How to Stop Blinking When Putting in Contacts (without Feeling Like a Startled Deer)
We’ve all been there: standing in front of the mirror, contact lens perched on your finger, only to blink like you’re auditioning for a role in a horror movie. Blinking is our eyes’ dramatic way of saying, “Nope, not today!” But what if we told you there’s a way to outsmart those rebellious eyelids? Let’s break down the tricks to conquer the blink battle—and hey, if all else fails, we’ll even throw in some shameless plugs for our team at Liberty Laser Eye Center in Vienna, Virginia. Because sometimes, ditching contacts altogether is the ultimate power move.
Why Do We Blink Like Crazy with Contacts? Let’s Science This
Blinking is like our eyes’ overprotective bodyguard—it’s trying to shield them from perceived threats (even if that “threat” is a tiny, harmless piece of plastic). Here’s the breakdown:
- Reflexes gone rogue: your brain thinks anything near your eye = danger. Thanks, evolution.
- Dry eyes: If your eyes feel like the Sahara, blinking becomes a survival tactic.
- First-time jitters: Newbies often panic, triggering a blink frenzy.
FYI, if you’re still struggling after weeks of practice, maybe your eyes are hinting at bigger issues—like nearsightedness, astigmatism, or even dry eye syndrome. That’s where our pals at Liberty Laser Eye Center come in. Their Advanced PRK Surgery and Dry Eye Treatment have saved countless locals from contact lens purgatory. Just saying.
Pro Tips to Train Those Eyelids (No Hypnosis Required)
1. Practice Makes Less Panic
Start by getting comfy touching your eye area. Wash your hands (duh), then:
- Hold your eyelids open with your non-dominant hand.
- Use your dominant hand to gently tap your cornea with your fingertip (no lens yet).
- Repeat until your eye stops flinching.
This isn’t a TikTok challenge—go slow. Your goal is to rewire your brain’s “DANGER!” response.
2. The Mirror Is Your Frenemy
Staring into a mirror while inserting contacts? Big mistake. Your eyes focus on the lens coming at them, which amps up the panic. Instead:
- Look straight ahead, not at the mirror.
- Use your peripheral vision to guide the lens.
Still struggling? Try lying down. Gravity helps keep your eyelids relaxed.
3. Moisture Is Key
Dry eyes = blink city. Use preservative-free drops before inserting lenses. If dryness persists, ask us about PresbyLASIK Surgery or corneal Cross-Linking at our Vienna clinic. We’re basically the hydration heroes of Northern Virginia.
When All Else Fails: Embrace the Dark Side (a.k.a. Lasik)
Let’s be real: some of us weren’t born to handle the daily drama of contacts. If you’re over the blink battles, laser eye surgery might be your ticket to freedom. At Liberty Laser Eye Center, we’re obsessed with options:
- Topography-Guided LASIK: Custom maps your cornea for insane precision.
- Wavefront Analysis: Think of it as a “blueprint” for your vision.
- PresbyLASIK: Perfect for anyone battling presbyopia (looking at you, readers over 40).
Our best Lasik surgeons in Washington DC have a success rate that’ll make your head spin (in a good way). And with affordable payment plans, you might spend less than you do on yearly contact supplies.
“But Wait, What If I’m Scared of Surgery?”
Totally valid! Here’s a quick comparison to calm those nerves:
| Solution | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Contacts | Cheap upfront, no recovery time | Daily hassle, risk of dry eyes/infection |
| Lasik | Permanent, 20/20 vision in hours | Upfront cost, mild Lasik recovery |
| Advanced PRK | Great for thin corneas, long-term results | Longer recovery (worth it, IMO) |
Still unsure? Swing by our office for a free Annual Eye Exam. We’ll map your corneas, chat about eye surgery types, and help you pick the right path—no pressure.
4 Burning Questions (Answered Without Judgement)
1. “How long does it take to stop blinking?”
For most, 1–2 weeks of daily practice. If it’s taking longer, rule out keratoconus or other issues with a Topography-Guided LASIK consult.
2. “Can everyone learn to insert contacts?”
Most people, yes. But if you have severe astigmatism or farsightedness, lenses might just hate you. Ask us about surgical alternatives.
3. “What if I still can’t do it?”
Join the club! Many of our patients switch to laser eye surgery after years of frustration. Check our reviews—they’re basically love letters to crisp vision.
4. “Are there alternatives to contacts or surgery?”
Glasses, obviously. But if you’re craving freedom, laser eye surgery near you (hi, we’re in Virginia!) is life-changing.
Final Thoughts: Blink Less, See More
Mastering contacts is like learning to parallel park—it feels impossible until it’s not. But if you’re done fighting your reflexes, remember: Liberty Laser Eye Center is right here in Vienna, serving Washington DC and beyond. Whether you’re curious about Lasik doctors, Dry Eye Treatment, or just need a pep talk, we’ve got your back (and your corneas).
Ready to ditch the blink battles? Contact us today. And hey, if you mention this article, we’ll throw in an extra eye drop sample. You’re welcome ;).
People Also Ask
The key to inserting contact lenses comfortably and safely lies in consistent hygiene and a gentle, practiced technique. Always start by thoroughly washing and drying your hands. Place the lens on the tip of your clean, dry index finger. Use the middle finger of the same hand to hold your lower eyelid down, and use the middle finger of your other hand to hold your upper eyelid up. Look straight ahead or slightly upward. Gently place the lens directly onto the center of your eye. Do not blink immediately; instead, slowly release your eyelids and allow the lens to settle. If it feels uncomfortable, add a drop of sterile saline solution. The real trick is patience and practice, ensuring you never force the lens and always use fresh solution for storage.
Blinking frequently with contact lenses is a common reaction as your eyes adjust to the foreign object. The lenses can initially cause mild irritation or dryness, triggering a reflexive blink to produce more tears for lubrication and comfort. This is often more pronounced with new wearers or if the lens fit isn't optimal. Environmental factors like air conditioning, screen use, or allergens can exacerbate dryness, further increasing blink rate. Using high-quality, properly fitted lenses and preservative-free lubricating drops can significantly help. If excessive blinking persists, it's crucial to consult your eye care professional to rule out issues like dry eye syndrome, an incorrect prescription, or a need for a different lens material.
Eye twitching, or myokymia, can be common for contact lens wearers and is often linked to eye strain or dryness. To stop it, first ensure your lenses are properly fitted and not expired. Use high-quality lubricating eye drops specifically formulated for contact lens wear to combat dryness. Take regular breaks from screens using the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Reduce caffeine and ensure adequate sleep, as fatigue is a major trigger. If twitching persists, it may indicate an underlying issue like eye strain or allergies. For a comprehensive guide on causes and professional treatments, see our detailed article Eye Twitching: Causes, Remedies & Treatment | Liberty Laser Eye Center Vienna, VA.
The term "blink solution" in the context of contact lenses typically refers to lubricating eye drops specifically formulated for contact lens wearers. These solutions are designed to relieve dryness and discomfort by adding moisture while the lenses are in your eyes. They are distinct from multi-purpose solutions used for cleaning and disinfecting. It is crucial to use only products labeled as safe for use with contacts, as other eye drops can damage lenses or cause irritation. For optimal eye health, always follow your eye care professional's recommendations and the manufacturer's instructions for both your lenses and any rewetting drops. Regular eye exams ensure your contact lens solution regimen remains appropriate.
To minimize blinking when inserting contact lenses at home, start by practicing good hygiene and creating a calm environment. Wash and dry your hands thoroughly. Use a mirror and ensure you are in a well-lit area. With your non-dominant hand, hold your upper eyelid open firmly. With your dominant hand, use your middle finger to gently pull down your lower eyelid. Look straight ahead or slightly upward as you place the lens on your eye. A key technique is to try to relax and focus on a distant point, which can help suppress the natural blink reflex. If blinking persists, consider using rewetting drops beforehand to ensure your eyes are comfortable and moist. Consistent, gentle practice will help your eyes adapt over time.
To minimize blinking when inserting contact lenses, start by ensuring your hands are clean and the lens is properly positioned on your fingertip. Use your non-dominant hand to hold your upper eyelid open firmly against your brow bone. With your dominant hand, use your middle finger to gently pull down your lower eyelid. Look straight ahead or slightly upward, and try to focus on a fixed point in the distance as you bring the lens toward your eye. The key is to avoid staring directly at the approaching finger or lens, as this triggers the blink reflex. Practice keeping your eye open and relaxed; the lens should adhere smoothly upon gentle contact with the cornea. If blinking persists, consider using rewetting drops beforehand to increase comfort. Consistent, calm practice will help desensitize the reflex over time.
Putting in contact lenses becomes easier with consistent practice and proper technique. First, always wash and dry your hands thoroughly to prevent eye infections. Start by placing the lens on the tip of your clean, dry index finger. Use your other hand to hold your upper eyelid open, and use the middle finger of your hand holding the lens to gently pull down your lower eyelid. Look straight ahead or slightly upward. Bring the lens directly to your eye, trying not to blink or flinch. Gently place the lens onto your eye. Slowly release your eyelids and blink a few times to help the lens settle into place. If it feels uncomfortable, remove it, rinse with fresh solution, and try again. Using lubricating drops can help if your eyes are dry. Always follow your eye care professional's specific instructions for your lens type and replacement schedule.
