Colored Contact Lenses: Types and How to Use Them Safely

Colored contact lenses change or boost the look of your eye color. They come in many shades and styles. They are also medical devices, so you need an exam and good habits to wear them safely.

This page covers the types, the pros and cons and safe care.

What Are Colored Contact Lenses?

Unlike clear contacts, colored contact lenses come in many hues and patterns. Some are for everyday style, and others are for costumes and theater.

Types of Colored Contact Lenses

Prescription or non-prescription. Prescription lenses correct vision and change color at the same time. Non-prescription lenses, also called plano or cosmetic lenses, only change the look.

By color effect.

• Enhancement lenses: These boost your natural color in a subtle way. They work best on light eyes.
• Opaque lenses: These fully cover your natural color. They are best for a dramatic change.

By wear time.

• Daily disposable: These are single-use lenses, good for occasional wear.
• Monthly wear: These suit frequent wearers who clean them properly.

For more on lens choices, see our page on contact lenses.

Benefits and Drawbacks

Weigh both sides before you buy.

Benefits

• Style: You can try subtle or bold looks, from daily wear to costumes.
• Easy to reverse: They change your eye color only for a time. You can take them out any time.
• Vision correction: Many are available with a prescription, so you can fix your vision and change color together.

Drawbacks

• Possible discomfort: Color pigment can make a lens a bit thicker. This may cause dryness or discomfort at first.
• Higher cost: They usually cost more than clear lenses because they take more steps to make.
• Infection risk: Poor hygiene or misuse can lead to eye infections, so follow the instructions closely.

How to Choose a Color

Think about your natural eye color, your skin tone and how you plan to use the lenses.

• Light eyes: You have more choices, because many shades show up well on light irises.

• Dark eyes: Opaque lenses work best. They cover the natural color for a bold change.

• Cool skin tones: Gray, blue and green can look flattering.

• Warm skin tones: Brown, honey and hazel look natural and harmonious.

• Intended use: Decide if the lenses are for every day or a special event. That choice tells you whether to pick daily, weekly or monthly lenses.

If you also have trouble seeing far away, read about nearsightedness.

Safe Use Tips

Follow these four rules every time.

1. Wash your hands. Wash and dry them before you touch your lenses, so you do not add germs to your eyes.

2. Never share lenses. Sharing can pass bacteria or viruses between people, even when the lenses are only for looks.

3. Follow wearing time guidelines. Over-wearing can cause discomfort and harm the surface of your eye. Do not sleep in your lenses unless they are made for it.

4. Use fresh solution. Reusing old solution can lead to germ growth and irritation.

Clean and Store Your Lenses

Clean lenses last longer and keep germs out of your eyes.

• Use the right solution: Use only the solution your eye care professional recommends. Never use water or saliva, because they are not sterile.

• Clean and rinse: Each time you remove your lenses, clean and rinse them with fresh solution. Do not rub too hard, since that can wear off the color.

• Use a clean case: Replace your case every 3 to 6 months. Clean it with lens solution, not water.

• Keep lenses away from water: Pools, showers and tap water can carry harmful germs.

Precautions to Take

Before you buy, keep these points in mind.

• Buy from licensed sellers: Cheap, unregulated lenses may be poor quality and unsafe.

• See an eye care professional first: You need an exam even if your vision is perfect. Your optometrist will check the fit and show you how to use and care for the lenses.

• Watch for irritation: If you have redness, pain or heavy watering, take the lenses out right away. If symptoms last, call your eye doctor.

• Do not sleep in them: Sleeping in lenses raises the risk of infection, unless they are approved for overnight wear.

Colored Contact Lenses FAQs

Are colored contact lenses safe?

They can be, when you use them correctly and with guidance from an eye care professional. Misuse can cause infections or irritation.

Can I wear them if I do not need vision correction?

Yes, but you still need an eye exam and a prescription, even for cosmetic lenses. A professional must check that the lens fits your eye.

How long can I wear them in a day?

It depends on the lens type. In general, do not wear them more than 8 to 10 hours. Always follow the directions for your lenses.

Do they work on dark eyes?

Yes. Opaque lenses cover the natural color, so they can give a bold look on dark eyes.

Is it safe to buy them online?

It can be, if the seller is licensed and reputable. Stay away from unregulated sources, because their lenses may be unsafe.

Book a Contact Lens Exam

Colored contact lenses can be a fun way to change your look, as long as you start with a proper fitting.

To start, book your eye exam and ask about a contact lens fitting. You can also compare contact lenses vs eyeglasses.