Abstract: A contact lens applicator is used in inserting a contact lens into an eye. The applicator includes a stem with a finger mount on one end for mounting the applicator on a finger, and a contact lens retainer on the other end. In use the contact lens applicator is secured on the finger of the person adjacent the fingertip by the finger mount and a contact lens is placed on the contact lens retainer. The contact lens is oriented on the retainer transverse to and offset from the finger tip. The retainer holds the contact lens in place as the finger is moved into a substantially horizontal position with the contact lens positioned forward of the fingertip and oriented vertically. This allows the contact lens to be inserted into the eye easily and without tilting the head downwards. It enables a person to hold the top and bottom eyelids open using the fingers of both hands.