The 15-Day Contact Lens Challenge
What Is the 15-Day Contact Lens Challenge?
The 15-day contact lens challenge gives you two full weeks to experience contact lenses in your daily life. Our eye doctor will fit you with lenses and provide the supplies you need to get started based on your lens type. You will have scheduled check-ins to make sure your eyes are healthy and your vision is clear.
During the trial, you will gradually increase how long you wear your lenses each day. This approach helps your eyes adapt comfortably and lets us track your progress. The number and timing of follow-up visits will depend on your comfort level, prescription complexity such as toric or multifocal lenses, and any ocular surface findings. By the end of 15 days, you will have a clear sense of whether contact lenses fit into your routine.
Most people with healthy eyes and a current prescription can try the 15-day challenge. We may recommend the trial if you are looking for an alternative to glasses or want more freedom during sports and activities. Candidates should be willing to learn proper lens care and follow our instructions for safe wear.
Our eye doctor will review your medical history and examine your eyes before the trial begins. If you have certain eye conditions or take medications that affect tear production, we will discuss whether contacts are appropriate for you. Some conditions may require treatment or stabilization before starting the trial.
- Active red eye or eye infection must be treated first
- Untreated blepharitis or meibomian gland dysfunction may need management
- Significant dry eye or allergy flare should be controlled before lens wear
- Recent eye surgery requires a specific waiting period determined by your doctor
- Irregular cornea or keratoconus may require specialty lenses not included in a standard trial
This trial typically uses soft contact lenses in a variety of designs to match your vision needs and preferences. Daily disposable lenses are discarded after each use, which simplifies care and reduces infection risk. Two-week or monthly lenses require nightly cleaning but can be more cost-effective over time. Specialty lens designs such as rigid gas permeable, hybrid, or scleral lenses may require additional visits and may not be available as trials in all prescriptions.
- Soft lenses for nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism
- Daily disposable lenses for convenience and hygiene
- Two-week or monthly replacement lenses for budget-conscious wearers
- Multifocal lenses for patients who need reading correction
- Toric lenses designed for astigmatism correction
A successful trial means you can wear your lenses comfortably for several hours without redness, pain, or blurry vision. You should feel confident inserting, removing, and caring for your lenses on your own. Clear vision throughout the day and healthy-looking eyes at your follow-up appointments are key signs of success.
Even if the first lens type does not work perfectly, we can adjust the fit or try a different style. Success is finding the right match for your eyes, not just completing the 15 days.
Getting Started: Your Initial Contact Lens Fitting
Before you receive any lenses, our eye doctor will measure the curve and size of your cornea to ensure a proper fit. We use an instrument called a keratometer to measure corneal curvature. In some cases, we may also use corneal topography to map the front surface of your eye in greater detail. These measurements help us choose a lens that moves correctly with each blink and stays centered on your eye.
We will also assess your tear film quality and check for signs of dryness or inflammation. Additional tests may include meibomian gland evaluation, corneal staining, pupil size measurement, and refraction refinement. These baseline tests let us monitor changes during the trial and catch any problems early.
Our staff will teach you how to handle your lenses safely and hygienically. You will practice placing the lens on your fingertip, holding your eyelids open, and gently positioning the lens on your eye. Removal techniques vary slightly depending on lens type, and we will demonstrate the method that works best for you.
- Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before touching lenses, avoiding lotions or oily soaps
- Keep your fingernails short and clean to avoid contaminating or tearing lenses
- Use your dominant hand to place the lens on your eye
- Some people find it easier to look upward or to the side while inserting to reduce blinking
- Pinch soft lenses gently between your thumb and finger to remove them
On day one, we typically recommend wearing your lenses for just two to four hours. This limited schedule gives your eyes time to adjust to the new sensation without becoming strained. You may notice the lenses slightly at first, but this awareness usually fades as your eyes adapt.
After removing your lenses, take note of how your eyes feel and look. Some mild redness or awareness can occur initially, but do not push through pain, persistent discomfort, or blurry vision. If your vision remains unclear during the adaptation period, avoid driving or performing tasks that require sharp eyesight until you can see comfortably.
Your trial kit includes the supplies you need to care for your lenses safely during the 15-day period. We provide a supply of contact lenses for the trial, and kit contents vary based on whether you are using daily disposables or reusable lenses. You will also receive written instructions with care steps and our office contact information.
- A trial supply of lenses in your prescription for 15 days
- A sterile contact lens case if you are using reusable lenses
- Travel-size or full-size multipurpose solution for reusable lenses
- Printed care and safety guidelines
Caring for Your Contact Lenses During the Trial
If you are using reusable lenses, you must clean and disinfect them every time you remove them. Place the lens in the palm of your hand, apply a few drops of solution, and gently rub the lens with your fingertip. Rinse the lens with fresh solution before storing it in your case. Follow the instructions provided with your lenses and solution for the recommended rub time, rinse duration, and minimum soak time.
Never skip the rubbing step, even if your solution is labeled as a no-rub formula. This mechanical cleaning removes protein deposits and debris that can cause irritation or infection. Always discard your lenses on the recommended replacement schedule, and never extend the replacement interval during the trial.
We may recommend a specific multipurpose solution that is compatible with your lens material. Multipurpose solutions clean, rinse, disinfect, and store lenses in one bottle. Some patients with sensitive eyes need preservative-free or hydrogen peroxide-based systems.
If you are using a hydrogen peroxide disinfection system, you must use the special case that comes with it and allow the full neutralization time before inserting your lenses. Never put hydrogen peroxide solution directly in your eye, as it will cause severe pain and damage. Do not rinse lenses with peroxide unless the system instructions specifically direct you to do so.
Always use the solution brand we suggest, especially during the trial. Switching products without guidance can lead to discomfort or damage to your lenses. If you need rewetting drops while wearing your lenses, use preservative-free lubricating drops that are labeled safe for contact lenses. Avoid redness relief drops unless our eye doctor specifically recommends them.
Store your lenses in a clean case filled with fresh solution every night. Never top off old solution, as this dilutes the disinfecting agents and allows bacteria to grow. Make sure the lenses are fully submerged and the case is tightly closed.
- Fill the case with fresh solution before placing lenses inside
- Let lenses soak for at least the minimum time listed on your solution instructions to disinfect properly
- Keep the case on a clean, dry surface away from the sink
- Never reuse old solution from the bottle cap or case, and do not rinse lenses or the case with water
Tap water, distilled water, and saliva all contain microorganisms that can cause serious eye infections. Never rinse your lenses with water or store them in water-based solutions not designed for contacts. Even showering or swimming while wearing lenses can introduce harmful bacteria.
If you need to rinse your lens unexpectedly, use only sterile contact lens solution. Carry a small travel bottle with you to avoid the temptation of using water in an emergency. If water accidentally contacts your lenses, remove them as soon as possible. Discard daily disposable lenses immediately. For reusable lenses, clean and disinfect them thoroughly according to instructions. Monitor your eyes closely for pain, redness, light sensitivity, or blurred vision, and seek same-day eye care if any symptoms occur.
Lens cases can harbor bacteria even with daily cleaning. We recommend replacing your case at least every one to three months, or sooner if it becomes cracked or discolored. Replace your case immediately after any eye infection. During your 15-day trial, the case we provide should last the entire period if you care for it properly each day.
After emptying the case each morning, rub and rinse it with fresh contact lens solution, wipe away excess solution, and place it face down on a clean, dry surface or paper towel to air dry. Keep the case away from the sink area, and never use water to clean the case.
Proper hygiene goes beyond cleaning your lenses and case. Certain daily habits can reduce your risk of irritation and infection during the trial. Always wash your hands with a mild, non-oily soap and dry them with a lint-free towel before handling your lenses. Avoid using hand sanitizer immediately before touching lenses, as residue can transfer to the lens surface.
- Insert your lenses before applying makeup, and remove lenses before removing makeup
- Avoid placing eyeliner or other cosmetics on the inner rim of your eyelid near the lashes
- Replace eye makeup regularly and discard any products that may be contaminated
- Avoid cosmetics with glitter or loose particles that can get under lenses
- Do not share your contact lenses with anyone, even in an emergency
- Never reuse daily disposable lenses or wear lenses beyond their replacement schedule
What to Expect During Your 15-Day Trial Period
Many new wearers notice a mild foreign-body sensation or slight awareness of the lens edge during the first few days. Your eyes may produce extra tears as they adjust, and you might blink more frequently than usual. These sensations typically decrease each day as your cornea becomes accustomed to the lens.
Some people also experience slightly fluctuating vision as their tear film stabilizes on the lens surface. Mild, brief discomfort can occur during adaptation, but increasing redness, pain, light sensitivity, discharge, or reduced vision is not normal and requires prompt evaluation. If early symptoms do not improve after three to four days, contact our office for a check-in.
After your first few hours on day one, you can add one to two hours each day as long as your eyes feel comfortable. By the end of the first week, most patients can wear their lenses for eight hours or more. Listen to your body and remove the lenses if you feel dryness or irritation before your planned time. Do not push through discomfort to meet a wearing-time goal, as maximum daily hours are individualized based on lens material, your ocular surface health, and our eye doctor's guidance.
- Day one: two to four hours
- Days two to three: four to six hours
- Days four to seven: six to eight hours
- Days eight to fifteen: eight to twelve hours, based on comfort and doctor recommendations
Around day seven or eight, we will schedule a brief check-in to examine your eyes and assess lens fit. Our eye doctor will look for signs of oxygen deprivation, corneal swelling, or irritation. We will also confirm that the lenses are moving properly with each blink.
This appointment is your chance to ask questions, report any concerns, and make adjustments if needed. If your lenses are not meeting your expectations, we can switch you to a different type before the trial ends.
Keep a simple log of your daily wearing time, comfort level, and vision clarity. Note any activities that cause discomfort, such as reading on a screen for long periods or being in dry, air-conditioned rooms. This information helps our eye doctor fine-tune your lens choice and care routine.
Rate your comfort on a scale of one to ten each evening, and jot down any symptoms like dryness, redness, or blurry patches. Patterns in your notes can reveal whether you need a different lens material or wearing schedule.
If your first lens selection is not comfortable or does not provide clear vision, we can switch you to another brand or material during the trial. Modern contact lens fitting for patients with dry eyes or discomfort often focuses on daily disposable lenses, silicone hydrogel materials with better oxygen transmission, advanced surface treatments, optimized lens design and edge profiles, and managing any underlying dry eye or blepharitis. Some patients need toric or multifocal lenses for astigmatism or presbyopia.
Switching lenses mid-trial is common and does not mean the challenge has failed. Our goal is to find the right fit, even if it takes a few tries.
There are certain times when you should remove your lenses or avoid wearing them altogether until symptoms resolve. If you develop a cold, upper respiratory infection, or significant allergy symptoms, check with our office before continuing lens wear. Active redness, tearing, or discharge means you should stop wearing lenses until our eye doctor evaluates your eyes and clears you to resume.
If you feel unwell or your eyes are not comfortable, give yourself permission to take a break and wear your glasses instead. Contact lens wear should enhance your life, not cause stress or risk to your eye health.
Warning Signs and When to Remove Your Lenses
Mild, brief redness after removing your lenses can occur in the first few days as your eyes adjust, but it should clear within an hour or two. If your eyes remain red for several hours or the redness gets worse each day, remove your lenses and contact our office. Persistent redness can signal an allergic reaction, poor lens fit, or an infection starting.
Do not insert your lenses again until our eye doctor examines your eyes. Wearing contacts over inflamed tissue can worsen the problem and delay healing.
Contact lenses should never cause sharp, stabbing pain. If you feel sudden pain, remove the lens immediately and inspect it for tears, debris, or particles stuck to the surface. Rinse the lens with solution if it looks intact, but do not reinsert it if the pain returns.
Pain can indicate a corneal abrasion, a foreign object under the lens, or a lens that is inside out. Call our office the same day so we can rule out serious injury.
Occasional mild blur is normal when your eyes are dry or tired, but sudden or persistent blurry vision needs attention. Halos around lights, especially at night, can mean the lens is not centered properly or your prescription needs adjustment. Remove your lenses and see if your vision clears.
If blurry vision continues even after removing the lenses, or if you see flashes of light, contact our office right away. These symptoms can indicate corneal swelling or other complications.
A small amount of tearing is expected as your eyes adjust, but heavy tearing or mucus discharge suggests irritation or infection. Yellow or green discharge, especially when paired with redness, is a warning sign that bacteria may be present. Stop wearing your lenses and reach out to our office immediately.
- Clear, watery tears in the first few days are usually harmless
- Thick, colored discharge requires prompt medical evaluation
- Tearing that lasts all day may mean the lens fit is too tight
If you become more sensitive to light than usual or notice puffiness around your eyelids, remove your lenses and give your eyes a rest. Light sensitivity can be an early sign of inflammation or infection. Swelling may indicate an allergic reaction to the lens material or solution.
Apply a cool, damp cloth to closed eyelids if swelling is mild, but do not wear your lenses again until we have evaluated your eyes. We may need to switch you to a different lens type or solution.
Urgent Symptoms That Require Immediate Care
Contact lens wearers are at risk for serious eye infections such as microbial keratitis, which is a corneal infection that can threaten vision if not treated promptly. The classic warning signs are eye pain, sensitivity to light, and decreased vision, often occurring together. You may also notice redness, discharge, or a feeling that something is stuck in your eye.
If you experience this combination of symptoms, stop wearing your lenses immediately and seek same-day evaluation by our eye doctor or visit an emergency department if our office is not available. Bring your lenses, lens case, and solution bottle to the appointment, as these may need to be tested. Do not tape or patch the affected eye, as this can worsen an infection.
Certain symptoms require urgent evaluation and should not wait for a regular appointment. If you experience any of the following, contact our office immediately. If we are unavailable, seek care at an emergency department or contact an on-call eye specialist, as these conditions may require slit-lamp examination and specialized testing.
- Intense pain that does not stop after removing lenses
- Sudden loss of vision or large blind spots
- Heavy discharge or pus from the eye
- Significant eye injury or chemical exposure while wearing or handling lenses
Frequently Asked Questions
Most lenses provided during the trial are designed for daily wear only and must be removed before sleep. Sleeping in non-approved lenses greatly increases the risk of serious infections and corneal damage. Even with lenses that are approved for extended wear, sleeping in contacts increases infection risk and requires explicit prescribing by our eye doctor along with closer follow-up monitoring. If you are interested in extended-wear lenses that can be worn overnight, discuss this with our eye doctor after the trial.
If you lose or damage a lens, contact our office as soon as possible. We often have spare trial lenses available and can provide a replacement so you can continue the challenge without interruption. Make sure to bring your lens prescription details and let us know which eye needs a new lens.
Yes, we offer toric lenses for astigmatism and multifocal lenses for patients who need both distance and near correction. These specialty lenses may take a bit longer to fit perfectly, but many people with astigmatism or presbyopia wear contacts successfully. During your trial, we will determine the best lens design for your prescription.
Policies vary by practice, so we will explain any trial fees or charges before you begin. In many cases, the trial period is offered at a reduced cost or included as part of your contact lens evaluation fee. If contacts do not work out, you will not be obligated to purchase a full supply.
Daily disposable lenses offer maximum convenience and hygiene because you throw them away after each use, eliminating the need for cleaning solutions and cases. Monthly lenses require nightly care but can cost less over time if you wear contacts regularly. Consider your lifestyle, budget, and willingness to follow a care routine when making your choice, and our eye doctor can help you weigh the pros and cons.
If you feel a foreign object or irritation while wearing your lenses, remove the lens immediately. Rinse your eye gently with sterile saline or preservative-free artificial tears to flush out any debris. Inspect the lens for damage or particles, and clean it with solution if needed. Do not reinsert the lens until your eye feels completely comfortable and your vision is clear. If you continue to experience pain, light sensitivity, or blurred vision after removing the lens, contact our office for an evaluation.
Getting Help with the 15-Day Contact Lens Challenge
If you have questions or concerns at any point during your trial, our office is here to support you. We want your contact lens experience to be safe, comfortable, and successful, so do not hesitate to reach out for guidance or schedule an extra visit if needed. If warning signs occur such as pain, redness, light sensitivity, or vision changes, remove your lenses immediately and seek prompt evaluation. Do not restart lens wear until our eye doctor has examined your eyes and cleared you to continue.