Colored and patterned contact lenses have gained immense popularity for holidays like Halloween and events such as cosplay conventions. These lenses allow people to enhance their costumes and overall look by changing their eye color or even adding special effects. 

While wearing these lenses can lend elements of whimsy to a costume or outfit, it’s essential to exercise caution. Using costume contacts improperly can lead to severe eye health risks, including infections and corneal damage. Here, Joseph Allen, also known as Doctor Eye Health, shares some tips to help ensure your safe and comfortable use of colored contacts.*

Wear for Short Durations Only

Before diving into the fun of colored contact lenses, remember that it’s important to only wear them for short periods of time. According to Allen, most colored contact lenses on the market, especially older ones made from 1960s technology, don’t allow enough oxygen to reach the eyes. 

“I only wear them for up to one to two hours, just long enough for a Halloween party,” he says. Wearing these lenses longer than recommended can lead to oxygen deprivation, causing your cornea to swell and putting you at risk for infections and long-term eye damage.

Even though modern cosmetic lenses like Air Optix colors have improved breathability, he cautions, many costume contacts don’t meet these newer standards. While the industry standard for oxygen transmissibility is 24 DK over T, he adds, many costume lenses rate as low as eight, which significantly increases the risk of eye complications if worn too long.

Keep Your Eyes Moist and Clean Lenses Properly

Colored contact lenses, especially older ones, are often uncomfortable due to their outdated technology and rigid materials. Allen suggests keeping a bottle of re-wetting drops handy to maintain comfort during wear. 

He specifically recommends artificial tears approved for contact lens use, such as Refresh Relieva. Moreover, he emphasizes, “If your eyes become red, irritated, or painful, take out your lenses immediately and call your doctor if the discomfort persists.”

Equally important is the proper cleaning and storage of reusable colored lenses. Avoid using water or regular saline to clean your lenses, as this can lead to serious infections, Allen says. Instead, use an approved multi-purpose disinfectant solution. 

“Be sure to rub the lenses with the solution to break up bacteria and deposits,” he stresses, and if you’ve stored your lenses for a long time, check the solution’s instructions on how often it should be replaced to avoid contamination.

Source Your Lenses from Credible Sellers

One of the most critical safety tips, he says, is buying your colored contact lenses from a credible source. Many online retailers offer lenses at bargain prices but may skip essential safety steps like verifying your prescription. 

In the U.S., contact lenses are classified as medical devices, and sellers are legally required to validate prescriptions. “If these companies aren’t following that one basic rule,” Allen warns, “what other rules aren’t they following?”

To ensure that you get safe, reliable lenses, Allen recommends purchasing them directly from your eye care provider. This guarantees that:

• You receive lenses from trusted manufacturers, 
• They haven’t expired, and
• They’re suited to your eye health needs. 

Even if you buy from a local store, he says, always double-check the lenses for any signs of damage or tampering.

*Allen, J. [Doctor Eye Health]. (2022, October 4). Watch BEFORE you buy! 7 Tips for COLORED Contacts! [Video file]. Retrieved from  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WQUMyGvW3ag