Contact Lenses: Top 10 Myths and Facts

Over 1 in 5 adults wear contact lenses, but there are still many myths about these life-changing optical devices. 

Despite the fact that contact lenses have helped millions of individuals correct their vision problems, there are many misconceptions about them. These myths are stopping some people from choosing contact lenses for personal use.

We wanted to debunk some common contact lens myths and provide you with the facts.

1. Myth: Contact lenses aren’t for all ages

Fact: Contact lenses can be worn by anyone over the age of 8.

In the end, it comes down to a child’s motivation to wear lenses, responsibility, and maturity. For older people, contact lenses, rather than reading glasses, may be preferred.

2. Myth: Contact lenses can get lost behind your eye

Fact: It’s physically impossible for a contact lens to get lost behind your eye. 

The lens is kept from moving behind your eye by a thin membrane that covers the outside part of your eye and connects to your eyelids.

The lens may slip out of place, but a few forceful blinks will usually reposition it or cause it to fall out, allowing you to place it in its proper location.

3. Myth: Contact lenses can get stuck on the eye

Fact: Contact lenses should not stick to your eye if you follow your eye doctor’s instructions for proper wear, care, and removal. 

Soft contact lenses can temporarily stick to your eye if they dry out or if you fall asleep with them in your eyes. Usually a few drops of contact lens solution will loosen them, allowing you to remove them.

4. Myth: Contact lenses can pop out of the eye

Fact: Contact lenses that are properly fitted should never pop out or fall out of your eye. 

The only way a contact lens can move is if it relocates to another part of your eye. Blinking a few times or closing your eyelid and lightly pressing on it should prompt the lens to return to its original position.

5. Myth: Contact lenses are uncomfortable

Fact: Modern contact lenses are designed to make them extremely comfortable to use and wear comfortably all day. 

When you first put lenses on, they may feel strange, but you will quickly get used to them.

If another issue, like dry eye, makes wearing lenses uncomfortable, there are ways to hydrate your eyes so that your lenses don’t irritate them.

In addition, if your lenses aren’t properly fitted, they can be uncomfortable, which is why you should always go to an eye doctor for a contact lens fitting.