Coloured contact lenses are a fun and creative way to enhance your look, switch up your style, or complete a cosplay or costume. But if you're new to wearing contacts, the thought of putting something in your eye can feel a little intimidating. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with this beginner-friendly guide on how to safely wear coloured contacts. From putting them in and taking them out to caring for your lenses, here’s everything you need to know.
Are Coloured Contact Lenses Safe to Wear?
The short answer is yes, coloured contact lenses are perfectly safe—as long as you use them correctly. Like any contact lenses, they are medical devices that require proper care and handling. To ensure your safety, always buy from reputable retailers (like Colour Your Eyes), follow the instructions provided, and make sure you’re choosing lenses with proper certifications.
Common concerns such as "Are coloured contact lenses bad for your eyes?" typically arise from using low-quality lenses or failing to maintain proper hygiene. If you adhere to good practices and prioritize lens care, wearing coloured contacts is no more risky than wearing regular contact lenses.
Step-by-Step Guide to Wearing Coloured Contact Lenses
Now that we’ve covered the safety basics, let’s dive into the practical part: how to safely wear your daily coloured contact lenses. Follow these steps for a smooth and comfortable experience.
Step 1: Wash Your Hands
Before you even touch your lenses, it’s crucial to wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Dry them with a lint-free towel to avoid transferring dirt, oils, or bacteria to your eyes. Hygiene is the cornerstone of safe contact lens use.
Step 2: Inspect the Lenses
Take your coloured contacts out of their packaging and inspect them for any tears, scratches, or debris. Also, make sure you’re putting them in the correct way. If the lens edges flare outward, it’s inside out. Flip it over so it forms a smooth bowl shape before placing it in your eye.
Step 3: Put the Lens in Your Eye
Here’s how to put in your daily coloured contact lenses step by step:
- Start with Your Dominant Hand: Place the lens on the tip of your index finger, ensuring it’s balanced and not sticking to your skin.
- Hold Your Eye Open: Use your non-dominant hand to gently hold your upper eyelid up and your lower eyelid down.
- Insert the Lens: Slowly bring the lens to your eye and gently place it on the coloured part (the iris). Blink a few times to help the lens settle into place.
Step 4: Repeat for the Other Eye
Once you’ve successfully placed the lens in one eye, repeat the process for the other. Take your time—rushing can lead to frustration or accidental damage to the lens.
Tips for Wearing Coloured Contact Lenses Comfortably
Now that your lenses are in, here are a few tips to ensure a comfortable experience throughout the day:
- Limit Wear Time: If you’re a beginner, start by wearing your lenses for 4-6 hours at a time. Gradually increase wear time as your eyes adjust. Never exceed the recommended wear time specified by the manufacturer.
- Avoid Sleeping in Lenses: Even if they feel comfortable, never sleep in your coloured contacts unless they are specifically designed for overnight use.
- Stay Hydrated: Keep your eyes hydrated with sterile contact lens-friendly eye drops, especially if you’re in a dry or air-conditioned environment.
- Avoid Water Exposure: Never wear your lenses while swimming, showering, or using a hot tub. Water can introduce harmful bacteria to your lenses.
Removing Your Coloured Contact Lenses
Taking your lenses out is just as important as putting them in. Here’s how to do it safely:
- Wash Your Hands Again: Just like before, clean hands are key to safe lens removal.
- Look Up and Slide the Lens: Look up slightly and use your index finger to gently slide the lens down to the white part of your eye.
- Pinch and Remove: Use your thumb and index finger to gently pinch the lens and lift it away from your eye.
- Clean or Dispose: If you’re using daily coloured contacts, simply throw them away. For reusable lenses, clean and store them in fresh lens solution.
Proper Care for Coloured Contact Lenses
To ensure your lenses remain safe and comfortable, it’s essential to care for them properly. Even if you’re using daily coloured lenses, it’s worth understanding the basics of lens hygiene:
- Clean Your Lens Case: For reusable lenses, always rinse your lens case with fresh solution after each use. Avoid using tap water, as it can harbour bacteria.
- Use Fresh Solution: Never reuse old solution or mix different types of solution.
- Replace Regularly: Dispose of your lenses according to the recommended schedule. Wearing expired lenses can increase the risk of eye infections.
Are Coloured Contact Lenses Bad for Your Eyes?
When used responsibly, coloured contact lenses are not bad for your eyes. However, neglecting hygiene or using counterfeit lenses can lead to problems like dryness, irritation, or even infection. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and avoid buying lenses from unverified sources. If you experience discomfort, redness, or blurred vision, remove your lenses immediately and consult an eye care professional.
Common Beginner Mistakes (And How to Avoid Them)
If you’re new to wearing lenses, here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
- Skipping Hygiene Steps: Never rush through washing your hands or cleaning your lenses. These steps are crucial for preventing eye infections.
- Over wearing Your Lenses: Even if your lenses feel comfortable, wearing them for too long can deprive your eyes of oxygen.
- Not Storing Lenses Properly: For reusable lenses, always store them in a clean case with fresh solution.
Why Choose Colour Your Eyes for Coloured Contact Lenses?
When it comes to purchasing coloured lenses, it’s important to choose a trusted retailer. Colour Your Eyes offers a wide range of high-quality, certified lenses in vibrant colours to suit every style. Whether you need lenses for a special occasion or want to experiment with your everyday look, we’ve got you covered. Plus, with our fast delivery and commitment to safety, you can shop with confidence.
Final Thoughts
Wearing coloured contact lenses is a fun and exciting way to express yourself, but it’s essential to prioritize safety and proper care. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to enjoy your lenses comfortably and confidently. Whether you’re trying out daily coloured contact lenses for the first time or adding a pop of colour to your look, remember that good hygiene and responsible use are key to protecting your eyes.
Ready to Try Coloured Contacts?
Explore our wide selection of coloured contact lenses at Colour Your Eyes and find the perfect pair to match your vibe. Shop now and transform your look today! Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for exclusive deals and tips on getting the most out of your lenses.