing lenses during sleep is not recommended as it may lead to corneal infections and dry eye syndrome.

Finally, Akartaş said, “It is important to attach and remove the lenses correctly. While wearing the lens, the inner surface of the lens should not be turned outward. With the left middle finger, the eyelid is pulled towards the eyebrow. The lens is placed on the right index finger and placed in the eye by pulling the eyelid down with the help of the right middle finger. The lens should fit the eye perfectly. Consult your pharmacist for the correct use of lenses and lens solutions.