Questions About Contact Lens Solution? Read This!

If you wear contacts, or are thinking of getting them, then you need contact lens solution. There are many different types of solutions on the market today. The kind of solution you will need depends on the type of contacts that you have. You should consult with your eye care professional before choosing a lens solution. Here are some of the basic types of lens solutions:

All-in-One: All-in-one solutions, also known as multipurpose solutions, are popular these days. These types of solutions work for storing, cleaning and disinfection. Many of them are designated as no-rub, which means you won't need to rub your lenses to remove dirt and germs like was required in the past.

Hydrogen Peroxide Solution: Hydrogen peroxide solutions are a bit less popular than the multipurpose types. Some types of hydrogen peroxide lens cleaners are one-step, others are two-step. For two-step solutions, the peroxide must be neutralized before the lenses are worn. Often, you'll find that these types of cleaners come with what's known as a catalyzing disk which must be soaked with the lenses for an extended period of time before they can be safely worn.

Saline Solution: Saline is used to rinse the lenses before putting them in. However, saline lens cleaners cannot disinfect the lenses on their own. A separate cleaner will be required, as described below.

Daily Cleaner: Daily cleaner is used in conjunction with saline solution to disinfect the lenses. To use a daily cleaner, apply a few drops and rub with your finger. Many contact lens wearers have switched from saline and daily cleaner to the all-in-one solutions.

Enzymatic Solution: This type of cleaner is used to remove protein deposits from lenses and is most often used for soft lenses that are not disposable. Usually, enzymatic cleaners come in tablet form which dissolve in saline, in which the lenses are soaked for an extended period of time.

If you experience redness, burning or discomfort, it could be an adverse reaction to the type of contact lens solution you are using. Always see your eye doctor immediately if problems like these occur. It's important to keep your lens case clean so that the sterile solution does not become contaminated. Most eye care professionals may recommend rinsing the lens case in hot water and allowing it to air dry when lenses are not being stored.

Copyright 2006 Jim Sterling - All Rights Reserved

Technorati Tags: contact lenses, Questions About Contact Lens Solution? Read This!, Contact Lens Solution