If you are a contact lens user, you certainly also use a solution to store these lenses, but many do not know the components of this solution, so learn with us from the following article in more detail about the lens solution, its constituent materials, its different types, and the factors that can help you choose the best type, In addition to some useful tips when using it and many other questions.

What is lens solution?

Lens solution is a liquid used to care for contact lenses to maintain a sense of comfort when wearing contact lenses every time, and also a way to reduce lens contamination and prevent eye infections.

Lens solution is used to clean and moisturize contact lenses, and there are several types that differ between types that help clean lenses only from any residue and germs, and some other types work to eliminate these germs permanently to protect the eye from infections.

Lens solution components

The ingredients in any lens solution determine the exact role of the solution. In some cases, these components may cause eye sensitivity and some other side effects, so it is important and necessary to know the components of the lens solution when purchasing it. Some common ingredients found in the solution include:

• Polyquaternium: A preservative that breaks down any pathogens of eye diseases and certain proteins.
• Boric Acid: An acid with antibacterial properties, it is added to clean and soothe irritated eyes.
• Propylene Glycol: Provides a protective layer over the mucous membrane to relieve eye inflammation.
• Polyaminopropyl Biguanide: A preservative that disinfects and cleans the outer surface of contact lenses.
• Hydrogen peroxide: Eye cleanser.
• Saline solution: A mixture of sodium chloride and water helps keep the other ingredients stable and keeps the lenses clean.

Types of lens solutions

The most common types of lens solutions used include:

1- Multi-purpose solution

It is a multi-use solution that cleans, disinfects, and stores contact lenses, and some types moisturize the lenses as well. Some research indicated that this type of lens solution is effective against germs that can lead to eye infections and other eye diseases such as keratitis.

2- Hydrogen peroxide solution

It is a solution that helps in cleaning, disinfecting and storing contact lenses. It is usually prescribed by ophthalmologists in case of allergic reactions to the multipurpose solution. This solution comes in a box or container that converts the hydrogen peroxide solution into a saline solution within a few hours, so users of this solution should avoid the closeness or contact of this converter with or near the eye, as this can lead to a feeling of tingling, burning or pain in the eye.

3- Enzymatic protein removers

Enzymatic protein removers are used to get rid of any residue accumulated on the lenses over time, and the doctor selects the appropriate type of these removers according to the type of contact lenses used. These removers can be available in the form of liquid or tablets that are used on a daily or weekly basis, according to the type used. This type should not be used without first consulting a doctor.

4- Rigid gas permeable lens solution (RGP)

Hard gas permeable lenses require a different care regimen or solution than other lens types, so this regimen or solution usually consists of combining a cleaning solution with a disinfecting solution or multipurpose solution.

In the past, hard lenses were washed with water, but this method is no longer recommended due to the possible presence of microorganisms in the water that can cause eye infections. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises not to use any water in contact lens solutions.

5- Saline solution

It is a preservative-free solution, consisting of a sterile mixture of water and salt, suitable for washing lenses, but not suitable for daily cleaning or storing lenses. All types of contact lenses can be used with this solution. The saline solution is not used to disinfect or clean the lenses because it does not contain any antiseptic properties or materials, so another type of lens solution should always be used.

6- Daily detergents

Daily cleaners are used to clean contact lenses only and not for the purpose of disinfecting them, as these cleaners remove any residue or residue on the lenses. Just apply a few drops to the palm of your hand, then rub the lenses on both sides for the duration indicated in the enclosed instructions. You will also need to use an all-purpose solution to disinfect, sterilize, and store your lenses.

How to choose the best lens solution

There are several factors that must be taken into account when choosing a lens solution, and to ensure that you choose the best type for you, most notably the following:

• Type of contact lenses. Some types of contact lenses require different solutions.
• Time, as some types, such as hydrogen peroxide, require contact lenses to be left in them for longer periods, compared to other types.
• Feeling comfortable, as many types help moisturize the eye, and others contain lubricants that help moisturize the eyes and reduce friction.
• The possibility of travel, some types of manufacturers of these solutions provide different and small sizes suitable for carrying easily during travel.
• Price, sometimes some people tend to buy double or multi-pack solutions, which are usually cheaper than buying one pack.

And when buying a lens solution, you can talk to a doctor or a specialist to help you know the best type for you according to the aforementioned factors, and always be sure to read the ingredients of any solution you are considering purchasing before purchasing, and in the event of any sensitivity when using the solution, change the type and if it persists You should consult a doctor.

Tips when using lens solution

Here are some carefully chosen tips that should be applied when using any type of contact lens solution:

• Hands should always be washed and dried thoroughly before handling contact lenses and contact lens solutions.
• Lenses should be rubbed and rinsed well when cleaning them.
• A new solution should be used each time, and an old solution should not be used.
• Only the type of solution recommended by the doctor should be used, to prevent exposure to any infections.
• The lens case must be changed every 3 months.

The American Optometric Association AOA also recommends:

• Avoid washing hands with any creamy soap, as soap residue can transfer to contact lenses.
• Homemade saline solution, water or saliva should not be used to clean the lenses.
• Lenses or solution should not be shared with anyone else.

Lens solution shelf life

The shelf life of some types of contact lens solutions may range from one year to 4 years, starting from the date of manufacture. If the solution is mixed with any residue or is damaged, it should not be used. It is preferable to buy a new solution or consult a doctor to find out what to do.

Can lens solution be made at home?

According to the data and information available, and despite the personal experiences spread on the Internet, you should not try to make your own lens solution at home yourself, as all the components that are found in the different types of solutions have been sterilized well and these solutions were made in a sterile environment, and it may be It is very difficult to achieve this at home.

In the case of brine, many believe that a suitable solution can be made by adding salt to the water, but unfortunately it is not that easy in many cases, as there are certain proportions that must be applied, and the salt used is not the type used in homes or available in most food stores. Therefore, we do not advise at all to try making the solution at home, as the eye is one of the most sensitive parts of the body, and you must pay close attention to everything that comes into contact with it.