Contact lenses have been around since the 1930s and have undergone several changes since. However, there a lot of myths surrounding contact lenses. Personally, I’ve worn contact lenses for 20 years now – which sounds like ages now I’ve typed it!

Here are the top 9 myths about contact lenses:

1. Contact lenses are not for me: Everyone can wear contacts thanks to all the latest technology. No matter what your vision problem, there is a contact lens with your name on it. Browse through Lensme to find the perfect solution for your vision. If your doctor said that you can’t wear contacts before, try again. Things change over time.
2. Contacts can get lost behind the eye: Despite all the horror stories, this is simply not true. A contact cannot get lost behind your eye. There is a membrane called conjunctiva that covers the white of your eyes and connects to the inside of the eyelids. This makes it impossible for a lens to get lost behind the eye. However, the lenses can get stuck behind your eyes. Don’t panic if this happens. Blink repeatedly, use re-wetting drops and if all fails ask your doctor for help. I normally just massage my eyelid until the contact reappears.
3. Contact lenses are not comfortable: Untrue! Soft contact lenses are extremely comfortable and allow oxygen to permeate through the lenses. After a point, you won’t even realise you’re wearing lenses at all. If you do experience discomfort, it could be because of dry eyes or a foreign matter that got in your eye.
4. Contact lenses are a big hassle: Yes and No. For monthly and weekly lenses, this could be true. But, it becomes a routine which is pretty easy to remember. However, if you don’t want to stress about it at all, just get daily disposable lenses. Solotica has a great collection that you can look at.  Daily lenses just need to be thrown out at the end of the day.
5. Lenses can cause infections: No. Lenses do not cause infections. Improper use and handling can cause infections. As long as you follow your doctor’s orders, you should be fine.
6. It’s too hard to insert in the eyes: There is a slight learning curve when it comes to applying and removing contacts, but it is not rocket science. 8-year-old children also wear contacts so literally anyone can learn how to do it. Have some patience and don’t rush through the process.
7. Contacts can pop out of your eyes: Unlike glasses that can slip and slide down your nose, contacts do no such thing. Contact lenses do not pop out of place. They fit very close to the eye and dislodgement is very rare.
8. Contact lenses are too expensive: Contact lenses can be quite affordable if you find the right brand and use monthly lenses. Daily disposable lenses may be a little too heavy on your pocket. But, it is coloured lenses that take the cake. Coloured contacts can cost you a lot more than regular lenses.
9. Contact lenses are only for the young: No matter how old you are or what conditions you have, you can wear contacts. There are contact lenses for presbyopia and other age-related degeneration that make it possible for people of any age to wear contacts. I mean, I’m 40 this year and I still wear them!