Color contact lenses undoubtedly enhance any appearance, but they are still medical equipment that necessitate careful fitting by an eye care professional. Before choosing to purchase color contact lenses, you should be aware of a few key facts regarding them, regardless of whether you wish to wear them sometimes or frequently.
For fun or perhaps in honor of Halloween, have you considered donning a pair of colorful contacts? Continue reading to discover more about what you MUST understand before donning a pair.
1. In essence, colored contacts are the same as conventional ones.
The only true distinction between colored contacts and plain contacts is that colored contacts have color. The clear counterpart to the colored lenses has the same design, according to Dr. Justin Bazan of Park Slope Eye in Brooklyn, New York. If you regularly wear contacts and are accustomed to them, handling colored lenses won't be a problem for you. They also have the same lifespan as conventional connections.
2. They might feel a bit less cozy.
Colored contacts can be a little thicker than standard ones, so getting used to them may take some time. Additionally, bigger lenses are frequently simpler to insert and remove.
3. You can experiment with colored contacts even if your vision is great.
Even if you have 20/20 vision, you may copy Selena Gomez's blue-eyed style from the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show last year. "Color contacts are available in a wide range of powers," claims Dr. Bazan. They frequently range from +6 to -8, including zero power. However, seeing is the only reliable method of determining your vision and ensuring that your eyes are in excellent condition.
4. You should NEITHER share them with friends nor use them as regular contacts.
You shouldn't share colored contact lenses with anyone, even though it can seem that way if you're only using them to change up your appearance and they have no power. An unpleasant eye illness might result from exchanging eye germs. Dr. Bazan continues that your friend's contacts might not be the best ones for you.
5. Colored contacts are available to everybody who can wear contacts.
Some people want to just use their contacts for one day, while others want to replace them every two weeks. Some people have completely "regular" eyes, whereas others have astigmatism, a curvature flaw in the eyes. Thankfully, colored contacts are available for almost everyone, though some varieties, such those for astigmatism, could be more expensive.
6. There are numerous brands from which to pick.
Together, you and your eye doctor will search for the brand that is best for you. There are several variations available, including a variety of hues, patterns, and tints. Before making them permanently yours, your doctor will first offer you a trial pair to make sure you enjoy wearing them.
7. They require the same maintenance as normal lenses.
Like with ordinary contacts, some eye care specialists advise cleaning colored contacts every day, never allowing anyone else use them, and never leaving them in overnight. There are actual horror stories that can support the necessity for good care, so these aren't merely neurotic precautions. For instance, a young woman in England who stored her contacts in a glass of solution rather than a case the night before discovered that her eye was considerably inflamed.
8. They remain less dangerous than eye color alteration surgery.
That's correct: Some people actually undergo surgery to have their brown eyes turned blue. Despite the fact that the treatment is not authorized in the United States, according to Dr. Assil, many patients travel abroad for the procedure, which can occasionally result in irreversible damage.
9. Compared to ordinary lenses, they are thicker.
While colored contacts appear to be just as thin as a regular contact lens, some claim that they "tend to be thicker." This may be uncomfortable, which is yet another important reason to get them fitted by a professional. Additionally, you won't spend a lot of money on a package of contacts that you won't be able to wear or return if you decide they're just not for you while still in the doctor's office.
10. A prescription is still required.
Even if your colored contacts are completely dead, you should still see a doctor. This is due to the fact that all contacts, whether they are clear or colored, are dangerous medical devices that may harm your eyes. And it's required by law! "Different brands of contacts perform differently, and they need to be checked by your eye doctor to ensure they are the right ones for you," continues Dr. Bazan. You will receive a prescription for the contacts and be able to place an order after your eye doctor provides the go-ahead. To put it another way, you shouldn't buy colored contacts from any internet shop, including a Halloween store or website, unless they require a prescription. It doesn't run the risk of compromising your safety.