Do Contact Lenses Get Harder to Put In Over Time?

For many people, contact lenses become an easy part of the daily rhythm. But if you’ve recently noticed that inserting your contacts feels more difficult than it used to, you’re not imagining things. While your contact lenses themselves don’t technically get harder to put in over time, changes in your eyes, your lenses, and your habits can make the process less smooth than it once was.

Your Lenses Are Past Their Replacement Schedule

Even the best lenses have an expiration date. As they age, deposits from natural tear film - proteins, oils, debris - build up on their surface. This can cause lenses to feel:

• Less smooth

• More prone to folding

• Less breathable

• Irritating when they touch the eye

Worn-out lenses can make insertion uncomfortable and sometimes cause the lens to "stick" to your finger rather than your eye.

Your Prescription Has Changed

If your vision has shifted, your current lenses might not settle as easily. Small prescription changes can affect how the lens sits on your cornea, which can make insertion feel awkward. This is one reason regular contact lens exams are essential - they ensure you’re wearing the correct prescription and the right lens design for your visual needs.

Dry Eyes Are Getting in the Way

Dry eyes can make the lens feel like it’s fighting against your eyelid or refusing to sit comfortably on your eye. Common causes include:

• Increased screen time

• Aging

• Certain medications

• Environmental factors like air conditioning

A dry eye evaluation may be necessary if dryness is preventing smooth lens insertion.

Your Lens Fit Is No Longer Right

Eyes change shape subtly over time. Lenses that once fit perfectly may now feel loose, tight, or unstable. A poor fit won’t only make insertion difficult - it can also cause discomfort and blurred vision throughout the day.

Signs You Need a New Pair of Contacts

If inserting your lenses isn’t the only thing that feels off, you may be due for replacement. Watch for:

• Lenses that feel “gritty” or uncomfortable

• Blurry or fluctuating vision

• Redness or irritation after insertion

• Lenses that won’t stay centered

• Excessive tearing

• A feeling like something is stuck under the lens

These can indicate that your lenses are worn out, damaged, or overdue for your regular replacement cycle. Regular contact lens exams at Downtown Vision help catch these issues early so you can continue wearing contacts comfortably and safely.

Refresh Your Contact Lens Prescription

Contact lenses shouldn’t become harder to insert as a rule, but your eyes and your lenses change over time. If you’re struggling with insertion, experiencing discomfort, or noticing changes in your vision, it may be time to replace your lenses or schedule a contact lens exam at Downtown Vision.

Schedule your contact lens exam at Downtown Vision and let us make sure your lenses are performing at their best. Please call our Reno office at (775) 322-4061 or our Carson City office at  (775) 883-3977 to book an appointment today.