Contact lens solution works primarily by cleaning, disinfecting, and storing contact lenses, removing debris and killing germs to prevent eye infections.
Here's a breakdown of the mechanisms:
-
Cleaning: Contact lens solutions contain surfactants that loosen and remove protein, lipids, and debris that accumulate on the lens surface during wear. This cleaning action helps maintain lens clarity and comfort.
-
Disinfecting: These solutions include antimicrobial agents that kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi that can cause eye infections. Common disinfectants include polyhexamethylene biguanide (PHMB) and polyquaternium-1.
-
Rinsing: Rinsing with contact lens solution removes loosened debris and residual cleaning agents from the lens before insertion.
-
Storing: Contact lens solutions keep the lenses hydrated and prevent them from drying out when not in use. This hydration maintains the lens's shape and optical properties.
-
Specific Solution Types:
- Multi-Purpose Solutions: These are the most common type and perform all the functions listed above.
- Hydrogen Peroxide Solutions: These solutions offer a more potent disinfection method. They require a special case with a neutralizing disc or tablet. The hydrogen peroxide breaks down into saline over several hours, ensuring it's safe to wear the lenses. The tiny bubbles observed indicate the neutralization process is working. It is extremely important to never put hydrogen peroxide solution directly into your eye without proper neutralization.
- Saline Solutions: These are primarily for rinsing and storing lenses, not for disinfecting.
Therefore, contact lens solutions are designed to provide a comprehensive cleaning, disinfection, and storage system, crucial for maintaining eye health and comfortable lens wear.
