How to Tell if Your Viskon Contact Lenses Are Inside Out

Putting in a contact lens only to feel a sharp sting or blurry vision is a classic annoyance. Often, the culprit is a simple mistake: the lens is inside out. When a Viskon contact lens is inverted, it won't sit properly on your eye, causing discomfort, irritation, and poor vision. Fortunately, checking for this issue takes just a few seconds once you know what to look for.

In this guide, we'll walk you through the easiest ways to tell if your Viskon contact lenses are inside out, how to fix them, and share tips to make the process smoother. Whether you're a seasoned wearer or new to colored contacts, mastering this skill will save you from frustrating moments.

Why Does It Matter if a Contact Lens Is Inside Out?

An inside-out contact lens doesn't match the natural curve of your eye. Instead of hugging your cornea, the edges may flip up or sit unevenly, leading to a range of problems. You might feel a foreign body sensation, experience excessive tearing, or notice that the lens moves too much when you blink. In some cases, the lens may even pop out.

For colored lenses like the Viskon Glitz Star Silver or Viskon Morandi Brown, an inside-out lens can also affect the look. The color might appear patchy or the lens may not cover the iris evenly, ruining the aesthetic you're going for. Learning to spot the difference ensures both comfort and style.

• Discomfort and irritation are the most common signs.
• Blurry or fluctuating vision can occur because the lens isn't aligned.
• The lens may slide around or even fall out unexpectedly.

The Classic Test: The Taco Shape

The most reliable way to check if your Viskon lens is inside out is the 'taco test.' Place the lens on your fingertip, making sure it's clean and dry. Gently squeeze the edges together as if you're folding a taco. If the edges meet and form a neat U-shape with the top edges pointing upward, the lens is in the correct orientation. If the edges flare outward, looking more like a shallow bowl with the top edge pointing down, it's inside out.

This test works because contact lenses are designed with a specific curvature. When correctly oriented, they naturally fold into a 'taco' shape. When inverted, the edges turn outward. Practice this on a clean lens before inserting it, and you'll quickly get the hang of it.

• Hold the lens on your index finger, not your thumb, for better control.
• Do the test over a clean surface in case you drop the lens.
• If you're unsure, try the test again—it's better to be safe.

Other Quick Checks: Edge and Color Inspection

Another visual cue is the shape of the lens edge. When you hold the lens at eye level and look at it from the side, a correctly oriented lens has a smooth, bowl-like curve with a slightly defined rim. An inside-out lens often looks flatter at the edge, with a rim that appears more pronounced or even slightly rolled outward.

For colored contacts, you can also inspect the tint. If the lens is inside out, the color might look uneven or the pattern may appear distorted. For example, a Viskon Glitz Star Gold lens with its sparkle effect might look less uniform when inverted. However, this method is less reliable than the taco test, so use it as a secondary check.

• Compare the lens to a picture of the correct orientation if you're a beginner.
• Make sure your hands are dry, as moisture can make the lens stick to your finger.
• If the lens feels sticky or won't hold its shape, it might be inside out.

How to Fix an Inside-Out Lens

If you discover your Viskon lens is inside out, don't panic. Simply place it back in your palm and add a few drops of contact lens solution. Gently push on the edges with your fingertip to flip it the right way. You can also use a clean, dry finger to roll the lens over. Once it's corrected, do the taco test again to confirm.

If the lens is a daily disposable like the Viskon 1-Day Chiffon Gray, you might prefer to start fresh with a new lens to avoid any risk of contamination. However, if you're using a reusable lens, make sure to rinse it thoroughly with solution before reinserting. Never use water or saliva, as these can introduce harmful bacteria.

• Always wash your hands before handling lenses.
• Use fresh contact lens solution to rinse the lens after flipping it.
• If the lens doesn't flip easily, it might be damaged—replace it.

Preventing Inside-Out Lenses in the Future

To minimize the chance of inserting an inside-out lens, develop a consistent routine. Always place the lens on the same fingertip and check its orientation before it touches your eye. Some wearers find it helpful to look down at the lens while doing the taco test, as this gives a clearer view of the edge shape.

Additionally, store your lenses properly in their case with fresh solution. A well-maintained lens is less likely to warp or stick to itself, which can sometimes cause orientation confusion. If you're new to wearing contacts, practice inserting and removing them with a friend or in front of a mirror until you're confident.

• Use a mirror to see the lens clearly during insertion.
• Keep your lens case clean and replace it every three months.
• If you're in a hurry, take an extra second to do the taco test—it's worth it.

When to Seek Help

If you've inserted a lens that you believe is correctly oriented but it still feels uncomfortable, remove it and inspect it again. Sometimes, a lens can be damaged or have a manufacturing defect. If you experience persistent redness, pain, or vision changes, remove the lens and consult an eye care professional.

Remember, your comfort and eye health are the top priority. If you're unsure about any aspect of lens care, don't hesitate to reach out to your optometrist or the Viskon customer support team. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific lenses.

• Never sleep in lenses that aren't approved for overnight wear.
• Replace lenses according to the schedule (daily, bi-weekly, monthly).
• If you have dry eyes, use rewetting drops designed for contact lenses.

Mastering the art of checking your Viskon contact lenses for inside-out orientation is a small skill that makes a big difference in comfort and confidence. With the taco test and a few visual cues, you'll be able to insert your lenses flawlessly every time. If you're looking for a new pair of colored contacts to practice with, consider exploring the Viskon 1-Day Chiffon Gray for a subtle, natural look, or the Viskon Glitz Star Silver for a touch of sparkle. Happy wearing!