Are Contact Lenses Safe to Wear?

Contact lenses are a great way to see clearly without wearing glasses. They’re popular because it is easy to use, and for most people it is totally safe!

But are they always safe to wear?

Yes, Contact Lenses Are Safe If You Use Them Right!

Millions of people wear contact lenses every day with no problems. They’re made from soft, breathable materials and approved by eye health experts.

When used correctly, contact lenses are:

  • Safe

  • Comfortable

  • Great for clear vision

When Contact Lenses Can Be Unsafe

Contact lenses can cause problems if you don’t take care of them properly. Here are some things that make them risky:

  • Sleeping in lenses that aren’t made for overnight use

  • Not cleaning your lenses or case

  • Touching lenses with dirty hands

  • Using water or saliva to clean them (never do this!)

  • Wearing them too long or past the expiration date

Can You Get an Eye Infection?

Yes, but it’s not common if you keep your lenses clean.

Signs of an eye infection include:

  • Red or painful eyes

  • Blurry vision

  • Lots of tearing

  • Sensitivity to light

If anything feels wrong, take your lenses out and see your eye doctor.

Tips for Safe Contact Lens Use

Here’s how to keep your eyes safe:

  1. Wash your hands before touching your lenses

  2. Use only contact lens solution(do not use water)

  3. Follow your wearing schedule (daily, weekly, etc.)

  4. Clean your lens case and replace it every few months

  5. Never sleep in contacts unless your doctor says it’s okay

  6. Get regular eye checkups

When Not to Wear Contacts

Take a break from contacts if you:

  • Have red, sore, or dry eyes

  • Are sick or have an eye infection

  • Just had eye surgery

  • Are swimming or in a hot tub (unless you wear swim goggles)

Need Help Choosing the Right Lenses?

At Focus Vision Care, we specialize in helping patients find the best contact lenses for their eyes and lifestyle. Whether you’re new to contacts or just need an update, we’re here to support your vision health every step of the way.

Located at 2260 Victory Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10314
Call us at 718 448 1622
Book online at https://www.focusvisioncare.com/

How Long Can I Wear My Contact Lenses Each Day?

Contact lenses are a great alternative to glasses, but how long can you safely wear them each day? It depends on your lens type, eye health, and how well you care for them. 

Here’s a quick guide to help you out:

1. Know Your Lens Type

  • Daily disposables: Wear up to 12–14 hours, then throw them away.

  • Bi-weekly/Monthly lenses: Can be worn 12–16 hours, but must be cleaned and stored nightly.

  • Extended wear lenses: Some are safe for overnight use (up to 7–30 days) with your doctor’s approval.

Tip: Not all eyes tolerate overnight wear, always check with your optometrist.

2. General Rule: 8–16 Hours a Day

Most people can safely wear contacts for 8 to 16 hours. If you're new to contacts, start with shorter wear times and increase slowly.

Listen to your eyes, if they feel dry or irritated, take your lenses out.

3. Things That Can Shorten Wear Time

  • Dry eyes

  • Allergies

  • Too much screen time

  • Poor air quality (smoke, dust, AC)

4. Signs You’ve Worn Them Too Long

Remove your contacts if you notice:

  • Redness

  • Burning

  • Blurry vision

  • Light sensitivity

  • A gritty feeling

5. Tips for Healthy Wear

  • Follow your eye doctor’s schedule.

  • Don’t sleep in lenses unless approved.

  • Replace lenses as directed.

  • Clean with fresh solution only (never water).

  • Give your eyes a break, wear glasses now and then.

Get Expert Advice from Focus Vision Care

Not sure how long you should wear your contacts? We can help!

At Focus Vision Care, we offer:

  • Custom contact lens fittings

  • Eye exams to check for dryness or irritation

  • Expert advice on what lenses are best for you

Located at 2260 Victory Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10314
Call us at 718 448 1622
Book online at https://www.focusvisioncare.com/

Your eyes are too important to risk, treat them with the care they deserve.


How Do Contact Lenses Work?

Contact lenses are a popular alternative to glasses, but have you ever wondered how they actually work?

Here’s a simple breakdown:

The Science Behind Contact Lenses

Contact lenses sit directly on the surface of your eye (your cornea). Just like glasses, they help focus light correctly onto your retina, so you see clearly.

Depending on your vision needs, lenses are shaped differently to correct:

  • Nearsightedness (myopia) – helps you see far away

  • Farsightedness (hyperopia) – helps you see up close

  • Astigmatism – uses special toric lenses to correct uneven focus

  • Presbyopia – uses multifocal lenses for both near and far vision

Because they move with your eyes, contacts give a more natural field of vision than glasses, and no frames in your way!

Want to Try Contact Lenses?

Our friendly team at Focus Vision Care can help you find the perfect lenses for your eyes and lifestyle.

We offer:

Professional eye exams
Custom lens fittings
Ongoing care and support

Located at 2260 Victory Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10314
Call us at 718 448 1622
Book online at https://www.focusvisioncare.com/

Clear Vision, No Glasses. Let’s Make it Happen!