How To Put In Contact Lenses With Long Nails

Long nails are a vibe – bold, beautiful and maybe a little bit … impractical – when it comes to fiddly tasks, anyway. If you’ve ever tried to put in contact lenses with your nails looking flawless, you already know the struggle is real. One false move and suddenly you’re poking, not placing. Or worse – scratching your eye (ouch).

But don’t worry – whether you’re a fan of natural talons or gel extensions, you can wear contact lenses without any drama. All it takes is the right technique, a little patience – and maybe a few nifty tricks up your (manicured) sleeve.

Here’s your no-stress guide on how to put in contact lenses with long nails, without breaking a nail – or your confidence.

1. Keep it clean

First things first: hygiene. Long nails can harbour more bacteria, so wash your hands thoroughly, making sure to clean under your nails. Dry with a lint-free towel – fluff and fibres don’t belong in your eyes.

Pro tip: keep a soft nail brush by your sink to scrub under your nails before handling lenses. Your eyes will thank you.

2. Use the pad, not the tip

This is the golden rule. Instead of trying to place the lens with the tip of your finger (a common culprit for pokes and flops), use the pad or flat part of your index finger. You’ll get more control and less chance of jabbing yourself – or losing the lens mid-air.

How to do it:

• Place the lens on the centre of your fingertip pad, not the pointy end.

• Make sure it forms a perfect little bowl – edges up, not flared out. Daysoft daily disposable contact lenses are ideal for this. Even though they’re ultra-thin, our lenses are always located in the blister pack in the same way. This means they’re never folded, thanks to our innovative INPAC technology. All you need to do is ‘scoop’ them onto the soft tip of your finger for confident handling and easy onto-eye insertion, every time.

3. Try the pinch-press method (for insertion)

This one’s a total game-changer for long-nailed lens wearers. Here’s how to do it without poking, prodding or panicking:

1. Use the pad, not the nail. Gently rest the contact lens on the soft, fleshy part of your fingertip – not the nail. Press lightly to keep it steady.

2. Get a good angle. Tilt your head back and bring your hand over your face for control. This helps keep the lens on course.

3. Steady those lids. Use your other hand to gently hold your upper eyelid in place. (Blinking mid-mission is how lenses go rogue.)

4. Place and blink. Look up slightly and pop the lens onto the white of your eye. Close your eye slowly and let it settle into place. Ta-da! You’re in.

Remember: gentle is the name of the game. Your eyes are sensitive, and you want them happy, hydrated and looking fabulous.

4. Remove with style (and safety)

Long nails and contact removal can feel like a high-stakes operation – but not with this easy pinch-pull technique:

1. Slide, don’t scrape. Look up and use the pad of your finger to gently slide the lens down to the lower part of your eye. This gets it out of the danger zone.

2. Pinch with pads. Once the lens is in position, use the soft pads of your thumb and index finger to lightly pinch and remove it. Nails stay far, far away from your eyeball.

5. Consider a lens applicator

If the pad method just isn’t cutting it, try a contact lens applicator tool. These soft silicone devices can hold the lens and help you place it with precision – no fingers (or nails) near your eye. They’re especially handy if your nails have some serious length.

Nail it: tips for contact lens-friendly manicures

Yes, long nails look fabulous, and if you wear contacts, they need to work just as well as they wow. Here’s how to keep both your mani and your lenses in top condition (and avoid any accidental pokes to the eyeball):

Shape matters 

Rounded tips like almond or oval are your new besties. They’re gentler, easier to manage and way less likely to scratch your eye or tear a lens compared to sharp stiletto styles.

File regularly

Keep edges smooth and snag-free. Jagged nails are contact lens kryptonite – trust us.

Get creative, carefully 

Love a little nail art? Go for it – but skip bulky rhinestones or 3D designs on your index fingers (the fingers that do the lens lifting). Stick to flatter, matte finishes for better grip and control.

Why daily disposables are a long-nail lover’s best friend

Wearing contacts with long nails doesn’t have to be a juggling act – especially when you’ve got daily disposables on your side. Here are six reasons to opt for daysoft:

1. Less handling, less hassle: no nightly cleaning rituals or fiddly storage cases – just in, out, bin, done.

2. Fresh pair every day: no build-up, no bacteria. A new lens each day means you’re always starting with a clean slate – great news if you’re worried about infections from sneaky nail germs. Read about why daysoft daily disposable lenses are the safest, most hygienic choice.

3. Faster routine: dailies cut your lens routine in half. Perfect for those who’ve already spent enough time on their nails.

4. Reduced risk of damage: since you’re not reusing lenses, there’s less wear and tear – so if a long nail does catch one, no biggie. You’ll have a fresh pair tomorrow.

5. Gentler on eyes: daysoft daily disposables are more breathable, making them comfier for sensitive eyes (and less likely to irritate after a slip of the nail).

6. Travel- and purse-friendly: no bulky bottles or cases. Just toss a couple of packs in your bag and go – hello, low-maintenance luxury (and more cash to spend on your next mani).

Yes, you can have it all

Mani on point and lenses in? Long nails don’t have to limit your lens game. With a few pro techniques and a little practice, popping in your contacts can be as easy as swiping on mascara. Just remember: keep it clean, be gentle and never rush. Your eyes are as precious as your style!

Want lenses that are as fuss-free as your look? Try daysoft’s daily disposable contact lenses, delivered to your door, ultra-comfy and easy to handle. Shop now and keep your eyes – and nails – looking fabulous.