In recent years, coloured contacts have become a popular way to enhance personal style and make a fashion statement. They offer an exciting opportunity to change up your look, whether you’re aiming for a subtle enhancement or a bold transformation. However, buying and using coloured contacts requires careful consideration to ensure both safety and comfort. This guide aims to provide you with essential information to make informed choices, so your experience with coloured contact lenses is as enjoyable as it is transformative.
1. Understanding Coloured Contacts
Coloured contact lenses are available in various designs, ranging from those that enhance your natural eye colour to those that completely change your eye’s appearance. They are generally made from the same materials as corrective lenses and can be similarly prescribed either with or without vision correction.
There are three types of tints you’ll find: visibility, enhancement, and opaque. Visibility tints are mostly unnoticeable, designed to help you see the lenses better during application. Enhancement tints subtly enhance natural eye colour, while opaque tints can drastically alter it, making them a favourite for theatrical or costume use.
2. Prioritising Safety: Consulting a Professional
Before purchasing coloured contacts, it’s crucial to have a professional eye examination. An optometrist can help ensure that your eyes are healthy enough for contact lens wear and determine the right size and curvature of the lenses for you. This is important even for those who do not require vision correction, as poorly fitting lenses can cause discomfort or even damage your eyes.
Avoid buying lenses from unregulated sources, such as market stalls or online vendors without proper credentials. Lenses sold without a prescription may not meet safety standards and could pose significant risks to your eye health.
3. Choosing the Right Lenses for You
When selecting coloured contacts, consider how often and for how long you wish to wear them. Daily disposables are a convenient, low-maintenance option that minimise the risk of infection but usually come at a higher cost over time. Monthly or bi-weekly lenses require regular cleaning and storage but can be more cost-effective.
Colour choices should complement your natural eye and skin tones for best results. It may be helpful to try different colours to see which enhances your overall appearance.
4. Wearing Your Lenses Comfortably
Proper hygiene is non-negotiable when it comes to wearing coloured contact lenses. Always wash your hands before touching your lenses, and follow your optician’s guidelines for cleaning and storing lenses. Replace lenses as recommended to avoid infections and discomfort.
If you experience any discomfort, redness, or irritation, remove the lenses immediately and consult with your eye care professional. These symptoms could indicate that your lenses are not fitting correctly or that there’s an underlying eye condition that needs to be addressed.
5. Regular Check-Ups
Regular follow-up appointments with your optician ensure that your eyes remain healthy and your lenses continue to fit properly. Annual eye exams can detect any early signs of eye conditions that might be exacerbated by contact lens wear.
Conclusion
Buying coloured contacts is a wonderful way to make a striking impact and enjoy versatile style options. Prioritising safety and comfort will ensure your experience is free from complications. Begin with a visit to your optician, make informed choices, and enjoy experimenting with the fascinating world of coloured contact lenses. Your eyes deserve the best, and with careful planning, they can look their most vibrant and expressive.