How to Properly Care for Rigid Gas Permeable Contact Lenses

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) contact lenses offer excellent vision correction, durability, and breathability for long-term eye health. Unlike soft lenses, RGP lenses are made of firm, oxygen-permeable materials that require special care to maintain comfort and clarity. If you’re new to wearing RGP lenses—or need a refresher on how to care for them—this guide will walk you through the best practices.

Always Wash Your Hands First

Before handling your lenses, thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water. Avoid moisturizing soaps, as they can leave residues that may transfer to the lens surface and irritate your eyes. Dry your hands with a lint-free towel to prevent fibers from sticking to your lenses.
 

Use the Right Cleaning Solution

RGP lenses must be cleaned with solutions specifically designed for them—never use water, saliva, or standard soft lens solutions. There are two types of products used for care:

• Daily Cleaner: Gently rub the lenses with a few drops of daily cleaner in the palm of your hand to remove debris and protein buildup.

• Conditioning/Storage Solution: After cleaning, rinse the lenses with a saline or multipurpose solution and store them in a conditioning solution overnight to disinfect and maintain comfort.
   

Avoid using tap water to rinse or store your lenses, as it can introduce harmful microorganisms.
 

Follow a Consistent Cleaning Routine

Clean your lenses every time you remove them, and follow the instructions provided with your cleaning solutions. Even if you don’t wear your lenses every day, they should still be cleaned and stored properly to ensure they remain safe for your next use.
 

Bacteria can grow in your lens case if it's not cleaned properly. Rinse it daily with sterile solution (not tap water) and allow it to air dry. Replace your case every 1 to 3 months to minimize the risk of contamination.
 

Don’t Ignore Discomfort

If your RGP lenses feel uncomfortable or your vision becomes cloudy, remove them and inspect for debris or damage. If cleaning doesn’t solve the problem, or you experience redness, irritation, or discharge, schedule an appointment with your eye care provider. These could be signs of an eye infection or an issue with your lens fit.
 

Maintain Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are a vital part of maintaining overall eye health and ensuring clear, comfortable vision. Even if your eyesight seems fine, comprehensive eye exams can detect early signs of conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, cataracts, and diabetic eye disease—many of which may not present noticeable symptoms in the early stages. For contact lens wearers, routine check-ups help ensure that lenses are fitting properly, your eyes remain healthy, and your prescription is up to date. We recommend annual eye exams to monitor changes, prevent complications, and support lifelong visual wellness.
 

Achieve Clear & Healthy Vision at Cobb Corner Eye Care

Proper care is essential for maintaining the performance, comfort, and safety of your Rigid Gas Permeable contact lenses. With consistent cleaning, proper handling, and regular check-ups, you can enjoy clear vision and healthy eyes for years to come.
 

Whether you're new to RGP lenses or need a refresher on lens care, the team at Cobb Corner Eye Care is here to help. Schedule an appointment today to ensure your contact lenses are fitting properly and supporting your long-term eye health. Visit our office in Stoughton, Massachusetts, or call (781) 344-3335 today.