Thinking about trying contact lenses for the first time? Whether you want a glasses-free option for everyday life, something convenient for workouts and special occasions, or simply more flexibility with your vision, contact lenses can be a great addition to your routine.
But if you've worn glasses for years, the idea of putting a contact lens in your eye can feel a little intimidating at first.
At La Bleu Optique in Midtown Manhattan, we help first-time contact lens wearers find the right lenses, learn how to use them properly, and feel comfortable and confident wearing contacts.
Here’s what you should know before getting your first pair.
How Do Contact Lenses Work?
Contact lenses are thin prescription lenses that sit directly on the surface of your eye to correct your vision.
Because the lens moves with your eye, contacts provide a different experience from traditional eyeglasses. There's no frame in your field of vision, and you don't have to worry about glasses slipping down your nose, fogging up, or getting in the way during certain activities.
Contact lenses can correct many common vision conditions, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Multifocal contact lens options are also available for some people who need correction at multiple distances.
Do You Need a Contact Lens Exam?
Yes. Your regular glasses prescription isn't enough to purchase prescription contact lenses.
A contact lens exam and fitting includes measurements and evaluations that help your eye doctor determine which contact lens design, size, material, and prescription are appropriate for your eyes.
Your doctor will also consider factors such as your eye health, tear film, lifestyle, and how frequently you plan to wear contacts.
This is particularly important for beginners. A contact lens that works well for one person may not be the best option for someone else.
What Happens During a Contact Lens Fitting?
If you're getting contact lenses for the first time, don't worry—you aren't expected to already know how everything works.
During the fitting process, your eye doctor will evaluate your eyes and determine an appropriate lens option. You'll typically have an opportunity to try the lenses and assess how they fit and how well you can see through them.
First-time wearers can also learn the basics of safely inserting, removing, and caring for their contacts.
It may feel awkward initially, but inserting and removing contact lenses usually becomes much easier with practice.
What Types of Contact Lenses Are Available?
There isn't just one type of contact lens. Your eye doctor can recommend an option based on your prescription, eyes, and lifestyle.
Daily Disposable Contact Lenses
Daily contact lenses are worn for one day and discarded after use. The next time you wear contacts, you open a fresh pair.
Many people appreciate the convenience of daily lenses because there's no nightly cleaning or storage routine. They can also be useful for people who don't plan to wear contacts every day.
Reusable Contact Lenses
Some soft contact lenses are designed to be replaced on a schedule rather than discarded after a single day.
These lenses require proper cleaning and storage using an appropriate contact lens solution. It's important to follow the exact replacement and care schedule recommended by your eye doctor rather than wearing lenses longer than intended.
Toric Contact Lenses
If you have astigmatism, that doesn't necessarily mean you can't wear contacts.
Toric contact lenses are specifically designed to correct certain types and amounts of astigmatism. Your optometrist can determine whether they're appropriate for your prescription.
Multifocal Contact Lenses
Multifocal contacts are designed to provide vision correction at multiple distances and may be an option for people experiencing presbyopia.
Finding the right multifocal contact lens can require some personalization, so a professional fitting is particularly important.
How Do You Put Contact Lenses In?
This is usually the part first-time wearers worry about most.
Always begin by thoroughly washing and drying your hands. Place the contact lens on the tip of your clean, dry finger and make sure it isn't inside out.
While holding your eyelids open, gently place the lens onto the eye as instructed by your eye care professional.
It might take several attempts when you're learning, and that's completely normal. After you've worn contacts for a while, inserting and removing them can become as routine as brushing your teeth.
Contact Lens Hygiene Is Extremely Important
Contact lenses sit directly on your eyes, which means good hygiene isn't optional.
Always follow the care instructions provided by your eye doctor and the manufacturer of your specific lenses.
Some important habits include:
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Wash and dry your hands before handling contacts
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Never use tap water to clean or store contact lenses
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Don't wear lenses beyond their recommended replacement schedule
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Use fresh contact lens solution when required
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Keep reusable lens cases clean and replace them as directed
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Don't share contact lenses with another person
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Avoid sleeping in contacts unless your eye doctor has specifically prescribed lenses approved for that type of wear
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Remove your contacts if your eyes become unusually painful, red, irritated, or uncomfortable
If something doesn't feel right, don't simply continue wearing the lenses and hope it goes away. Remove them and contact your eye doctor for advice.
Can You Shower or Swim With Contact Lenses?
It's best to keep contact lenses away from water.
That includes swimming pools, lakes, hot tubs, and shower water. Water can introduce microorganisms to the eye and increase the risk of serious infection.
If swimming is a regular part of your lifestyle, talk with your eye doctor about the safest vision correction options for those activities.
How Long Does It Take to Get Used to Contacts?
Everyone is different.
Some first-time contact lens wearers feel comfortable almost immediately, while others need a little more time to adjust to the sensation and establish a routine.
The most important thing is that your contacts shouldn't consistently feel painful or significantly uncomfortable.
If you're struggling with your lenses, your optometrist may be able to adjust the fit or recommend a different contact lens material or design.
Contacts vs. Glasses: Do You Have to Choose?
Not at all.
In fact, many people who wear contacts also have several pairs of glasses.
You might prefer contacts for working out, going out, traveling, or certain activities while wearing your favorite frames on other days. Some people primarily wear contacts but switch to glasses in the evening to give their eyes a break.
And even if contacts become your primary form of vision correction, you should still have an up-to-date pair of prescription glasses available.
Think of contact lenses as another option rather than necessarily a replacement for eyewear.
Are Contact Lenses Right for You?
The best way to find out is through an eye exam and professional contact lens fitting.
Your prescription is only one part of choosing contacts. Your eye health, lifestyle, comfort, and personal preferences should all factor into the decision.
For someone who spends long hours on digital devices, has dry or sensitive eyes, plays sports, travels frequently, or only wants contacts occasionally, the best lens choice may be different.
That's why personalized fitting matters.
Find Contact Lenses in NYC at La Bleu Optique
Getting your first contact lenses doesn't have to be intimidating.
At La Bleu Optique in Midtown Manhattan, we can guide you through the process from your initial contact lens exam and fitting to learning how to comfortably insert, remove, and care for your new lenses.
Whether you're ready to switch from glasses, want contacts as an occasional alternative, or simply want to explore your options, we'll help you find a solution suited to your vision and lifestyle.
Schedule a contact lens exam in NYC at La Bleu Optique and take the first step toward becoming a confident contact lens wearer.