Many people decide to wear colored contact lenses during the Halloween holiday to spice up the costume. However, these type of lenses are not medically approved as they hold a serious risk of damaging the eyes.
There are some horrific cases that happened because of wearing such lenses. One teen became partially blind, because the cornea was so harshly damaged. Therefore, in this blog post we want to inform you about the possible risks and how to minimize them if you still decide to go for it.
Possible Risks of Colored Lenses
Reduced Oxygen Flow
Compared to conventional lenses, decorative contacts are thicker, more stiff, and less breathable. Therefore, infections are more likely to happen. What is more, infections can lead to other eye diseases. Reduced oxygen flow to the cornea can lead to a condition called corneal hypoxia, which can cause discomfort and lead to more severe eye problems.
Allergic Reactions and Irritation
The pigments and dyes used in colored contact lenses can sometimes cause allergic reactions or irritation in the eyes. Problems include corneal infections, scratches on the cornea, impaired vision and blindness. Other consequences of colored contacts are allergic reactions. If bacteria or other microbes become trapped underneath your contact lenses, corneal ulcers can develop. This may potentially result in keratitis, a severe eye infection.
Other Issues Related to Colored Contact Lens Usage
– Pain in the eye.
– Dry eyes.
– Redness of the eye or eyelids.
– Swelling.
– Discharge.
– Watery eyes.
– Blurred or decreased vision.
– Light sensitivity.
– Reduced visual acuity.
– Headaches.
If you notice any of the described symptoms above, immediately visit your eye specialist. Ignoring the situation can result in even worse consequences for your eye health.
How to Minimize the Risk of Colored Contact Lenses?
The best option is not to wear a colored contact lenses at all. However, if you still decide to wear them, go to the optometrist/ophthalmologist who will, after the examination, give you a suitable prescription.
They will determine certain measurements and make sure that lenses fit on your eyes. For examples, they measure the curvature of the cornea and the size of it. After the examination you will get a prescription. Buying contacts via prescription means wearing suitable contacts from a verified provider.
Remember, your eye health should always be a top priority when using colored contact lenses.
Adequate Hygiene and Maintenance
To avoid negative consequences of wearing them, follow the guidelines from your eyecare doctor about cleaning, disinfecting, wearing, and storing the lenses. Before handling with the contact lenses, remember to wash your hands! Here are some key hygiene considerations:
- Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling contact lenses.
- Use the recommended cleaning and disinfecting solutions provided by your eye care professional.
- Replace the lens case regularly, as it can harbor bacteria and fungi.
- Do not sleep and avoid swimming with your colored contacts in, as this can increase the risk of infection.
Conclusion
Colored contact lenses can be a fantastic way to change your look, but they should be used with caution. Always prioritize the health of your eyes when using these cosmetic accessories.
Before using the contacts, educate yourself on the potential outcomes and consider whether one occasion justifies the potential harm to your vision. We believe that the holiday season can be just as fun without colored contact lenses, and believe us, warding off ghosts has the same effectiveness!
Frequently Asked Questions
Are colored contact lenses safe for my eyes?
Colored contact lenses can be safe for your eyes if used responsibly and with proper guidance from an eye care professional. It’s essential to obtain a prescription to ensure they fit correctly and to follow strict hygiene and maintenance practices.
Can I buy colored contact lenses without a prescription?
It’s not recommended to buy colored contact lenses without a prescription. A prescription ensures that the lenses are the right fit for your eyes and are designed to meet your specific needs. Buying lenses without a prescription can lead to ill-fitting lenses and potential eye problems.
Can I sleep or swim with colored contact lenses in?
Sleeping or swimming with colored contact lenses is generally not recommended. Doing so can increase the risk of eye infections, discomfort, and complications. Always remove your lenses before sleeping or coming into contact with water.
Can colored contact lenses permanently change my eye color?
Colored contact lenses can change the appearance of your eye color while you’re wearing them. However, they do not permanently alter your natural eye color. Once you remove the lenses, your eyes will return to their original color.
Are there alternatives to colored contact lenses for changing my eye color safely?
If you’re looking for a safe and non-invasive way to change your eye color, you can consider using colored eyeshadow, makeup, or special contact lenses with a clear center (known as enhancer or circle lenses) that provide a color-enhancing effect without covering the entire eye.
