Prescription colored contacts offer both vision correction and the ability to enhance or change your eye color. With their growing popularity, many people have questions about how these lenses work, their safety, and their care. In this article, we address some of the most frequently asked questions about prescription colored contacts to help you make informed decisions and ensure a positive experience.
What Are Prescription Colored Contacts?
Prescription colored contacts are specialized contact lenses designed to correct vision while altering or enhancing the color of your eyes. They come with a prescription to address vision issues such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, or presbyopia, and also feature tinted designs to change or enhance your eye color.
There are different types of prescription colored contacts, including enhancement tints, which intensify your natural eye color, and opaque tints, which completely change your eye color. They are available in various colors and patterns, allowing for both subtle and dramatic transformations.
Are Prescription Colored Contacts Safe to Wear?
Yes, prescription colored contacts are safe to wear when used correctly. It’s crucial to obtain them from a reputable source and follow the guidelines provided by your eye care professional. The lenses should be prescribed specifically for your eyes, and you should adhere to proper hygiene practices to avoid infections or other complications.
Regular eye exams are essential to ensure that your lenses fit properly and your eyes remain healthy. Always use contact lens solutions recommended by your eye care professional, and never share or use expired lenses.
How Do I Choose the Right Color for My Eyes?
Choosing the right color for your prescription colored contacts depends on your personal preferences and desired effect.
For a Subtle Enhancement: If you want to enhance your natural eye color, opt for enhancement tints. These are semi-transparent and add depth and vibrancy to your existing color without completely changing it.
For a Dramatic Change: If you’re looking for a complete transformation, choose opaque tints. These lenses completely cover your natural eye color and are available in a wide range of bold and vibrant shades.
Consider factors such as your skin tone, hair color, and wardrobe when selecting a color. You might also want to try on different colors to see how they look on your eyes before making a final decision.
How Do I Care for Prescription Colored Contacts?
Proper care is essential to ensure the longevity and safety of your prescription colored contacts. Follow these key practices:
Wash Your Hands: Always wash your hands with soap and water before handling your lenses.
Clean and Disinfect: Use a contact lens solution recommended by your eye care professional to clean and disinfect your lenses. Never use tap water or saliva.
Replace Solution Regularly: Change the solution in your lens case daily, even if you’re not wearing your lenses.
Follow Wearing Schedule: Adhere to the prescribed wearing schedule for your lenses, whether they are daily disposables, bi-weekly, or monthly.
Avoid Sleeping in Lenses: Unless your lenses are specifically designed for extended wear, remove them before sleeping to prevent complications.
Can I Wear Prescription Colored Contacts if I Have Astigmatism?
Yes, you can wear prescription colored contacts if you have astigmatism, but you will need toric lenses specifically designed for astigmatism correction. Toric colored contacts have special designs to accommodate the irregular shape of the cornea, ensuring proper vision correction and lens stability.
Consult with your eye care professional to find the best toric colored contacts that meet your vision needs and desired color effect.
How Often Should I Replace My Prescription Colored Contacts?
The replacement schedule for prescription colored contacts depends on the type of lenses you use:
Daily Disposables: These are designed to be worn for one day and then discarded. They are convenient and require no cleaning.
Bi-Weekly or Monthly Lenses: These lenses are typically replaced every two weeks or month, respectively. They require regular cleaning and proper storage.
Always follow the replacement schedule recommended by your eye care professional and avoid wearing lenses beyond their intended duration.
Can I Use Makeup with Prescription Colored Contacts?
Yes, you can wear makeup with prescription colored contacts. To minimize the risk of irritation or damage:
Apply Lenses First: Insert your lenses before applying makeup to avoid transferring makeup particles onto the lenses.
Use Non-Oily Products: Choose water-based or oil-free makeup products to prevent residue buildup on your lenses.
Remove Lenses Before Removing Makeup: Always remove your lenses before taking off your makeup and use gentle, non-oily removers.
Conclusion
Prescription colored contacts offer a stylish and functional way to enhance your eye color while addressing vision needs. By understanding the basics of these lenses, including their safety, care, and the selection process, you can enjoy the benefits of clear vision and a new look. For personalized advice and to ensure the best results, always consult with your eye care professional when choosing and caring for prescription colored contacts.