Putting contact lenses in small eyes might sound like a battle of patience vs. blinking, but it doesn’t have to be. If you’ve found yourself saying, “I can’t open my eyes wide enough for contacts,” trust us, you’re not alone, and you’re not doing anything wrong.
At Fresh Lens, we know eye shape plays a huge role in lens comfort and application. That is why we are here with a detailed, relatable, and practical guide to help you get it right (without the stress). If you are looking for an easy way to put in contacts for small eyes, this guide is your new best friend.
Step 1: Prepare Your Hands and Space
Before you even touch your lenses, set yourself up:
- Choose a well-lit mirror (a magnifying mirror can help)
- Wash hands with oil-free, scent-free soap
- Dry them with a lint-free towel
- Keep your contact lens case or blister packs nearby
Pro Tip: Slightly damp fingertips can help prevent lenses from sticking too much or slipping off too fast.
If you are using daily lenses, this step is even easier—just peel and go. For reusable lenses, make sure they are soaked in fresh contact lens solution.
Step 2: Handle the Lens Correctly
Take one lens out and place it on the tip of your dominant index finger.
It should look like a bowl, not a saucer. If the edges flare out, it is inside out.
Need help checking lens orientation? This guide walks you through how to handle contacts without frustration.
Step 3: Insert the Lens (Small-Eye Friendly Method)
Here’s the part that trips up most people with smaller eyes.
Try this eye-opening combo:
- Use your non-dominant hand to lift your upper eyelid
- Use the middle finger of your dominant hand to pull the lower lid down
- Look slightly up and out, not straight ahead
- Gently place the lens on the lower part of your eye
Don’t blink too fast! Close your eyes slowly, then blink a few times to center the lens.
Lenses like Acuvue Oasys 1-Day or Dailies Total1 are ultra-soft and easy to insert—even for smaller eyes.
These brands are known for their flexibility and soft design, making them easier to apply even if you feel your eyes are too small for contacts.
Step 4: Repeat and Check Comfort
Once the first lens is in:
- Check for any discomfort or blurry vision
- Make sure the lens is centered by looking side to side
- Repeat the process with the other eye, always starting with the same one
Consistency helps avoid mix-ups, especially if your lenses have different prescriptions.
Struggling with discomfort? Read this article on common fit issues and how to resolve them.
Tips If You’re Still Struggling with Insertion
- Choose smaller diameter lenses (your optometrist can guide you)
- Practice blinking control—blinking too early is a common barrier
- Use a handheld mirror and rest your elbow on a flat surface for steadiness
- Try a different brand—softer lenses are often easier to handle
Recommended options from Fresh Lens:
- Dailies Colors – Comfortable and visually striking
- Air Optix HydraGlyde – Breathable monthly lenses with soft edges
How do I get contacts in small eyes without irritation? Stick to lenses designed for sensitive wearers and stay patient; it’s a skill you’ll build with time.
How to Remove Contact Lenses
Removing lenses is often easier than putting them in, but small eyes can still make things tricky.
1. Wash your hands and prep the area
Cover your sink or plug the drain just in case.
2. Use both hands for stability
Use your non-dominant hand to hold your eye open. Then use your dominant thumb and index finger to pinch the lens and slide it out.
3. Clean and store (for reusable lenses only)
Use a clean palm and fresh solution to rub and rinse the lens gently. Store in a sterile case.
Prefer zero maintenance? Go with daily contact lenses.
Caring for Your Lenses: Quick Tips
- Never use water or saliva to clean lenses
- Replace your lens case every 3 months
- Use a fresh solution every time
- Keep up with regular eye exams
Fresh Lens even offers an online vision test that delivers results in under 2 hours.
What Lenses Work Best for Small Eyes?
Here are Fresh Lens, approved lenses that are easier to insert, especially for those with smaller eyes:
|
Lens Type |
Why It’s Great |
|
Acuvue Oasys 1-Day |
Smooth edges, Class I UV protection |
|
Dailies Total1 |
Water-gradient technology = softest insertion |
|
Air Optix Colors |
Thicker material for easier handling |
Need help deciding? Check out Which Contact Lens Brand Is the Best
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let Small Eyes Stop You
We know the struggle. But once you learn the right insertion angle, find the perfect lens, and build a routine, you'll forget size was ever a factor.
Still worried about the application? Our tip-packed blog on Contact Not Sticking to the Eye is what you need.
Explore Fresh Lens’s full collection of ultra-comfortable, small-eye–friendly contact lenses today and make blurry mornings a thing of the past.
This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult your optometrist for personalized advice.
If you want to learn more, why not check out these articles below:
- Contact Not Sticking to the Eye
- How to Insert Toric Contact Lenses
- Contact Lens Sticking to My Finger
- Eye Makeup Before or After Contacts
- How to Put in Contact Lenses with Eyelash Extensions
- How to Read Contact Prescription
- Can You Wear Colored Contacts Over Prescription Contacts
- Is Your Contact Prescription the Same as Your Glasses?
- Can You Wear Prescription Sunglasses with Contacts?
- Are Contact Lens Prescriptions Brand Specific?
- How Much Are Contact Lenses?
- Best Place to Buy Contact Lenses
- Can You Return Contact Lenses?
- Best Contact Lens Solution
- Can I Leave My Contact Lenses Without Solution?
