Colored contact lenses: how to wear them safely

Colored contacts are everywhere, from soft hazel for everyday wear to bold shades for events and cosplay. They are fun, but many people treat them like a fashion accessory rather than what they are: a medical device that sits directly on your eye. Worn carelessly, they can scratch the cornea or cause infection. Worn properly, they are safe. Here is how to keep them that way.

They need a fitting, even with no grade

Every eye has its own size and curve. A lens that does not match yours can sit too tight or slide around, both of which irritate the eye and starve it of oxygen. This is true even for plano lenses, the ones with zero grade worn purely for color. A fitting measures your eye and confirms the lens sits correctly, so it should come before your first pair, not after a problem starts.

Buy from a proper source

Cheap colored lenses sold loose at bazaars, kiosks or unknown online sellers are the most common source of trouble. You cannot verify how they were made, stored or handled. Buy lenses that are properly packaged, sealed and sold through an optical retailer or licensed seller. The few pesos you save on a random pair are not worth a corneal infection.

Hygiene, every single time

• Wash and dry your hands before touching your lenses.
• Use fresh solution, never water or saliva. Tap water carries organisms that can infect the eye.
• Rub and rinse each lens with solution before storing, and empty the case daily.
• Replace the case every few months and never top up old solution with new.
• Do not share lenses with anyone, even for a photo. Sharing spreads infection.

Respect the wear schedule

Colored lenses come with a replacement schedule: daily, monthly or otherwise. Stick to it. A monthly lens worn for three months collects deposits that irritate the eye. Do not sleep in lenses unless they are specifically approved for it, and take them out before showering or swimming to avoid trapping water and bacteria against the eye.

In our climate, watch for dryness

Air-conditioned malls and offices, long screen hours and city dust all dry the eyes, and lenses dry out faster in these conditions. If your eyes feel gritty, remove the lenses and rest. Keep a pair of glasses as a backup for long days.

When to take them out and see someone

Redness, pain, light sensitivity, blurred vision or a watery, gritty feeling that will not settle are signals to remove the lenses right away and have your eyes checked. Do not push through it. Caught early, most irritation clears quickly.

Visit a Vision Express store for a contact lens fitting and honest advice on colored lenses that are safe for your eyes, then wear them with confidence.