Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) contact lenses are a popular choice for people with astigmatism or other vision problems. Unlike soft lenses, RGP lenses are made of a hard plastic material that allows oxygen to pass through, making them more comfortable to wear.
However, proper cleaning and maintenance are crucial to keeping your RGP contact lenses in good condition and preventing eye infections. In this article, we’ll go through the steps to clean RGP contact lenses and provide some tips for maintaining them.
Materials Needed for Cleaning RGP Contact Lenses
Before we begin, let’s gather the necessary materials for cleaning RGP contact lenses. You will need:
Contact Lens Solution
Choose a contact lens solution that is specifically designed for RGP lenses. These solutions are usually preservative-free and gentler on the lenses than generic solutions.
Contact Lens Case
Make sure your contact lens case is clean and free of bacteria. It’s best to replace your case every three months or as recommended by your eye doctor.
Tweezers
Tweezers can be used to remove debris or hairs that may have stuck to your lenses.
Cleaning Solution
In addition to the contact lens solution, you’ll need a cleaning solution that can remove protein and other buildup from your RGP lenses. Your eye doctor can recommend a suitable cleaning solution for you.
Now that we have our materials let’s move on to the pre-cleaning procedures.
Pre-Cleaning Procedures for RGP Contact Lenses
Before cleaning your RGP contact lenses, it’s essential to follow these pre-cleaning procedures to ensure that your lenses are free of debris and bacteria.
Wash Hands
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them with a lint-free towel. Avoid using moisturizing soaps as they can leave a residue on your hands that can transfer to your lenses.
Remove Contact Lenses
Remove your contact lenses from your eyes using clean fingers. Make sure you have the correct lens for each eye, and avoid mixing them up.
Clean Contact Lens Case
Clean your contact lens case with contact lens solution and let it air dry. Avoid rinsing your case with tap water, as it can contain bacteria that can contaminate your lenses.
Now that we have completed the pre-cleaning procedures let’s move on to the steps for cleaning RGP contact lenses.
Steps for Cleaning RGP Contact Lenses
Now that we have completed the pre-cleaning procedures let’s move on to the steps for cleaning RGP contact lenses.
Rinse Contact Lenses with Contact Lens Solution
Rinse your RGP contact lenses with contact lens solution to remove any debris or dirt. Hold the lens in the palm of your hand and apply a few drops of solution to the lens. Rub the lens gently with your finger for a few seconds, making sure to clean both sides of the lens.
Use Tweezers to Remove Debris
Use tweezers to remove any stubborn debris or hairs that may have stuck to your lenses. Be gentle when using tweezers to avoid scratching or damaging the lens.
Rub Contact Lenses Gently with Cleaning Solution
Apply a few drops of cleaning solution to the lens and rub it gently with your finger for 20-30 seconds. This will help to remove protein buildup and other deposits that can cloud your vision.
Rinse Contact Lenses Again
Rinse your RGP contact lenses thoroughly with contact lens solution to remove any cleaning solution or debris. Make sure that all the cleaning solution is removed from the lenses. Once the lenses are clean, you can proceed to the post-cleaning procedures.
Post-Cleaning Procedures for RGP Contact Lenses
After cleaning your RGP contact lenses, there are a few important steps to follow to ensure that your lenses are disinfected and stored properly.
Disinfect Contact Lenses
Disinfect your RGP contact lenses by soaking them in contact lens solution for the recommended time. Your eye doctor can advise you on how long to disinfect your lenses.
Store Contact Lenses in Clean Case
Store your RGP contact lenses in a clean contact lens case filled with fresh contact lens solution. Make sure that the lenses are completely covered in solution to prevent them from drying out.
Wash Hands
Wash your hands again with soap and water before handling your lenses. This will help to prevent any bacteria or dirt from transferring to your lenses and causing an infection.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your RGP contact lenses are clean and comfortable to wear. In the next section, we’ll go over some tips for maintaining your lenses.
Post-Cleaning Procedures for RGP Contact Lenses
Now that you’ve cleaned your RGP contact lenses let’s move on to the post-cleaning procedures.
Disinfect Contact Lenses
After cleaning your lenses, it’s essential to disinfect them to kill any remaining bacteria or germs. Place your lenses in the contact lens case and fill it with fresh contact lens solution. Let your lenses soak for the recommended time as directed by the manufacturer. Avoid reusing contact lens solution as it can contain bacteria that can cause eye infections.
Store Contact Lenses in Clean Case
Always store your RGP contact lenses in a clean and dry contact lens case. Make sure to replace your case every three months or as recommended by your eye doctor. Avoid using cracked or damaged cases as they can harbor bacteria and compromise your lenses’ cleanliness.
Wash Hands
Before handling your contact lenses, always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water and dry them with a lint-free towel. This step will prevent transferring bacteria or dirt from your hands to your lenses.
Tips for Maintaining RGP Contact Lenses
Here are some tips to help you maintain your RGP contact lenses and keep them in good condition:
Replace Contact Lens Case Regularly
Replace your contact lens case every three months or as recommended by your eye doctor. This step will help prevent contamination and keep your lenses clean.
Avoid Using Tap Water on Contact Lenses
Never use tap water to clean or rinse your contact lenses as it can contain harmful bacteria that can cause eye infections. Always use sterile contact lens solution recommended by your eye doctor.
Follow Your Eye Doctor’s Instructions
Your eye doctor will provide you with specific instructions on how to clean and maintain your RGP contact lenses. Make sure to follow their advice to avoid any complications with your lenses or eyes.
In conclusion, proper cleaning and maintenance are essential to keeping your RGP contact lenses in good condition and preventing eye infections. By following the steps and tips outlined in this article, you can ensure that your lenses remain clean, comfortable, and safe to wear. Remember to always follow your eye doctor’s instructions and consult them if you have any concerns about your RGP contact lenses.