USC Health Now

Q. What is the safest way to keep contact lenses clean? I’m worried about the recalls.

A. . “Over the past two years, two popular products were removed from the market because of an increased incidence of corneal infection that was identified among users of these solutions,” says Donaldo Figueroa, O.D., assistant clinical professor of ophthalmology at the Keck School of Medicine of USC and coordinator of the contact lens clinic at the Los Angeles County + USC Medical Center. However, he points out that the recalls did not involve the finding of contaminated product. “Rather, there are indications that something in the chemistry of these products allowed the growth of microbes when patients did not adhere to manufacturer recommendations,” explains Figueroa. As a result, the FDA has issued recommendations that include the following: removal of lenses when performing any activity involving water contact (i.e. showering or swimming), the use of fresh solution when storing or disinfecting, replacing storage cases after three months and rinsing of storage cases and air-drying after each use. Any FDA approved product can be used for proper cleaning and disinfection, says Figueroa. “Just be sure to carefully read and adhere to all instructions, including the guidelines listed above,” he says.