Expiry date of contact lenses

The expiry date and usability of lenses should be taken very seriously. Ignoring the manufacturer's recommendations can cause infections, irritation and even eye disease.

Lens types and lens life

Lenses must be replaced regularly. It is best to buy at least one package in advance.

• Day-old lenses

Useful life: 1 day.

Mode of use: daily.

One-day lenses are used once only, a new set of lenses should be used every day. It is the best choice for allergy sufferers and people with sensitive eyes. It is also ideal when contact lenses are worn occasionally or for sporting activities, for example.

• Two-week lenses

Useful life: 2 weeks, i.e. 14 days in day mode (removable overnight) or 7 days and 7 nights, without interruption.

Mode of use: depending on the model: day or continuous (day and night).

• Monthly lenses

Useful life: 30 days.

Mode of use: depending on the model: daytime (removable overnight) or continuous.

Continuous use of monthly lenses does not require daily care. Such lenses must have high oxygen permeability parameters.

• Quarterly lenses

Useful life: 90 days.

Usage mode: daytime (removable overnight).

Due to the long replacement period, it is necessary to take particular care of hygiene when using three-month lenses.

• Annual lenses

Useful life: 12 months.

Mode of use: daily

Wearing the same contact lenses for a year posed a great risk of complications and eye diseases, so these lenses were almost completely withdrawn from the market.

Date of expiry and date of use

Whatever the type of lens, there are two dates on the packaging: the expiry date (as a medical product) and the use-by date.

Expiration date - it is usually located just below the barcode on the package and on each blister protection film. It defines the day, month and year, which is the time until which you can open and use lenses.

The date of use of contact lenses depends on the duration of use (daily, monthly, etc.). It counts from the day you open the blister, not from the first time you apply your lenses. This date is best written on the package, calendar or phone to know when to use new ones.

The service life and validity of lenses shall not be extended when worn occasionally. In the case of monthly lenses, for example, even if they are used only 2-3 times, they should be replaced with new ones after 30 days. Wearing lenses longer than recommended can cause many unpleasant conditions (such as burning, redness, itching and dry eyes) and eye diseases.

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