If you're squeamish about touching your eyes but want to wear contacts, know that you're not alone! The trick to successfully applying contacts when you're squeamish involves a combination of mental preparation, meticulous hygiene, and specific insertion techniques that minimize direct eye contact, making the process much less daunting. With practice and the right approach, you can overcome your apprehension and comfortably enjoy the freedom and aesthetic appeal of contact lenses. For more on this, see our guide to How to Apply Colored Contacts Over Astigmatism Lenses.
Understanding Your Squeamishness
The thought of touching your eyeball can be truly unsettling for many people, and it's a completely natural reaction. Your eyes are incredibly sensitive, and your brain is hardwired to protect them. This inherent protective reflex is often the root cause of feeling squeamish when trying to insert contact lenses. It's not a sign of weakness; it's just your body doing its job!
It's Normal!
Feeling a bit grossed out or anxious about putting something directly onto your eye is incredibly common. Most contact lens wearers will tell you they felt the same way when they first started. The good news is that this feeling almost always subsides with practice. Your eyes and brain learn that the contact lens isn't a threat, and the process becomes routine.
Identify Your Triggers
Understanding what specifically makes you squeamish can help you develop targeted strategies. Is it the idea of your finger touching your eye? The fear of discomfort? The close proximity of an object to your eye? Pinpointing the exact trigger can help you focus on techniques that mitigate that specific fear.
Preparation is Key: Setting the Stage for Success
A calm, clean, and prepared environment can make a world of difference when you're learning how to apply contacts when you're squeamish. Rushing or being unprepared will only heighten your anxiety.
Wash Your Hands Meticulously
This is non-negotiable for eye health and hygiene. Before touching your lenses or eyes, always wash your hands thoroughly with mild, unscented soap and water. Rinse them completely to remove all soap residue, and dry them with a lint-free towel. Any oils, dirt, or lint on your fingers can transfer to your lens or eye, causing irritation or infection. If you're weighing options, our roundup of How to Apply Contacts With Long Nails is a good next read.
Gather Your Tools
Have everything you need within arm's reach before you start: your contact lens case, fresh contact lens solution, a clean mirror (preferably magnified), and your contact lenses. Ensure good lighting so you can clearly see what you're doing.
Create a Calm Environment
Choose a quiet, well-lit bathroom or bedroom where you won't be rushed or distracted. Play some calming music if it helps, and take a few deep breaths before you begin. A relaxed state of mind is crucial for overcoming the initial apprehension of applying squeamish contacts.
Techniques for a Smooth Insertion (Even for the Squeamish)
The key to overcoming your squeamishness is to minimize the perceived threat to your eye. These techniques focus on proper lid control and precise lens placement.
The "Look Away" Method
This is a highly effective technique for those who flinch when a finger approaches their pupil.
- Place the contact lens on the tip of your dominant index finger. Ensure it's correctly oriented (bowl-shaped, not inside out).
- With the middle finger of the same hand, pull your lower eyelid down firmly.
- With the index finger of your non-dominant hand, pull your upper eyelid up and hold it against your brow bone, ensuring your lashes are out of the way.
- Now, here's the trick: look sharply away from your finger – either up, down, or to the side.
- While looking away, gently place the lens onto the white part of your eye.
- Once the lens is on your eye, slowly release your eyelids, and then look straight ahead. Blink a few times to allow the lens to center itself.
The "Two-Finger Stretch"
This technique emphasizes opening your eye wide enough to reduce the chance of blinking or touching your lashes. You might also like our take on How to Apply Makeup With Colored Contacts.
- Again, place the lens on the tip of your dominant index finger.
- With your non-dominant hand, use your index finger to pull your upper eyelid up and your middle finger to pull your lower eyelid down. Stretch your eye open as wide as possible.
- While holding your eye wide open, bring the lens-carrying finger directly towards your eye.
- Gently touch the lens to the center of your eye. Don't press hard; the lens should naturally adhere to the moist surface.
- Once the lens is on, slowly release your eyelids and blink gently to settle the lens.
The "Lower Lid First" Approach
Some people find it easier to approach the eye from the bottom.
- Place the lens on your dominant index finger.
- With the middle finger of the same hand, pull your lower eyelid down firmly.
- Gently bring the lens towards your eye, aiming to touch the lower white part (sclera) of your eye first.
- As the lens makes contact and adheres, slowly release your lower lid.
- Then, gently release your upper lid and blink naturally to let the lens center.
Practice Makes Perfect (Without the Lens)
If you're still very squeamish, try practicing the motions without an actual contact lens. With clean hands, go through the motions of holding your eyelids open and bringing your finger towards your eye. Get used to the sensation and the proximity. This "dry run" can desensitize your eye and brain, making the real thing much easier.
Mental Hacks to Overcome the Fear
Your mindset plays a huge role in overcoming the initial hurdle of applying contacts when you're squeamish.
Positive Self-Talk
Replace negative thoughts ("I can't do this," "It's going to hurt") with positive affirmations ("I am capable," "This will get easier," "Millions of people do this every day"). Remind yourself of the benefits of wearing contacts.
Deep Breathing and Relaxation
When you feel your anxiety rising, pause. Take a few slow, deep breaths. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth. This can calm your nervous system and reduce the urge to flinch.
Visualize Success
Before you even pick up the lens, close your eyes and visualize yourself successfully and calmly inserting the contact lens. Imagine the lens settling comfortably and you blinking without effort. This mental rehearsal can prepare your mind for the task. We break this down further in How to Apply and Care for Your Colored Contact Lenses.
Take Breaks
If you're getting frustrated or your eyes are watering excessively, take a break. Step away for a few minutes, clear your mind, and try again when you feel more composed. Pushing through intense anxiety often leads to more frustration.
Post-Application Care and Confidence Building
Once you've successfully applied your lenses, maintaining good habits will build your confidence and ensure your eye health.
Proper Hygiene is Non-Negotiable
Always follow your eye care professional's instructions for cleaning, disinfecting, and storing your contact lenses. Never use tap water or saliva to clean lenses, and always use fresh solution. This is paramount for preventing eye infections.
Don't Rush Removal
Just like insertion, removal requires a calm approach. Wash your hands thoroughly. Look up, pull your lower lid down, and gently pinch the lens off the white of your eye with your thumb and index finger. It might feel strange at first, but it's generally easier than insertion.
Celebrate Small Victories
Every successful insertion or removal is a step forward. Acknowledge your progress! The more you practice, the more your brain and eyes will adapt, and the less squeamish you'll feel. Soon, applying your lenses will become a quick, automatic part of your daily routine. It pairs well with what we cover in Colored Contacts vs Eye Makeup for Changing Your Look.
Once you master the art of applying your lenses, a whole new world of possibilities opens up, especially with colored contacts. MyEyeColors offers a stunning array of shades that can enhance your natural eye color or transform your look entirely. Remember, colored contacts are medical devices, so always ensure you have a valid prescription and have been fitted by an eye care professional before browsing our beautiful options at MyEyeColors.
Key Takeaways
- Your squeamishness is normal and can be overcome with practice and patience.
- Always prioritize meticulous hand hygiene to protect your eye health.
- Utilize techniques like "Look Away" or "Two-Finger Stretch" to minimize direct eye contact and blinking.
- Mental preparation, including positive self-talk and deep breathing, is crucial.
- Practice the motions without a lens to desensitize yourself.
- Always follow your eye care professional's advice for lens care and never share lenses.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it really normal to be squeamish about putting in contacts?
Absolutely! It's one of the most common initial hurdles for new contact lens wearers. Your eyes have a natural protective reflex against foreign objects, and it takes time and practice for your brain to learn that the contact lens is harmless.
How long does it take to get used to putting in contacts?
It varies greatly from person to person. Some people get the hang of it in a few days, while for others it might take a couple of weeks of consistent practice. Be patient with yourself, and remember that consistent effort will pay off.
What if I just can't get the lens into my eye?
Don't panic. If you're struggling, take a break. Your eyes might be watering too much, or you might be too tense. Re-wash your hands, take a few deep breaths, and try again. If the issue persists, contact your eye care professional for personalized guidance or a refresher lesson. Never force the lens or use tools not recommended by your doctor.
Does it hurt when you put in a contact lens?
No, a properly inserted contact lens should not hurt. You might feel a slight sensation as it settles, but it should never be painful. If you experience pain, remove the lens immediately, check it for damage or dirt, and rinse it with fresh solution. If pain persists or your eye is irritated, consult your eye care professional.
Can colored contacts like those from MyEyeColors help if I'm squeamish?
The application process for colored contacts is identical to clear contacts, as they are both medical devices. While the exciting prospect of changing your eye color with MyEyeColors lenses might be a great motivator, the techniques for overcoming squeamishness remain the same. Always ensure you have a proper prescription and fitting from an eye care professional before trying any type of contact lens, including cosmetic ones.
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