Ophthalmologist warned about harmful factors to lenses

Tanning sprays, hair sprays, and antiseptics can become invisible enemies to the eyes if they get on contact lenses. Particles of these substances linger on the surface of the lenses, causing discomfort and reducing the quality of vision. Kristina Gorbacheva, an ophthalmologist at the Vision Center, told Izvestia about this on September 16.

The expert explained that when aerosols get on the lenses, the material can be damaged, and chemical components settle on the eye surface, causing a feeling of sand, redness and irritation.

"Hair sprays, household aerosols, sunscreen sprays and alcohol antiseptics are the most dangerous if contact with eyes or lenses occurs immediately after hand treatment. Regular exposure to such substances can lead to erosion of the cornea and the development of "aerosol keratopathy," Gorbacheva warned.

The ophthalmologist recommended choosing one-day lenses, as they allow you to immediately dispose of a contaminated pair. Long-term replacement lenses can accumulate chemical residues, which increases the risk of eye irritation, even when using special cleaning products. Symptoms of lens contamination include blurred vision, the appearance of halos and iridescent circles around light sources, burning, lacrimation, and redness.

"If the spray or aerosol gets into the eyes and on the lenses, they should be removed. If it is not possible to remove the lens immediately, you can drip moisturizing drops or saline solution, rinse the eye for 10-15 minutes, and then try to remove the lens again. In case of contact with varnish, oil spray or self—tanning, it is better to throw away the lens, since the film cannot be completely removed," the doctor clarified.

Gorbacheva emphasized that aerosols should be applied before putting on the lenses, while it is better to close the eyes during spraying. Spray the products at a distance, in a well-ventilated area, and to treat the face, first apply them to your hands and rinse thoroughly before contact with the lenses. Lenses can be worn only after the product has completely dried and the room has been ventilated.

People whose profession involves frequent use of aerosols, such as hairdressers, models, cleaning staff, and others, should be especially careful. Observing hygiene rules and using one-day lenses can reduce the risk of complications. Urgent consultation with an ophthalmologist is necessary for severe pain, photophobia, lacrimation, blurred vision, any discharge or inability to open the eye.

On August 9, ophthalmologist and CEO of VISTA Ophthalmology Center Anton Kazantsev shared useful habits for maintaining vision. He recommended using the technique of conscious blinking, especially when a person is at a desk at a monitor. Blinking slowly 10-15 times away from the monitor will help to restore the eyes and prevent their dryness.

All important news is on the Izvestia channel in the MAX messenger.