How to Choose Colored Contact Lenses
Choosing the Right Contacts for Safety and Style
You already know how to choose the perfect shoes, belts and bags to match your outfits. But do you know how to choose colored contacts that coordinate with your look—while also being safe for your eyes?
While colored contact lenses are a fun way to shake up your style, they’re also medical devices requiring an eye doctor’s prescription—even if you don’t need vision correction.
The Visionworks team lays out everything you need to know about wearing contact lenses and how to choose the best colored contacts for your new look.
Requirements for Getting Colored Contact Lenses
Getting colored contacts isn’t as easy as walking into the store and grabbing a pack off the shelf. Let’s look at the requirements.
Can you get colored prescription contacts with 20/20 vision?
Yes, you can. Many people are surprised to learn that colored contact lenses require a prescription from an eye doctor—even if they don’t need vision correction. By definition, contact lenses are medical devices that must be professionally fitted and prescribed by a licensed eye doctor. Contact lenses can damage the eyes if they’re not correctly fitted and prescribed for a specific wearer.
Never buy costume lenses from an unlicensed source or share contacts with someone else.
How can you get a prescription for colored contacts?
To obtain a prescription for colored contacts, schedule an eye exam with an optometrist. The doctor can assess your vision and eye health and help you determine which contacts are right for you. After the exam, the optometrist provides a prescription specifying the type and specifications of the contacts needed.
Can anyone get colored contacts?
Yes, you can, so don't be discouraged if you have 20/20 vision and want to change your eye color. Non-corrective colored contacts, also called “plano” contact lenses, are ideal for those who want to change their eye color without vision correction. Ask your optometrist about them. For those who do need vision correction, it’s simple to order corrective lenses with the desired tint.
Make Sure You are Ready for the Responsibility of Contacts
Colored contacts are fun. After all, it’s exciting to experiment with new looks and styles. However, contact lenses are more than a fashion accessory. Ensure you’re ready for the responsibility of contacts, especially if you don’t need them for vision correction.
Learn What to Expect
Before browsing the different lens hues available, ensure you know what to expect when wearing contact lenses for the first time. Like anything new, there’s an adjustment period.
Contact lenses can feel weird during the first few wears—and taking them in and out can be challenging. While it can be fun to change your eye color, contacts aren’t the right choice for everyone.
How to Keep Your Contacts Clean
When purchasing a new outfit, it’s essential to read the directions for care and determine if you’re up for the task. Wash on the cold cycle? Easy! Dry clean only? Not so much. Just like your favorite clothes, you must know how to properly clean contacts. Improper care could result in eye irritation or even an infection.
You’ll also need to learn how to use makeup properly while wearing your new colored contacts.
Understanding Your Role in Contact Care
While wearing colored contact lenses is an easy way to change your look, you’ll still need to care for them to maintain healthy eyes and clear vision. Here’s what you should know:
What it Feels Like to Wear New Contacts
If you’re wearing contact lenses for the first time, your eyes might feel dry or watery or your vision may become blurry. If your lenses were professionally fitted, these issues typically resolve within a week or two. In the meantime, frequent blinking and using eye drops can help alleviate these symptoms.
Learn How to Clean Your Contacts
Always use a sterile solution specifically formulated for contact lenses. Gently rub and rinse your contacts in the solution after each use to maintain lens integrity and prevent bacteria buildup, which can cause infection.
Learn how to Store Your Contacts
Store lenses in a clean lens case filled with fresh contact lens solution. Never reuse old solutions, and replace your lens case every three months to reduce the risk of contamination.
Types of Colored Contacts
Colored contact lenses come in two primary types, each suited to different cosmetic needs and preferences.
Enhancement Lens Tints
These semi-transparent tints deepen and intensify your natural eye color, not change it. Enhancement tints are ideal for light-colored eyes and offer a natural, understated way to temporarily modify your eye color.
Opaque Lens Tints
Opaque tints deliver a striking look, entirely masking your natural eye color with vibrant new hues. They’re available in a broad spectrum of colors, from classic blues, greens and browns to exotic violets, amethysts and greys. You can wear these lenses whether you have light or dark eyes. If you want a bold and daring new look, go with opaque contact lenses.
How to Choose Colored Contacts for Your New Look
Choosing the right colored contacts can dramatically change your appearance. Here’s how to select the best pair for your new look:
- Consider your natural eye color: If your eyes are light-colored, you may only need enhancement tints to intensify the natural color. On the other hand, opaque tints are the better option for dark eyes since they completely change their color.
- Think about the occasion: Decide whether you want a subtle change for everyday wear or a dramatic look for special occasions.
- Consult a professional: Always consult an eye care professional who can fit you with the contacts best suited for your eyes.
- Safety first: Purchase contacts from reputable sources to ensure they meet safety standards, even if they're just for cosmetic use.
Colored Contacts Cautions
When using colored contacts, avoid these mistakes to keep your eyes healthy:
- Never share lenses: Sharing contacts may transfer bacteria that can contribute to eye infections.
- Never buy non-prescription lenses: Always obtain a colored contact prescription from an eye care professional. They’ll fit your lenses to match your eye shape, minimizing the chances of corneal abrasions, impaired vision and other eye issues.
- Never try on colored contacts: Because they’re a medical product, you can’t simply try on colored contacts like a pair of pants. If a retailer suggests otherwise, be wary.
- Never wear costume lenses without a prescription: Even if you're just dressing up for a costume, get your lenses prescribed by a professional. Skipping this step could lead to eye infection—and even permanent eye damage.
Make an Appointment for a Contact Lens Fitting Today
You can get colored contacts at Visionworks! Schedule an appointment with one of our licensed optometrists—and visit our store to meet with our friendly eye care professionals.
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Information received through Visionworks® content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, medical recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your eye doctor, physician, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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