Apr 25, 2024

Everything You Need to Know Before Wearing Colored Contact Lenses

Are you thinking about trying out colored contact lenses? Cool choice! They can totally change your look for a day or give you that eye color you've always wanted. But before you jump in and pick a pair, there's some stuff you need to know. We're here to help guide you through the basics-covering everything from keeping your eyes safe to picking the perfect color and taking care of your new lenses. Let's make sure your experience is as awesome as it should be, with healthy eyes and a stellar look.

Medical Consideration and Safety for Colored Contact Lenses

Before you rock a new eye color, there's some important health stuff to think about. Your eyes are super sensitive, so you can't just grab any pair of lenses off the shelf like a new pair of shades.

First things first, visit your eye doctor for an eye exam. Because all contact lenses, even the ones just for looks, need to fit properly. An eye doc will measure your eyes and make sure you get lenses that won't harm them. Plus, they can spot any eye issues you might not even know you have.

In many places, it's actually the law to have one for colored contacts – yes, even if you don't need glasses or clear contacts. It's all about keeping your eyes safe from risks like scratches, infections, or worse, because contacts that don't fit right are no joke.

Now, let's talk about those risks. If you're not careful, contacts can lead to nasty stuff like:

Scratches on your cornea: The clear front part of your eye is delicate. Scratch it, and you're in for a world of discomfort.
Infections: Nasty bugs love a dirty lens. An eye infection isn't just gross; it can damage your sight if you're not careful.
Allergic reactions: Sometimes, your eyes might react badly to lens solution or material.

But don't freak out-there are simple ways to steer clear of trouble:

Always wash your hands before touching your lenses or your eyes.
Follow your eye doctor's instructions for cleaning and storing your lenses.
Never swap lenses with your friends. Sharing is not caring when it comes to contact lenses.
Give your eyes a break now and then, especially if they start feeling tired or sore.

How to Choose the Right Colored Contacts

Now that we've got the safety talk out of the way, let's get to the fun part – picking out your new look! You don't want to rush this bit because the right colored contacts can be like the cherry on top of your personal style. Here are some things to chew on when you're choosing:

Skin Tone and Hair Color: It's not just about the eyes! Consider how different colors will complement your skin and hair. For example, if you have warm undertones in your skin, earthy-colored lenses like hazel might look amazing. Cool undertones? Icy blues or greens could be stunning.
Natural Eye Color: What's your starting point? Lighter natural eyes can be a canvas for subtle changes with enhancement tints. Darker eyes might need opaque lenses for a noticeable change.
Occasion: Think about where you'll be showing off your new eye color. Subtle shades might be great for day-to-day flair, while bold tones can make a splash at a costume party or night out.
Comfort vs. Appearance: Remember, comfort is key. Even the prettiest lenses aren't worth it if they feel like sandpaper in your eyes.

You'll also stumble upon the terms "opaque" and "enhancement" lenses:

Opaque lenses cover your natural color completely, which is great if you're going for a total change.
Enhancement lenses add a little extra oomph to what you've already got; they enhance but don't totally change your natural color.

All the aesthetics aside, fit and comfort should always be your top priority. A correct fit means you'll barely feel them, and they won't harm your eyes – no matter how snazzy they look.

How to Ensure a Proper Fitting and Prescription for Colored Contact Lenses

Now we're getting to the nitty-gritty: making sure your colored contacts fit like a glove. Just like a well-tailored outfit, your contact lenses should be custom-fit to your eyes. This is where an optometrist comes into play – think of them as your personal eye stylist.

When you go for a fitting, your optometrist will measure your eyes and find the perfect lenses for you. They'll look at:

Base Curve: This is the curve of the lens. It needs to match the curvature of your eye to be comfy and work right.
Diameter: This number tells you how big the lens is. Again, it's about that Goldilocks fit – not too big, not too small.
Power: If you need vision correction, this part of the prescription makes things clear.

Even if you're just in it for the color and don't need any vision help, you still need these measurements for the best fit.

And here's something super important: lenses are not one-size-fits-all. Wearing contacts with the wrong specs can really mess with your eyes. So, follow the wearing schedule your eye doc gives you (like how many hours per day and when to toss them out) and always - always - use the type of lenses they prescribe.

Speaking of schedules, let's talk about replacement. Colored lenses come with different lifespan options, from daily disposables to those you replace monthly or even yearly. Your lifestyle plays a big role in what type works best for you. Love convenience? Daily disposables might be your thing. Don't mind a little maintenance? Monthly lenses could be a good pick. Your optometrist will guide you on what's ideal for your eyes and habits.

All set on the technical stuff? Great! Remember, your eye health comes first, so trust your optometrist's advice, and you'll be all good to step out into the world with your dazzling new eye color.

What's the Best Way to Look After Your Colored Contact Lenses Every Day?

Got your perfect pair of colored contacts? Awesome! Now let's keep them-and your eyes-in tip-top shape. Good lens care is like brushing your teeth; it's a daily thing that keeps bigger problems at bay. So here are the golden rules for taking care of your new eye buddies:

Clean Hands, Clean Lenses: Always wash your hands with soap and water before you touch your lenses or eyes. Dry them with a lint-free towel to avoid any unwanted guests on your lenses.
Cleaning and Storing: After you gently remove a lens, give it a good clean with the recommended solution. Rub it softly with your fingers, then rinse. Pop it in a clean lens case filled with fresh solution. No tap water, saliva, or anything else-just the stuff made for contacts.
Keep It Fresh: Change the solution in your case every time you store your lenses. A dirty case is a playground for germs, and nobody wants that.
Follow the Rules: Stick to the guidelines on how often to replace your lenses. Some are good for a day, others can last longer. But when time's up, it's up. Don't try to stretch it.
Eye Love: If your eyes are dry, talk to your optometrist about eye drops that are safe for use with contacts. And give your eyes a break from lenses now and then, especially if you're feeling any discomfort.
Checkups Are Cool: Even if everything feels fine, see your eye doc regularly to make sure your eyes stay happy and healthy.

Here's a step-by-step for cleaning those lenses:

Wash and dry your hands.
Place the lens in the palm of your hand.
Dribble some solution on the lens and gently rub it with your finger.
Rinse it off with more solution.
Put it in your case with fresh solution.

Pro Tip: It's tempting to buy whatever cleaning solution is on sale, but your eyes might not love it. Stick with what your optometrist recommends. And one more thing: makeup and contacts can sometimes clash. To keep the peace, put your lenses in before doing your makeup. Use non-allergenic products if you can, and keep eyeliner away from the inner rims of your lids. When the day's done, take out your lenses before you take off your makeup.

What Are the Best Practices for Wearing Colored Contact Lenses?

Slipping on your new colored lenses should be smooth sailing if you follow these pro tips. Whether it's your first time or you're a seasoned contact lens wearer, good practices are key to keeping those peepers problem-free.

Inserting Your Lenses:

Wash your hands-no shortcuts.
Start with the same eye each time to avoid mix-ups.
Place the lens on the tip of your index finger to check that it's not inside out (it should look like a little bowl, not a plate).
Use your other hand to hold your upper eyelid open and your lower lid down.
Look up, gently place the lens on the lower part of your eye, and slowly release your eyelids.
Blink a few times to center the lens. Voilà!

Removing Your Lenses:

Again, begin with clean, dry hands.
Look up and pull down your lower eyelid.
Gently pinch the lens between your thumb and index finger and lift it away from your eye.
If it's stubborn, put a few drops of contact lens solution in your eye to moisten it and try again.

If You Feel Discomfort:

Don't power through pain. If your eyes hurt, something's not right.
Remove your lenses. If they're dirty, give them a thorough clean and try again.
Still uncomfortable? Give your eyes a break and consult your optometrist if the irritation continues.

Makeup Moves:

Always insert your contacts before applying makeup to avoid contamination.
Stick to non-flaking mascara and eyeliner that won't get onto your lenses.
Reverse the order at the end of the day-remove your contacts before washing off makeup.

Keep Hydrated:

Contacts can make your eyes feel less moist. Keep some contact lens-friendly rewetting drops on hand to refresh your eyes throughout the day.

Listen to Your Eyes:

They'll tell you when they need a break. Pay attention to signs of tiredness or dryness.

There's no substitute for regular check-ins with your eye care professional-they're your ultimate partner in keeping your vision clear and your eyes looking great.

Final Thoughts

If you're thinking about getting colored contact lenses, just remember to keep them safe first. Get your eyes checked and grab a prescription, even for those lenses that are only about changing your eye color. Once you've got the go-ahead from the eye doc, have fun choosing the best color for you. Take care of your lenses like you'd take care of any precious thing-clean them right, store them safely, and don't wear them longer than you should. And if they ever feel uncomfortable, listen to your body and give your eyes a break. Stick to these simple steps and you'll enjoy your new look without any hiccups.

Frequently Asked Questions About Contact Lenses

Q1: How long should beginners wear contacts?: Beginners should start by wearing contacts for only a few hours a day and gradually increase the duration as their eyes adjust. It's recommended to follow your eye doctor's advice, but a common approach is to add an hour each day, not exceeding 12-14 hours at a stretch.
Q2: Can you take a nap with contacts in?: Generally, it's advised not to nap with contact lenses unless they are specifically designed for extended or overnight wear. Napping in regular contacts can dry out your eyes and increase the risk of infection.
Q3: Can you shower with contacts?: No. It's best to avoid showering with contacts. Water can harbor bacteria and other microorganisms that can contaminate your lenses and lead to infections.
Q4: Will colored contacts affect your vision?: Quality colored contacts prescribed by an eye care professional should not affect your vision. However, if the colored part of the lens slips over your pupil, it may cause temporary blurriness.
Q5: Is it OK to wear colored contacts every day?: Yes, you can wear colored contacts every day as long as they are high-quality, fitted correctly, and you follow proper care and hygiene routines. Always use them according to the schedule your eye doctor recommends.
Q6: Why do I see blurry with colored contacts?: Blurry vision with colored contacts could be due to improper fit, a shift in the lens on your eye, deposit build-up, or a manufacturing defect. Consult your eye care provider if blurriness persists.
Q7: What should I do if I slept with contact lenses?: If you accidentally sleep with your contacts, remove them as soon as possible. Blink several times and apply lubricating drops to help moisten the lenses before removal. Observe your eyes for any discomfort or redness, and contact your eye doctor if symptoms persist.
Q8: Can colored contacts make your eyes lighter?: No. Colored contacts can give the appearance of lighter eyes but only while they're being worn. They don't permanently alter your natural eye color.
Q9: Can I wash my face with contact lenses in?: No, it's not recommended to wash your face with contact lenses in as there is a risk of soap or cleanser getting into your eyes and causing irritation or harming the lenses. It's best to remove your contacts before washing your face to avoid any potential problems.