What is necessary to do before handling contact lenses?

Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water is essential before handling contact lenses to ensure cleanliness and prevent the transfer of bacteria or other harmful substances onto the lenses. Proper hand hygiene minimizes the risk of infection and ensures that any contaminants present on your hands do not come into contact with the sensitive eye area or the lenses themselves. It is a fundamental step in maintaining safe and healthy contact lens practices.

While rinsing the lenses, drying hands, or applying lotion may seem relevant, they do not replace the importance of starting with clean hands. Using soap and water effectively removes dirt, oils, and pathogens, making it the best preventive measure before lens handling.