Lenses are completely safe as long as they are prescribed by a qualified practitioner, and as long as the wearer follows the practitioner's instructions for looking after them, returns for regular aftercare visits and seeks advice for any problems they experience.

Your eyes are sensitive and delicate structures, so hygiene is important to ensure you don't suffer from any eye infections.

If you have health problems such as allergies, or take any medication, you'll need to tell your practitioner who will then advise you about how this affects your lens wear.

If you experience any discomfort, redness or watering of the eyes while wearing lenses, take them out and try not to resume wear until the symptoms subside.

If the symptoms persist or get worse see your optician urgently.