10 Common Mistakes to Avoid with Viskon Contact Lenses

Colored contact lenses are a fantastic way to enhance your look, and Viskon offers a wide range of shades to suit every style. However, wearing contact lenses comes with responsibility. Many users unknowingly make mistakes that can lead to discomfort, infections, or even long-term eye damage. Whether you're new to Viskon or a seasoned wearer, it's crucial to know the dos and don'ts of lens care.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the 10 most common mistakes people make with Viskon contact lenses and how to avoid them. By following these tips, you'll enjoy beautiful, comfortable eyes without compromising your health. Let's dive in!

1. Sleeping in Your Contact Lenses

One of the most common mistakes is sleeping with your contact lenses on. Even if your lenses are labeled as 'extended wear,' it's generally safer to remove them before bed. Sleeping in lenses reduces oxygen flow to your cornea, increasing the risk of infections and corneal ulcers. Viskon daily lenses, like the Viskon 1-Day Dolce Brown, are designed for single-day use and should never be worn overnight.

Always make it a habit to remove your lenses before sleeping, even for a nap. If you accidentally fall asleep with them, don't panic. Remove them as soon as you wake up and give your eyes a break. If you experience redness, pain, or blurred vision, consult your eye care professional immediately.

• Never sleep in daily or reusable lenses unless prescribed by your eye doctor.
• Keep a contact lens case and solution by your bedside as a reminder.

2. Using Tap Water to Clean or Store Lenses

Water is not sterile, and using tap water to rinse or store your contact lenses can introduce harmful microorganisms to your eyes. This can lead to serious infections like Acanthamoeba keratitis, which is difficult to treat. Always use fresh contact lens solution to clean and store your lenses.

When you're out and about, avoid the temptation to rinse your lenses with bottled water. Instead, carry a small bottle of lens solution with you. If you ever run out, it's better to dispose of the lenses and use a fresh pair from your stash, such as the Viskon 1-Day Addict Brown, than to risk contamination.

• Only use sterile contact lens solution for cleaning and storage.
• Never use saline solution as a disinfectant – it's not a cleanser.

3. Reusing or 'Topping Up' Solution

Some people try to save money by reusing the same contact lens solution or 'topping up' the solution in the lens case. This is a big no-no. Reusing solution dilutes its disinfecting power and can leave debris and bacteria on your lenses. Always use fresh solution each time you store your lenses.

After wearing your Viskon lenses, empty the case, rinse it with solution, and let it air dry. Then add fresh solution and store your lenses. This simple habit can significantly reduce the risk of eye infections and keep your lenses comfortable throughout their lifespan.

• Always discard used solution and replace with fresh solution.
• Clean your lens case regularly and replace it every three months.

4. Ignoring Expiration Dates

Contact lenses have an expiration date for a reason. Over time, the materials can degrade, and the lens may not perform as intended. Using expired lenses can cause discomfort, blurred vision, and increased risk of infection. Always check the expiration date on the packaging before use.

If you have a pair of Viskon lenses that you've had for a while, check the expiration date. For daily disposables like the Viskon 1-Day Iridescent Gray, it's especially important to use them before the expiry date. Never use lenses that have been stored past their expiration, even if they look fine.

• Check the expiration date on every new box of lenses.
• Discard lenses that have been opened for longer than the recommended period.

5. Wearing Lenses While Swimming or Showering

Water – whether in a pool, hot tub, or shower – contains microbes that can adhere to your contact lenses and cause infections. Swimming with lenses can also lead to them being dislodged or lost. It's best to remove your lenses before any water activity.

If you must wear lenses for swimming, use waterproof goggles and avoid opening your eyes underwater. After swimming, remove and disinfect your lenses immediately. However, the safest option is to switch to prescription goggles or simply go without lenses. Your eye health is more important than a temporary look.

• Remove lenses before swimming, showering, or using a hot tub.
• If you forget, remove and clean them as soon as possible.

6. Not Washing Your Hands Before Handling Lenses

Your hands carry dirt, oils, and bacteria that can transfer to your lenses and then to your eyes. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, then dry them with a lint-free towel before touching your lenses. This is the simplest yet most effective way to prevent infections.

Make it a routine: wash, rinse, dry, then handle. Avoid using moisturizing soaps that can leave a film on your lenses. For extra safety, you can use a clean tissue to handle your lenses if you're in a pinch.

• Wash hands with mild soap and dry with a lint-free towel.
• Avoid touching your lenses with long nails or jewelry.

7. Wearing Lenses Longer Than Recommended

Every lens has a recommended wearing schedule. Daily lenses are meant to be worn once and discarded, while reusable lenses have a specific lifespan. Wearing lenses beyond their recommended time can cause protein buildup, reduced oxygen flow, and increased risk of eye infections.

If you wear daily disposables like the Viskon 1-Day Dolce Brown or Viskon 1-Day Addict Brown, never try to stretch them to two days. For reusable lenses, follow the replacement schedule (e.g., monthly or bi-weekly) and replace them as directed. Your eyes will thank you.

• Follow the wearing schedule for your specific lens type.
• Set a reminder to replace your lenses on time.

8. Using Saliva or Water to Wet Lenses

When lenses feel dry, some people resort to wetting them with saliva or water. This is extremely dangerous. Saliva contains bacteria, and water is not sterile. Both can lead to severe eye infections. Instead, use rewetting drops specifically designed for contact lenses.

If your Viskon lenses feel dry, apply a few drops of contact lens rewetting solution. Avoid using eye drops that are not approved for contact lens use, as they can cause buildup. Always carry a small bottle of rewetting drops in your bag for emergencies.

• Use only contact lens-safe rewetting drops.
• Never put saliva or water on your lenses.

9. Not Cleaning Your Lens Case Properly

Your lens case can become a breeding ground for bacteria if not cleaned regularly. Rinse it with fresh solution (not water) after each use, and let it air dry with the caps off. Replace your lens case every three months to ensure optimal hygiene.

If you use a Viskon lens case, follow the same cleaning routine. Avoid storing your case in damp environments like the bathroom. Keep it in a clean, dry place. A clean case is just as important as clean lenses.

• Rinse and air-dry your lens case daily.
• Replace your case every three months.

10. Rubbing Your Eyes While Wearing Lenses

Rubbing your eyes can dislodge your lenses, scratch your cornea, or even cause the lens to fold or tear. It can also introduce dirt and bacteria into your eyes. If your eyes feel itchy or irritated, remove the lenses and clean them, or give your eyes a break.

If you find yourself constantly rubbing your eyes, it might be a sign that your lenses are not fitting well or that you need a different prescription. Consult your eye care professional for a check-up. Consider trying a different Viskon shade that suits your eye shape better, but always prioritize comfort.

• Avoid rubbing your eyes; use rewetting drops if needed.
• If irritation persists, remove lenses and consult an eye doctor.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help you enjoy your Viskon colored contact lenses safely and comfortably. Remember, your eye health is priceless. If you're looking for a new pair of Viskon lenses, explore the Viskon 1-Day Dolce Brown for a natural, everyday look that's both stylish and safe. Always follow the care instructions and consult your eye care professional if you have any concerns.