What's the best contact lens cleaning solution?

There are so many options out there it can get extremely confusing and tempting to pick the lowest costing, however this may not be the best choice.  I'll give you some quick tips on how to chose the best fit for your eyes. 

In the last handful of years there have been some scares with several contact lens cleaning brands.  Certain solutions being recalled, forcing many patients to pick from the rest without any proper knowledge of benefits.  Often times the reason this happens is microbial resistances to new formulas; bacteria evolves constantly and drugs need to do the same.  This doesn't even account for the research in understanding our own flora (bacteria living on us) that varies from patient to patient.  Merging both these factors of effectiveness and personal sensitivity are important when deciding a cleaning system that works for you.  

Most patients can tolerate most contact lens cleaning brands.  One must be certain it doesn't cause any redness, irritation, or stinging upon insertion of the contacts even if only several seconds.  Any negative sensations could mean that formula doesn't merge well with your biological enzymes.   Affectivity will be evident if your 2-week contact lenses are still comfortable during that measured time line.  

This is the skinny on brands.  Never buy store brands (CVS brand); often patient with infections use these brands.  Leading brands like Renu and Opti-free are popular for a reason, they are reliable companies that dedicate themselves to better care for ocular health.  Complete is another brand, which offers a more gentle option for sensitive, dry eyes.  ClearCare, a peroxide cleaning solution, is for hypoallergenic eyes; use caution, read the label before using.  This peroxide system I consider to be best for silicone, high oxygen lenses.

At Eyed LA we discuss these options and match your body with the best products out there.  It's not only the brand of contact lenses but also the cleaning system.  Spread the word!

See and Be Seen! at Eyed LA Optometry in Brentwood, West Los Angeles
www.eyedla.com