The realm of beauty is filled with so much potential, especially because of colored contacts! They are a great way to rock new styles, get into a costume, or simply just have fun with your look. Eye color, like fashion, has without a doubt become a new way of expressing yourself.

But something that involves applying a medical device to an organ like the eyes requires the right education and consultation first. Have you learned everything there is to know before making a decision? Have you spoken to your eye doctor for a further consultation?

Here is everything you need to know to help you make a final decision:

1. Colored contacts vs regular contacts

Understand that colored contacts serve the same purpose as regular contacts in improving visual acuity while keeping your eyes safe.  The only difference is that they are colored for aesthetic purposes.  They also come in a variety of sizes, so they still must be strictly fit for your eye like any contacts to ensure optimal comfort, efficiency, and eye health.  Remember, you can’t just wear any colored contacts – it would be like wearing the wrong-sized shoes! Always stick to prescription-colored contacts as these pose the least risk to your eye health.

2. Consider your prescription

Do you already have a prescription for contacts?  In that case, you are already pretty used to the process of wearing contacts.  At this point, all you really have to do is pick a tint and color for your contacts.  If you don’t fit your contacts right, you run the risk of causing an infection or injury to the eye.  Talk to your doctor or book an eye exam to get a most recent prescription that would work best for your eyes.

3. Decide on the type of tint

There are three primary tints available:

• Opaque: non-transparent contacts that change the color of your eye completely. Best for people with darker eyes.
• Visibility: A visibility tent is usually a very light green or blue tint applied to the lens. It helps you spot the lens in case they drop as well as more easily apply the contacts to your eyes.
• Enhancement: This tint is a bit darker than a visibility tint and it helps enhance your natural eye color. This is for those with light colored eyes who want to boost their color for a bolder look.

4. Choose a color that suits you

It’s actually not as simple as choosing your favorite color.  First of all, your choice of tint will affect your color, so choose according to what works best for your eye color and desired changes.  If you have dark eyes but want a subtle change, then opaque tints with hazel or blue work well.  If you want something that is a little more unusual yet creative, try deep blue or violet.

5. Clean your contacts regularly

Just like regular contacts, colored contacts need to be cleaned, disinfected, and stored regularly with multi-purpose solution and a case.  Always wash your hands before applying or removing your lenses.  Ask your eye doctor about when you should replace your contacts.  Always make sure to schedule a follow-up appointment after initial use, and especially if any eye issues arise.

So, if you want to rock a new look with some colored contacts, go for it!  Just make sure you take care of yourself in the process.  No look is worth risking your eyes for!