Removing contact lenses with nails can be a daunting task, but with a little preparation and some basic skills, it’s actually not that difficult. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Clean the lenses thoroughly with a solution of one part water to two parts isopropyl alcohol. Make sure to rinse them well and dry them thoroughly.
2. Apply a thin layer of contact lens adhesive to the back of the lens. Make sure to cover the entire lens.
3. Place the lens on the back of your hand, with the adhesive facing up. Hold the lens in place with your other hand.
4. Using a sharp, clean nail, gently scratch
How To Take Out Contacts with Long Nails
Trim your nails before removing your contacts
Removing contact lenses with nails is not always a straightforward process. The best way to remove them is to trim your nails before you attempt to remove them. Nails can snag on the contact lenses, causing them to tear or even fall out.
If you are using acetone to remove the lenses, be very careful not to inhale the fumes. acetone can irritate your eyes and throat, and can even be toxic if ingested.
Wash your hands thoroughly
Use an antimicrobial soap or wipes
Apply pressure to the rim of the lens with your thumbnail and twist
Hold the lens with one hand while gently pulling it off with the other
Rinse the lens and hands thoroughly
Replace contact lenses as required
There are a few important points to keep in mind when removing contact lenses with nails:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly before beginning, to avoid cross contamination.
2. Use an antimicrobial soap or wipes to clean your hands and the lenses.
3. Apply pressure to the rim of the lens with your thumbnail and twist.
4. Hold the lens with one hand and gently pull it off with the other.
5. Rinse the lens and hands thoroughly.
6. Replace contact lenses as required.
Gently pinch the lens between your thumb and forefinger
Grip the edge of the lens with your other fingers
Carefully pull the lens off of your eye
Place the lens on your fingertip
- Gently grip the lens by the edge with one hand and pull it off the eye with the other.
- Scrape off any dirt or residue that may be on the lens.
- If the lens is difficult to remove, use a pin to pierce the central ridge near the edge and twist the lens off.
4. Rinse the lens with water to remove any dirt or residue.
- Gently wipe the lens with a cloth to remove any remaining dirt or residue.
- If the lens is non-prescription, recycle it. If the lens is prescription, carefully discard it.
- Replace the lens in the eye.
Bring the lens to the front of your eye
Use the edge of your fingernail to gently scoop the lens off the eye
Hold the lens away from your face and discard it in a safe place
Conclusion
If you have to remove contact lenses with your nails, make sure to do it slowly and carefully to avoid tearing the lenses. Holding the lens in one hand and the nails in the other, gently push the lens out from the eye. If it’s difficult to remove the lens, try using a blunt object like a pencil to pry it out. Finally, rinse your eye with water and get ready for your new prescription.
