Guide for new contact lens wearers

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If you are thinking about wearing contact lenses for the first time, you are not alone. Every year, thousands of people across the UK choose to move away from their pair of glasses and explore the benefits of contact lenses. Whether you are interested in daily disposable lenses, two weekly contact lenses or monthly contact lenses, understanding the basics will make your transition easier and more comfortable.

This guide is here to support first-time contact lens wearers. You will learn how to choose the right lenses, use them properly and care for your eye health every step of the way.

Step one: visit an eye care professional

Before you buy contact lenses online, book a visit with your optician or optometrist. An eye exam will check your vision, eye health and suitability for contact lens wear. Your eye care professional will also perform a lens fitting, which ensures your lenses match the size and shape of your eyes for long-term comfort.

You will also discuss your lifestyle and preferences. Some people prefer soft contact lenses for daily wear, while others may benefit from extended wear or multifocal contact lenses that correct astigmatism. Daily disposable lenses are especially popular with beginners because they are convenient and low maintenance.

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Step two: learn how to insert and remove your lenses

Learning how to put contacts in can feel daunting at first. Always wash and dry your hands using a lint-free towel before handling your lenses. Place the lens on the tip of your index finger. With your middle finger, gently pull down your lower lid, then use your other hand to lift your upper eyelid. Look straight ahead and place the lens directly on your eye. Blink gently to help it settle.

To remove contact lenses, look slightly upward, pull down your lower lid with your middle finger and use your thumb and index finger to pinch the lens out gently. Practice this technique daily. With time, it becomes part of your routine.

Step three: maintain excellent hygiene and lens care

Good hygiene is essential for healthy contact lens wear. If you use reusable contact lenses, be sure to clean them every time you remove them. Use a fresh solution and store them in a clean contact lens case. Never use tap water to rinse or store your lenses.

A high-quality contact lens solution is key to removing debris, bacteria and protein buildup. Avoid topping up old solution and replace your lens case regularly to avoid potential eye infections. For first-time users, daily disposable lenses are a simple option, as they eliminate the need for nightly cleaning.

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Common beginner mistakes to avoid 

Mistakes are common for beginners, but easy to avoid. Here are a few to watch out for:

  • Wearing lenses too long: Stick to the recommended wearing time to avoid discomfort or dryness.

  • Skipping proper hand washing: Always wash and dry your hands before handling your lenses.

  • Topping up old solution: Always use fresh contact lens solution every time you store your lenses.

  • Ignoring discomfort: If your lenses feel uncomfortable or your vision is blurry, take them out and consult your optician.


Avoiding these mistakes can help you enjoy clear, comfortable vision every day.

Step four: watch for signs of dryness or irritation

New contact lens wearers sometimes experience dry eyes, discomfort or blurry vision. This can result from long wearing time, exposure to dry environments or not following a proper cleaning routine. Use eye drops approved for contact lenses if your eyes feel dry, but always consult an eye care professional if discomfort persists. everclear Eye Drops are bestsellers amongst our customers. You can also discover our range of best eye drops for dry eyes.

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Tips to keep your eyes hydrated: 

Symptoms such as pain, discharge, sensitivity to light or red eyes may signal a more serious problem. Remove contact lenses and seek advice from your optician or eye doctor immediately. 

Dryness can affect many new lens wearers, especially if you spend long hours at a screen or in air-conditioned environments. Try these simple tips to stay comfortable: 

  • Use a blink reminder: Set regular alerts to blink more often while using a screen. 

  • Take screen breaks: Follow the 20-20-20 rule every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. 

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to support overall eye health. 

  • Use rewetting drops: Choose eye drops that are safe for contact lens wearers to refresh your eyes on the go. 

  • Staying ahead of dryness helps keep your vision clear and your lenses feeling fresh. 

Step five: build a reliable routine

Wearing contact lenses safely is about consistency. Stick to your optician’s guidance on wearing time and replacement schedules. Never wear lenses longer than directed and avoid continuous wear unless your lenses are specifically approved for it. 

Always have a backup pair of glasses with you. Clean your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes and use a fresh solution every time. Your eye health depends on these small habits. 

Keep up with regular follow-up appointments to ensure your vision and lenses are still working well for you. If your lifestyle changes or your prescription shifts, your optometrist can update your lens recommendation. 

Step six: enjoy the benefits of buying contact lenses online

Once you are confident with your lenses and prescription, it is easy to order contact lenses online. Many first-time users appreciate the convenience of managing their eye care needs from home. You can order contact lenses quickly and securely from trusted retailers offering next-day delivery and helpful customer support.

At Vision Direct, you can buy contact lenses online from top brands at great prices. Whether you are searching for online contact lenses for daily use or want to order contact lenses for monthly wear, you will find plenty of options. We stock everything from daily disposables to cleaning solutions and eye drops, helping you care for your eyes every step of the way. We also offer a FREE trial of our bestselling dailies everclear ELITE contact lenses. Just add two boxes with your prescription to the basket and add code TRYELITE to the promo code field.

Buying contact lenses online in the UK is a simple and flexible way to stay on top of your eye care needs. You can choose your new pair, check your replacement schedule and reorder with ease. If you’re still a little unsure, you can check out our glowing Trustpilot customer reviews for peace of mind.

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Order cheap contact lenses with confidence

From first-time wear to follow-up care, we are here to help. Vision Direct is your go-to destination for contact lenses UK customers trust. Whether you need advice on wearing time, lens types or want to buy contacts online, we have you covered.

Browse our full range of contact lenses online UK customers love and enjoy expert support, fast delivery and great value.

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