Contact lenses should be convenient, not irritating. They’re designed to be a comfortable, effective answer to all kinds of vision problems. But whether you’ve worn contacts for years or are thinking about trying them for the first time, new lenses can be tricky. So how can you tell if a contact lens is inside out?
If you notice blurry vision, grittiness, or the lens moving around, it’s probably inside out. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to fix this. Discomfort is unusual if you’ve put your lens in correctly, so it’s always worth checking out if there’s a problem.
How Should Contact Lenses Fit?
Contact lenses should fit comfortably on the surface of your eye. When they’re in the correct position, you should be able to see clearly without irritation. But to function properly, they need to be oriented correctly.
However, if they’re inside out, even the best lenses can disrupt your day. This is a common problem. Fortunately, the signs are hard to miss—a misaligned lens will cause distorted vision.
Signs a Contact Lens Is Inside Out
An inside-out lens happens all the time, causing problems like:
- Discomfort or irritation in the eye
- A sensation that something is off or not fitting right
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Difficulty keeping the lens in place
- Vision may seem cloudy or less clear despite wearing the lens
If you notice any of these signs, remove the lens and check the orientation of your lens. This could be all it takes to stop your discomfort.
Are Contact Lenses Reversible?
Soft contact lenses are extremely flexible—this is what makes them so comfortable. However, this does create the chance of the lens flipping around in the case or in your hands.
Fortunately, spotting an inside-out lens can be straightforward when you take a closer look. There are 3 key strategies for finding out the right orientation for a lens.
First, remove the lens. Then, try one of these tips.
Check the Shape
Start by placing the lens on your fingertip with the edges facing upward. Look at the edges of the lens. If the edges flare outward, like a bowl with a rim, it’s inside out.
If the edges are smooth and form a universally-curved bowl shape, the lens is angled correctly. It helps to set up proper lighting before trying this, as it can be easy to miss the subtle differences otherwise.
Look for Markings
Most contact lenses have tiny laser-cut manufacturer markings. These may be numbers, serial codes, or any assortment of little letters. Such markings can be extremely helpful for letting you check the orientation of a lens.
When checking for these markings:
- Hold the lens close to a light source.
- Look for numbers or letters near the edge of the lens.
- If the characters are backward, flip the lens over and check again.
This is sometimes all it takes to find the right way to put your contacts in.
Bend the Lens
Sometimes, the simplest approach is the best. If you can’t figure out if a lens is inside out, try bending it gently. This is called the “taco test”.
Here’s how:
- Lightly pinch the edges of the lens together.
- Watch how the sides react.
- If the sides curl inward toward each other, and it feels easy to bend, the lens is correctly oriented.
- If they flare outward, and you feel resistance, the lens is likely inside out.
These steps can help prevent irritation and keep your lens comfortably in your eye.
How to Remove a Stubborn Contact Lens
Getting a lens stuck in your eye can be extremely frustrating—especially if it’s backwards or slipping out of place. Don’t rush, and make sure to stay calm. Rushing will just lead to further discomfort.
Then, make sure to:
- Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes.
- Blink several times or apply rewetting drops to loosen the lens.
- Gently slide the lens toward the white part of your eye using the tip of your finger.
- Once it’s on the outer edge, carefully pinch it between your thumb and finger to remove it.
If the lens doesn’t move easily, pause and use lubricating drops before repeating the process. Never use a tool or sharp object to try and pry the lens out, as this can damage your eyes.
Finding the Perfect Contact Lens
Wearing contact lenses starts with finding the right fit. They’re not universal, so you’ll need a contact lens exam to make sure you’re getting the right lens for your needs. Make sure to come visit our team at Vivid Eye Care! We’re here to keep your vision clear, and we’ll work with you to find your perfect lenses. Book an appointment with us today—we’re ready to help.
