Ever want to look like someone else, even if just for a little while? Sure, you can change your hair color, or try new jewelry or clothing. But what about changing your eye color? You can with colored contact lenses, but before you buy some, take a few things into consideration.

Colored Contact Considerations

You Need a Prescription. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmologists, it is illegal to sell any contact lenses without a prescription in the United States. This means in order to get contact lenses that are safe for your eyes, you need to see an eye-care professional for an exam and fitting. So, this means that you should pass up those contact lenses that you find online, at novelty shops or in beauty salons. In fact, if the place or person you are buying them from does not ask you for a prescription, we suggest running, not walking, away!

Perfect Vision Is Not Exempted. Even if you do not need corrective lenses and you have perfect 20/20 vision, you still need a prescription for colored contacts.

Colored Contact Lenses Need Care, Too. Colored contact lenses require the same level of care and consideration as regular contact lenses. Many people believe that since they can be purchased over-the-counter or on the Internet they don’t really need the same care or cleaning. That incorrect assumption leaves people at risk for serious eye problems such as eye infections, corneal abrasions and corneal ulcers.

Colored contacts should also be removed like regular contacts. Do not sleep in them, and most manufacturers recommend that they should only be worn for a maximum of eight hours.

Keep an “Eye” on Your Eyes. While you’re wearing your colored contacts, you should be aware of how your eyes look and feel. If you notice any pain, redness, swelling or discharge from your eye, call Dr. Davis immediately for a checkup. We repeat, if you’ve been wearing colored contact lenses and have any of these symptoms of any other eye discomfort, call us at 817-778-4444 for an appointment.