For many first-time wearers, one of the biggest struggles with contact lenses is the simple act of putting them in. It often feels frustrating when the lens won’t go into the eye, keeps sticking to your finger, or falls out before it even reaches the surface of the eye. Some people give up entirely, thinking that contacts just aren’t for them. But in reality, there are several common reasons why inserting contact lenses feels difficult — and the good news is, each of them can be solved with the right technique and a bit of practice.
1. Fear and natural blinking reflex
The number one reason beginners struggle with contact lenses is fear. Whether it’s fear of poking the eye, fear of pain, or worry that the lens will damage the eye, your body reacts automatically by blinking whenever something comes close. This protective reflex makes it hard for the lens to actually reach your eye. The solution is to slowly get used to touching the area around your eyes. Try practicing by gently touching your eyelid or the skin under your eye without a lens. Once your brain becomes more comfortable, it will be easier to keep your eyes open when you’re ready to insert the lens.
2. Incorrect insertion technique
Sometimes the problem isn’t fear but the method itself. If you place the lens off-center or don’t use both hands to hold your eyelids, the lens will either fall or fail to stick. The proper technique is simple: use the middle finger of your dominant hand to pull down your lower eyelid, and the other hand to hold up your upper eyelid. Place the lens on the tip of your index finger (make sure the finger is dry, not too wet), and gently place it on the center of your cornea. Looking straight ahead or slightly upward can also make the process smoother.
3. Lens condition and hand cleanliness
The state of the lens matters more than many people realize. A lens that is dry, flipped inside out, or has debris on it won’t sit properly on the eye. Similarly, hands that are oily, wet, or not thoroughly cleaned cause the lens to cling to the finger instead of the eye. To fix this, always check if the lens is right-side out — it should look like a perfect bowl, not a flared-out dish. If it’s dry, rinse it with lens solution or apply rewetting drops. And most importantly, wash your hands thoroughly and dry them completely before handling lenses.
4. Dry eyes or lack of moisture
When the eyes themselves are too dry, the lens won’t “slide” into place easily and may stick stubbornly to your finger. The solution is simple: use lubricating eye drops a minute or two before inserting your contacts. This makes the eye surface moist and receptive. For those with naturally dry eyes, choosing contact lenses with a higher water content can also help improve comfort and ease of insertion.
5. Lack of practice and patience
Finally, the most overlooked factor is simply practice. Inserting contact lenses is a new skill, and like any skill, it requires patience. At first it may take several attempts, but with practice, most wearers can insert lenses in under ten seconds per eye. The key is to stay calm, practice in front of a well-lit mirror, and avoid pressuring yourself too much.
In conclusion, putting in contact lenses isn’t as hard as it seems once you understand the reasons behind the struggle. Fear, technique, lens condition, moisture levels, and practice all play a role. By addressing these points, you’ll quickly find that contacts become easy to insert and wear. And if you still find it difficult, don’t hesitate to ask your optometrist or a trained eyewear professional for guidance. They often have small tips and tricks that can make the process far smoother and help you feel more confident.
