How to Put In and Remove Contact Lenses: A Simple Guide

If you are new to contact lenses, putting them in and taking them out may seem difficult at first. With a little practice and the right technique, it can quickly become part of your daily routine.

At Focus Vision Care, we help patients learn how to properly wear, remove, and care for their contact lenses.

How to Put In Contact Lenses

Before handling your contacts, always wash and dry your hands thoroughly.

1. Place the contact lens on the tip of your index finger. Make sure the lens is facing the correct way.

2. Use your middle finger to gently pull down your lower eyelid.

3. Use your other hand to gently lift your upper eyelid.

4. Look straight ahead and carefully place the lens onto your eye.

5. Slowly release your eyelids and blink a few times.

The lens should feel comfortable and your vision should be clear. If the lens feels uncomfortable, remove it and check that it is clean, undamaged, and positioned correctly.

How to Remove Contact Lenses

Removing your contacts is simple once you get comfortable with the process.

1. Wash and dry your hands.

2. Look up and gently pull down your lower eyelid.

3. Use your index finger to slide the lens toward the white part of your eye.

4. Gently pinch the lens between your thumb and index finger and remove it.

5. Clean and store the lens as directed, or dispose of it if it is a daily disposable lens.

Important: Do not sleep in your contact lenses unless your eye care professional has specifically recommended overnight wear.

Need Help With Contact Lenses?

If you are struggling to put in or remove your contacts, you are not alone. Our team at Focus Vision Care can show you the proper technique and help you find contact lenses that fit your eyes comfortably.

Whether you are getting contacts for the first time or need a new contact lens fitting, schedule an eye exam with Focus Vision Care today.

Visit Focus Vision Care at 2260 Victory Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10314

Call us at 718-448-1622

Book online: https://www.focusvisioncare.com/

Your eyes deserve comfortable, personalized care!!

Photochromic Lenses vs. Prescription Sunglasses: Which Is Best for Staten Island Patients?

If you're tired of switching between your glasses and sunglasses, you may be wondering whether photochromic (transition) lenses are a better option.

What Are Photochromic Lenses?

Photochromic lenses are clear indoors and automatically darken when exposed to sunlight. They offer UV protection and are a convenient choice for people who wear prescription glasses every day.

Pros:

• One pair of glasses for indoor and outdoor use

• UV protection

• Convenient for daily wear

Cons:

• Don't darken fully inside most cars

• Take a few moments to adjust when moving between light and dark environments

What About Sunglasses?

Sunglasses are always tinted and provide instant protection from bright sunlight. Polarized sunglasses can also reduce glare while driving or spending time outdoors.

Pros:

• Immediate sun protection

• Great for driving and outdoor activities

• Polarized options reduce glare

Cons:

• Requires a separate pair if you wear prescription glasses

Which Should You Choose?

Photochromic lenses are ideal if you want the convenience of one pair of glasses. If you spend a lot of time driving or outdoors, prescription sunglasses may provide better comfort and glare protection.

At Focus Vision Care in Staten Island, we help patients choose the right lenses for their lifestyle and vision needs. Whether you're considering transition lenses, prescription sunglasses, or both, our team can help you find the best option.

Located at 2260 Victory Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10314

Call us at 718-448-1622

Book online:https://www.focusvisioncare.com/

Blue Light Blocking: Do You Really Need It?

If you spend hours on a computer, tablet, or phone each day, you've probably heard about blue light blocking glasses. But do they really help?

Blue light is a natural part of sunlight and helps keep us alert during the day. The challenge is that we are exposed to screens much longer than ever before, especially in the evening. For some people, this can contribute to eye strain, headaches, and difficulty falling asleep.

Blue light blocking glasses and screen filters are designed to reduce the amount of blue light reaching your eyes. They may help improve comfort during long screen sessions and support better sleep when used at night.

You may benefit from blue light protection if:

• You use digital devices for several hours daily

• You frequently experience eye strain or headaches

• You have trouble falling asleep after screen time

A few simple habits can also help:

• Turn on Night Mode on your devices

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule

• Take regular breaks from screens

• Reduce screen use before bedtime

At Focus Vision Care, we help patients find solutions for digital eye strain and screen-related vision concerns. If you're experiencing tired eyes, headaches, or blurred vision after long hours on screens, schedule an eye exam with our team to discuss whether blue light blocking lenses are right for you.

Located at 2260 Victory Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10314

Call us at 718-448-1622

Book online:https://www.focusvisioncare.com/

Are Anti-Reflective Coatings Worth It?

People often ask whether anti-reflective (AR) coatings are worth the extra cost on eyeglasses. If you experience glare while driving at night, use digital screens for long hours, or want clearer vision, the answer is often yes.

What Is an Anti-Reflective Coating?

An anti-reflective coating is a thin layer applied to eyeglass lenses that reduces glare and reflections. It allows more light to pass through your lenses, helping you see more clearly and comfortably.

Benefits of Anti-Reflective Coatings

Better Night Driving

AR coatings help reduce glare from headlights and streetlights, making nighttime driving more comfortable.

Less Digital Eye Strain

If you spend hours on computers, tablets, or smartphones, AR coatings can reduce screen glare and improve comfort.

Clearer Vision

By reducing reflections, more light reaches your eyes, resulting in sharper vision.

Better Appearance

AR-coated lenses look clearer, allowing others to see your eyes more easily in photos, video calls, and everyday conversations.

Who Should Get Anti-Reflective Coatings?

AR coatings are especially helpful for:

• Frequent drivers

• Computer users

• Students

• Professionals who spend time under bright lighting

• Anyone bothered by glare

Are All AR Coatings the Same?

No. Premium coatings generally provide better glare reduction, easier cleaning, and improved durability compared to basic coatings.

The Bottom Line

Anti-reflective coatings are one of the most popular lens upgrades because they improve comfort, reduce glare, and provide clearer vision throughout the day.

At Focus Vision Care, we help patients choose the right lenses and coatings based on their lifestyle, visual needs, and budget. If you're considering new glasses, our team can help you determine whether an anti-reflective coating is right for you.

Located at 2260 Victory Blvd, Staten Island, NY 10314

Call us at 718-448-1622

Book online:https://www.focusvisioncare.com/

How do I put in and take out my contact lenses?

Putting in and taking out contact lenses may feel tricky at first, but don’t worry! With a little practice, it gets easier.

How to Put In Your Contact Lenses

Step 1: Wash Your Hands
Always start by washing your hands with soap and water. Dry them with a clean towel.

Step 2: Take Out One Lens
Start with the same eye every time (left or right) so you don’t mix them up.

Step 3: Place It on Your Finger
Put the lens on the tip of your index finger. It should look like a bowl with the edges up. If the edges flare out, it’s inside out, flip it over.

Step 4: Hold Your Eyelids
With your other hand, hold your upper eyelid so you don’t blink. Use the middle finger of your lens hand to pull down your lower eyelid.

Step 5: Look Straight or Up
Gently place the lens on your eye. Look in front of you or up, whatever feels easier.

Step 6: Blink Slowly
Let go of your eyelids and blink a few times. The lens should feel comfortable. If not, take it out, rinse it with a solution, and try again.

How to Take Out Your Contact Lenses

Step 1: Wash and Dry Your Hands
Always start clean!

Step 2: Look Up
Use one hand to gently pull down your lower eyelid.

Step 3: Pinch the Lens
Use your thumb and index finger to gently pinch the lens and take it out. Be gentle!

Step 4: Clean or Throw It Away

• If it’s a daily disposable lens: throw it away.

• If it’s reusable: clean it with solution and store it in your lens case.

 Tips to Remember

• Always handle lenses with clean, dry hands.

• Never sleep in your lenses unless your doctor says it’s okay.

• Don’t use water to clean them, only contact lens solution.

• If your lens feels uncomfortable, take it out and rinse it.

Need help?

Visit Focus Vision Care for expert fittings, care tips, and follow-up support.

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

How do I clean my contact lenses properly?

Contact lenses give you clear vision without glasses, but only if you clean them properly. Dirty lenses can lead to infections, irritation, or blurry vision.

Here’s how to keep your eyes safe:

 1. Wash Your Hands First

• Always wash with soap and water

• Dry with a clean, lint-free towel

  Dirty hands = germs in your eyes 

2. Rub and Rinse (Yes, Even “No-Rub” Lenses)

• Place lens in your palm

• Add a few drops of contact lens solution

• Gently rub for 20 seconds

• Rinse with fresh solution

Never use tap water, it’s not safe for your eyes!

3. Use Fresh Solution Every Time

• Don’t reuse old solution

• Use what your eye doctor recommends

• Keep the bottle sealed when not in use

4. Clean Your Lens Case Too

• Empty old solution daily

• Rinse with fresh solution

• Air-dry with caps off

• Replace the case every 1–3 months

5. Follow Your Lens Schedule

• Daily lenses? Toss after one use

• Monthly/Biweekly lenses? Replace on time
  Wearing lenses too long = risk of discomfort or infection

Quick Don’ts

• Don’t sleep in lenses (unless approved)

• Don’t rinse or store lenses in water

• Don’t share your lenses, ever!

Protect Your Vision

Clean lenses = healthy eyes.
Stick to the routine, and your eyes will thank you.

Need help or have lens questions?

We’re here for you. Visit Focus Vision Care for expert contact lens care, fittings, and eye exams.

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

Can Contact Lenses Cause Eye Infections?

Yes, but they’re totally avoidable with good habits!

Why Infections Happen:
Contact lenses sit directly on your eyes, so if they’re not clean or worn properly, they can introduce bacteria. One common infection is keratitis, which can cause redness, pain, blurry vision, and even long-term damage.

Common Mistakes That Lead to Infection:

• Sleeping in contacts (unless your doctor says it’s okay)

• Touching lenses without washing your hands

• Reusing old solution

• Wearing lenses too long

• Swimming or showering in contacts

Warning Signs to Watch For:

• Red, painful eyes

• Blurry or hazy vision

• Light sensitivity

• Watery or sticky discharge

Take your lenses out immediately and call your eye doctor if you notice any of these.

How to Prevent Infection:

• Always wash your hands first

• Use fresh solution every time

• Follow your replacement schedule

• Never rinse with tap water

• Don’t sleep in them unless approved

Contacts are safe, when used the right way.

Need help with contact lens care, fitting, or eye health? We’re here to help!

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