Sterile normal saline solution is isotonic. It contains no preservatives, and has no other chemical additives. Rinsing contact lenses with sterile normal saline solution prior to wearing helps wash away chemical agents found in multi-purpose contact lens solution.
Multi-purpose contact lens solution may contain various chemical additives such as cleaning agents, surfactants, chelating agents, buffers, biocides, disinfectants, and preservatives(1). Rinsing contact lens with multi-purpose contact lens solution may cause minor eye irritation or discomfort when wearing contact lenses.
Direction for Contact Lens Care
- Wash your hands thoroughly. Remove contact lenses from lens storage case. Rinse contact lenses with sterile normal saline solution prior to wearing.
- Wear your contact lenses.
- You can wear contact lenses with comfort.
Do’s and Don’ts of Contact Lens(2)
Do’s
- Wash your hands thoroughly before handling contact lenses.
- Clean your lenses regularly, and follow the recommended contact lens replacement schedule.
- Select the right contact lens solution to clean and store your lenses.
- Always use fresh contact lens solution to clean, rinse and store your lenses.
- Clean and dry your lens storage case after each use.
- Remove contact lenses before taking a shower, swimming, or sleeping
Don’ts
- Wear your contact lens longer than 8 hours a day
- Use tap water or saliva to clean or moisten your lenses
- Transfer contact lens solution from its original container to a travel-size bottle
- Use contact lens solution for eye drops
- Wear contact lens if you are experiencing redness of the eye or eye discomfort, or when you are using eye drop or eye ointment
- Share contact lenses with others
References:
- Gromacki SJ, Ward MA. “Understanding contemporary contact lens care products.” Contact Lens Spectrum; 2013; 28:20-5.
- Contact Lenses: Do’s and don’ts. American Optometric Association, 26 Feb. 2012 http://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/contact-lenses/dos-and-donts?sso=y
