Abstract: An applicator for contact lenses. A stem having a bore is provided with a flexible neoprene cap or sleeve on the end of the stem, the cap having an end wall forming a diaphragm which is configurated to have the convex side of a wet contact lens placed against it to be held by surface tension. Within the bore of the stem is a manually actuatable plunger. An opening is provided in the side wall of the stem. The lens carried at the end of the applicator can be placed adjacent the eyeball. By manually pushing in the stem, pressure is developed behind the diaphragm holding the lens to deform it and release the contact lens against the eyeball.