Pros and Cons of Wearing Coloured Contact Lenses

 

Are you considering wearing coloured contact lenses? Here’s what you need to know about the pros and cons of wearing coloured lenses and why it’s important to visit your optometrist first. 

Coloured contact lenses are a popular way to alter the appearance of your natural eye colour, either with a subtle enhancement, or something more dramatic. These lenses are available with corrective power (if you have a prescription) or purely for cosmetic reasons.

Patients may consider wearing contact lenses to: 

• Enhance or transform their contact lenses 
• Add depth or intensity to their natural eye colour 
• Improve their Halloween costume

Contact Lens Fittings in Calgary For Clear and Comfortable Vision 

At our Calgary eye clinic, we offer our patients comprehensive contact lens services, including fittings to teach you how to properly handle your contact lenses and minimize your risk of developing infections. 

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Pros and Cons of Wearing Coloured Contact Lenses 

Have you been considering getting coloured contact lenses, but you aren’t sure if they’re right for you? To help you decide, here are some of the pros and cons of wearing contact lenses: 

3 reasons to wear coloured contact lenses

• Lightly tinted contact lenses can give you a natural-looking enhanced eye colour.
• An optometrist can help you choose the coloured lenses best suited to your eyes for optimal comfort and minimal risk.
• There is no greater risk of infection with cosmetic lenses compared to prescription lenses if you follow the same basic hygiene rules 

3 reasons to avoid coloured lenses

• Wearing coloured lenses without consulting an optometrist first can be dangerous 
• Coloured contact lenses don’t always give the desired result 
• If improperly used, coloured lenses can cause serious eye infections

Cosmetic lenses are not typically recommended because they offer slightly less clear vision compared to transparent ones. In addition, people think of tinted lenses as an accessory rather than a corrective device, and so tend to be more lax about hygiene. 

If you choose to wear coloured lenses, you must follow these tips: 

Tip 1: Consult an optometrist before buying coloured lenses

The optometrist will make sure that your lenses are suited to your sight and eye shape. This exam is essential to prevent dry eyes, discomfort, irritation and serious inflammation.

Tip 2: Choose lightly tinted or enhanced lenses instead of opaque ones

For aesthetic reasons – unless you’re looking for a Halloween costume – opaque coloured lenses that completely disguise your real eye colour are not recommended. Instead, opt for lightly tinted or enhanced coloured lenses that are not too different from your natural eye colour. 

Tip 3: Carefully follow the wear and care instructions

Coloured contact lenses require the same care as prescription lenses. Basically, wash your hands properly before handling them, don’t wear them longer than twelve hours, and above all, NEVER lend your lenses to anyone. If you experience any pain or irritation, consult your optometrist immediately.

Call Today

To find out more about coloured contact lenses and how our optometrists can help you make the safest and most informed decisions when it comes to your eye health, contact our Calgary eye clinic today at 403-286-4884 or book a contact lens fitting today.