How to Tell If Your Contact Lenses Are Inside Out

Putting in contact lenses can be tricky, especially when you're not sure if the lens is right side out. Wearing an inside-out lens can cause discomfort, blurry vision, and even lens damage. Fortunately, there are simple ways to check contact lens orientation before insertion.

In this guide, we'll walk you through three foolproof methods to tell if your lens is inside out, along with tips to make the process smoother. Whether you're new to contacts or a seasoned wearer, mastering this skill is essential for a comfortable wearing experience.

Why Does Contact Lens Orientation Matter?

Wearing a contact lens inside out is a common mistake, especially for beginners. When a lens is inverted, its edges may not sit properly on your eye, leading to irritation, redness, and a feeling that something is stuck in your eye. The lens may also move around more, causing blurry vision.

In some cases, an inside-out lens can even fold or tear when you try to blink, making it difficult to remove. That's why it's crucial to check the orientation every time you insert your lenses. Fortunately, most modern lenses, like the ones from our collection, are designed with a visible edge that makes the check easier.

• Discomfort and irritation are the most common signs of an inside-out lens.
• Blurry vision can occur because the lens doesn't sit correctly on the cornea.
• Frequent blinking or lens movement may indicate incorrect orientation.

The Taco Test: The Most Reliable Method

The taco test is the go-to method for checking contact lens orientation. Place the lens on your fingertip and gently squeeze the edges together, as if you were folding a taco. If the edges point upward like a bowl, the lens is in the correct position. If the edges fold outward and look like a volcano, the lens is inside out.

This method works for most soft contact lenses, including daily disposables like the NOELLE HAZEL 1 DAY and SCARLETT OLIVE 1 DAY. With a little practice, you can quickly determine the orientation in seconds.

• Place the lens on your index finger.
• Gently press the edges together.
• If the edges curl inward, it's right side out; if they flare outward, it's inside out.

The Edge Check: Look for the Blue Tint

Many contact lenses have a subtle blue tint on the edge to make them easier to handle. When the lens is right side out, the edge appears as a smooth, rounded curve. If it's inside out, the edge may look flared or uneven, and the tint might appear more prominent on the bottom.

Hold the lens up to a light source and examine the rim. A properly oriented lens will have a gentle U-shape, while an inside-out lens will have a flatter edge with a slight lip. This method is especially helpful for lenses with a visible edge, like the WC-590 YOUNGLOVE GREY or WC-527 LAVENDER GREY.

• Look for the edge's curve: a smooth U-shape is correct, a flared shape indicates inside out.
• Use a bright light to see the lens clearly.
• Practice with colored lenses to spot the difference easily.

The Lens Case Method: A Quick Trick

If you're still unsure, you can use your lens case as a reference. Place the lens on the tip of your finger and hold it next to the case. A correctly oriented lens will have the same curve as the case's dome. If the lens appears flatter or wider, it's likely inside out.

This method is particularly useful when you're in a hurry and don't have time to do the taco test. With daily lenses like WC-535 WOOD CORAL HAZEL, you can quickly compare the shape before insertion.

• Hold the lens next to the case's dome to compare curves.
• If the lens looks flatter, flip it over.
• This method works best with soft lenses that hold their shape.

What to Do If You Accidentally Insert an Inside-Out Lens

If you realize your lens is inside out after insertion, don't panic. Wash your hands thoroughly, remove the lens carefully, and rinse it with contact lens solution. Then, check the orientation using the taco test and reinsert it.

If you experience persistent discomfort or redness, remove the lens and give your eyes a break. It's also a good idea to have a spare pair of lenses, like the WCX-501 AVALINE BLUE, on hand in case you damage a lens during the process.

• Always wash your hands before removing or inserting lenses.
• Rinse the lens with fresh solution after removal.
• If discomfort persists, switch to a new lens.

Checking your contact lens orientation is a simple skill that prevents discomfort and ensures clear vision. Whether you use the taco test, edge check, or lens case method, taking a few seconds to verify can save you from a frustrating experience. If you're looking for new lenses, explore our range of comfortable and stylish options, like the WC-590 YOUNGLOVE GREY, to upgrade your wearing experience.