Colored contact lenses were introduced in the 1930s, but it wasn’t until the 1980s that experts perfected the process for mass-producing these contacts, making them readily available to consumers. They’ve since gone in and out of style, but many of us remember their vast popularity around 2009. With the ability to customize your eye color at your fingertips, should you take it? Here’s what you need to know about colored contacts!
Color Contacts FAQs
One of the most common misconceptions about colored contacts is that they might interfere with your eyesight – particularly if they feature a bold color or pattern. But colored lenses have a clear section for your pupil, so your vision will never be affected adversely. In fact, colored contacts can even help people see better! In some cases, the lenses are designed to counteract color blindness.
You might be wondering: Do I need a prescription to get colored contact lenses? Well, it depends. Anyone can get colored contact lenses online. However, please note that although they are sold online and in some costume stores, it’s illegal in the U.S. to buy colored contact lenses without having a prescription – even if they are zero-power lenses (which change the color of your iris without changing your vision). “One-size-fits-all” lenses typically do not meet safety standards and can cause discomfort and even damage your eyes and vision. You can avoid these risks by getting a prescription from an eye doctor and purchasing from a licensed and reputable source.
Are Colored Contacts Cool Again?
You might think that colored contacts are so 2000s, but you’re wrong! Online influencers and celebrities alike are readopting the colored contact trend, taking advantage of the flexibility to customize their look. For example, Kylie Jenner and Kim Kardashian have recently been rocking colored lenses to transform their natural brown eyes into deep pools of greens and blues.
How to Select Colored Contacts
We encourage you to try out lenses in any shade that interests you, but there are some tips for choosing the “best” colors. Visionworks says that if you have light eyes, “enhancing” lenses in shades similar to but deeper than your natural color can subtly make your eyes appear more vivid. If you have dark eyes, you should stick to hazel, honey, amber, or deep green. You can also match your lenses to your hair. Visionworks recommends gray or blue eyes for blondes; green or gray eyes for redheads; and hazel, brown, or green for brunettes.
Have you tried colored contacts? Share your experience with us in the comments below!