Contact lens solution - cleaning and care for eye wear

Today the marketplace is awash with a mind boggling selection of different contact lens solution.

When buying it can be difficult to know where to start. One alternative to having to deal with solutions is to switch to daily disposable lenses; however they aren't suitable for every visual defect and can be more expensive in the long run.

In response to growing market pressure a number of manufacturers have developed lens solutions where cleaning, disinfection and protein removal comes in a single bottle. The notion that lens care is a ‘hassle' no longer holds water, unless of course you feel put out by having to leave your lenses in solution overnight and rinse them in the morning. You don't even have to rub them clean anymore.

The Cleaning Process

Some people feel that they get better results by following the tried and tested method of lens cleaning, rather than using a multi-purpose solution.

• The first step involves cleaning the surface of the lens with wet fingertips (use a brand-name daily cleaner) to remove any impurities.
• The next step is ‘disinfection' which typically means soaking your lenses in a solution of hydrogen peroxide to kill all microorganisms (manufactures' guidelines vary from two hours to overnight soaking).
• A saline solution is then recommended as a ‘rinsing' agent, to prevent any disinfection solution from entering the eye.

Soft contact lenses need to be treated with an enzymatic cleaner at least once a week in order to prevent the build up of protein on the surface of the lens. The process couldn't be simpler; all you have to do is add a tablet to the disinfecting solution before you soak your lenses. Not only will this make your lenses more comfortable to wear, but it will also increase their lifespan. Daily enzymatic cleaners are also sold as a liquid.

Rewetting drops also fall into the category of contact lens solutions, although they do no have a cleansing function. Instead they are designed to lubricate dry eyes and lenses, and make lenses more comfortable to wear.

If you're thinking of trying a different lens solution, or changing to a new care program, you should always consult your eye care professional for advice.

© The Pink Fridge Online Magazine 2008 - Contact Lens Solution

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