Thinking about ditching your specs and making the shift to contact lenses? You’re not alone. Thousands of people in India are making the change every year for reasons ranging from convenience and aesthetics to better peripheral vision and freedom during sports or travel.
However, switching from glasses to contacts isn’t just about swapping one for the other, it requires a bit of prep, hygiene awareness, and a few lifestyle adjustments.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to switch from glasses to contact lenses smoothly and safely, with practical tips tailored to first-time wearers in India.
Glasses vs Contact Lenses in India: What to Expect
Before making the switch, it’s important to understand the key differences between the two especially in the Indian climate and lifestyle context.
Glasses:
- Easy to wear and maintain
- No direct contact with the eye
- Fog up in humid weather or while wearing masks
- Limited peripheral vision
Contact Lenses:
- Sit directly on the eye for a wider field of view
- Unaffected by fog, heat, or sweating
- Great for active lifestyles or travel
- Require proper cleaning and storage
Step-by-Step: How to Switch from Glasses to Contact Lenses
Switching isn’t as simple as putting lenses in your eyes and moving on. It’s a process that involves eye care, practice, and patience.
Step 1: Visit an Eye Care Professional
Book an appointment with a certified optometrist or ophthalmologist for a proper contact lens fitting. Your eyeglass prescription is not the same as your lens prescription.
Step 2: Choose the Right Lens Type
Your doctor will recommend daily, bi-weekly, or monthly lenses based on your eye shape, hydration levels, and usage pattern. For beginners, daily disposables or soft monthly lenses are often ideal.
Step 3: Learn the Application Technique
Inserting and removing contact lenses can be tricky at first. Be patient and practice with clean hands in front of a mirror. Most users get comfortable within a week.
Step 4: Build a Hygiene Routine
This is crucial. Use a quality multipurpose solution like Multisol+ to clean, rinse, and disinfect your lenses. Never use water or homemade alternatives.
Switching is easiest when you commit to wearing lenses for a few hours each day at first, gradually increasing your wear time.
Also Read: How to remove eye lenses safely and easily
Contact Lens Tips India: Stay Comfortable and Safe
Your comfort depends on how well you follow best practices for handling and wearing lenses, especially in Indian conditions where heat, pollution, and water hygiene are variable.
Here Are Some Essential Tips:
- Always wash your hands before touching your lenses.
- Clean your lenses daily using fresh solution-never reuse old solution.
- Avoid tap water– India’s water quality can vary by region and is not sterile.
- Take out lenses before sleeping unless your doctor prescribes extended wear.
- Use lubricating eye drops if your eyes feel dry, especially during AC exposure or travel.
- Carry a lens case and solution while commuting in case of irritation or lens displacement.
Wearing Contact Lenses Safely
The key to wearing contact lenses safely is vigilance. With dust, pollution, and climate variation across states, eye protection and lens hygiene are more important than ever.
Dos:
- Use high-quality, doctor-recommended lens brands
- Keep backup glasses for use at night or during infections
- Replace lenses as per the schedule-daily, biweekly, or monthly
- Replace your lens case every 1–3 months
Don’ts:
- Don’t shower or swim wearing contact lenses (risk of waterborne infection)
- Don’t share your lenses or case with anyone
- Don’t wear lenses beyond their recommended life span
- Don’t self-medicate for redness or itching-see your eye doctor instead
A good contact lens disinfectant like Multisol+ helps reduce microbial risk when used properly. It’s especially useful during travel or exposure to air-conditioned environments, where dryness is common.
Common Mistakes First-Time Lens Wearers Make
Even experienced eyeglass users can struggle at first when making the switch. Watch out for these beginner mistakes:
- Skipping disinfection or reusing solution
- Wearing lenses longer than prescribed
- Touching lenses with unclean or wet hands
- Ignoring early signs of dryness, discomfort, or redness
Remember, even mild negligence can lead to eye infections or long-term irritation. The good news? Most issues are avoidable with a consistent care routine.
Final Thoughts: Making the Switch Smooth and Safe
Start slow, follow your eye doctor’s advice, and invest in a trusted contact lens disinfectant like Multisol+ to keep your lenses clean and safe. Whether you’re looking for convenience, aesthetic freedom, or clearer peripheral vision, contact lenses are a smart alternative to glasses, especially when used the right way.