How to Put in Toric Contact Lenses: A Step-by-Step Guide

Quick Answer

To put in toric contact lenses, always wash your hands, check the lens orientation, and align the stabilisation marks correctly. Insert the lens gently, blink to settle it, and verify that it stays in the right position. If the lens rotates or feels uncomfortable, remove and reposition it.

Toric contact lenses are specially designed to correct astigmatism, a condition where the cornea is shaped more like a football than a basketball. Unlike standard spherical lenses, toric lenses have different powers in different meridians, so they must stay in a specific orientation on your eye to work correctly.

This guide walks you through the correct way to insert toric lenses, highlights common mistakes, and gives you checkpoints to ensure a comfortable, clear fit every time.

Before You Start: Preparation Steps

Before touching your lenses, always wash your hands with a mild, non-cosmetic soap and dry them with a lint-free towel. Avoid moisturising soaps that can leave a film on the lenses. Make sure your work surface is clean and well-lit, and keep your lens case and solution within reach.

Check the lens for any damage or debris before insertion. If it looks torn or has a chip, do not use it. Also, verify the lens is not inside out. For toric lenses, the stabilisation marks (usually small lines or dots) should be visible and positioned correctly.

• Never use tap water or saliva to rinse your lenses.
• Always use fresh solution, never reuse old solution from the case.

Step-by-Step Insertion Process

Place the lens on the tip of your index finger, making sure it is not inside out. For toric lenses, the ballast (thicker bottom part) should be at the bottom, and the stabilisation marks should be oriented correctly. Use your other hand to hold your upper eyelid open, and use your middle finger to pull down your lower eyelid.

Look up or straight ahead, and gently place the lens on the lower part of your eye. Release your eyelids slowly and blink a few times to help the lens settle. After blinking, check your vision and comfort. If the lens feels off, it may have rotated; you may need to adjust it by gently moving it with your eyelid or removing and reinserting it.

• Do not rub your eyes after inserting toric lenses, as this can cause the lens to rotate.
• If the lens rotates out of position, look in the opposite direction of the rotation to help it realign.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

One of the most common mistakes is inserting the lens inside out. Toric lenses have a visible orientation marker, so always check that it is on the correct side before insertion. Another mistake is not aligning the stabilisation marks properly, which can cause blurred vision and discomfort.

Many people also forget to check for lint or dust on the lens before insertion. Even a small particle can cause irritation and affect the lens's position. Always inspect the lens under good light before placing it in your eye.

• If you are new to toric lenses, practice inserting them during the day when you are not tired.
• If you experience persistent discomfort or blurred vision, remove the lens and consult your eye care professional.

Quick Insertion Checklist

1. Wash and dry your hands: Use a mild soap and a lint-free towel. Avoid moisturising soaps. Clean hands prevent eye infections.
2. Check the lens orientation: Ensure the lens is not inside out and the stabilisation marks are correctly positioned. Correct orientation ensures clear vision and comfort.
3. Insert and settle the lens: Place the lens on your eye, release your eyelids slowly, and blink a few times. Blinking helps the lens settle into the correct position.
4. Verify the fit: Check your vision and comfort. If the lens rotates, look in the opposite direction to help it realign. A well-fitted lens should feel comfortable and provide clear vision.

Toric Contact Lenses: What to Look For

• Glammic Soft Cocoa: Glammic Soft Cocoa colored contacts are made from silicone hydrogel with a water content of 38% and a total diameter of 14.3mm. Silicone hydrogel allows more oxygen to reach your eyes, which is especially important for toric lenses that may be thicker. The larger diameter can also help with stability on the eye.
• Kiralet Gray: Kiralet Gray colored contacts are made from PC-Silicone and come in a 3-month pack of 2 lenses, with a base curve of 8.6mm. A proper base curve is crucial for toric lenses to fit comfortably and stay in position. PC-Silicone material offers durability and comfort for extended wear.

Inserting toric contact lenses takes a bit of practice, but once you master the correct technique, it becomes a quick and easy part of your routine. Always follow your eye care professional's advice and never hesitate to ask for help if you're struggling. With patience and the right approach, you'll enjoy comfortable, clear vision throughout the day.