Corneacare Logo
  • CorneaCare Logo
  • Shop
    • Shop All
    • Eyelid Hygiene
    • Eye Vitamins
    • Eye Drops
    • Eyecare Bundles
  • Education
    • Dry Eye Disease
      • Dry Eye 101
      • Causes & Diagnosis
      • Lifestyle
      • Treatment
      • Why It Matters
    • Eye Health & Wellness
    • Eye Glossary
    • Take the Quiz
  • Community
  • App
  • Take the Quiz
  • Contact us
  • Login
  • My Account
Login
Cart Icon 0
Take the Quiz
  • Shop
  • Education
  • Our App
  • Take the Quiz
  • Shop
  • Education
  • Our App
  • Take the Quiz
  • Eye Health & Wellness

Are Colored Contact Lenses Safe?

  • Last updated November 21, 2022

4 min read

Heather Cottrell
Written byHeather Cottrell
Jovi Boparai, MD
Reviewed by Jovi Boparai, MD
Heather Cottrell
Heather Cottrell

Bio

Since becoming a Certified Health Coach in 2005, researching and creating content to help people live longer, healthier lives is my passion. As a content creator and online marketing coach for health coaches, I spend most of my time working on screens. Keeping my eyes healthy is important not just to my work, but to my life!

Get to know me a little better!

Hobby: creating content
Food: is coffee a food? ;)
Superhero: Wonder Woman
Guilty pleasure: bingewatching my favorite shows
Secret power: learning online tech quickly

Training:

Undergraduate: Fordham University
Health and wellness training: Institute for Integrative Nutrition

Jovi Boparai, MD
Jovi Boparai, MDCo-founder & CEO of CorneaCarePhiladelphia, PA

Bio

Dry eye disease is tough! I get it. I have struggled with dry eyes for several years from contact lens use, and from spending countless hours looking at computer screens. In college, my dry eyes got so bad that I couldn’t wear contact lenses, because of a constant “foreign body sensation” when I had them in. I had to stop reading every 30 minutes because my eyes would start to burn and my vision would get blurry. I tried a plethora of treatments and nothing seemed to work. Dry eye disease was not only impacting my eyes, but also my emotional wellbeing. It was preventing me from enjoying life, and getting in the way of my professional training. I felt overwhelmed, frustrated and hopeless.

It was only when I realized that my dry eyes were linked to my lifestyle, environment and overall health did things start to make sense. I noticed that on days when I spent less time on the computer, my eyes felt better. My symptoms would flare when it was windy, or when there was low humidity. I knew that if I wanted to get ahead of my dry eyes, I needed to not only treat my eyes, but to also address my lifestyle. I started a consistent regimen of artificial tears and eyelid hygiene. I switched from monthly contact lenses to daily contact lenses. I started taking scheduled breaks from looking at a computer. I ate a healthier diet focused on anti-inflammatory/antioxidants foods, and I bought a humidifier for my room. In the beginning doing all this seemed impossible, but over time it became part of my usual routine. Not only did my eyes feel better, but I was overall healthier and happier! Turns out what is good for my eyes, was also good for my mind and body. I carried this lesson with me as I started my career to become an ophthalmologist and ophthalmic surgeon.

Because of my personal journey and professional training, I believe dry eye treatment starts by listening to and empowering the patient. I listen for the struggles and cue in on their strengths, while picking up on their lifestyle. Only then do we together start building a treatment plan that incorporates good eye hygiene with small, but impactful lifestyle changes. Our sight is our most important sense, and it is intimately linked to our very being. I want dry eye patients to not only get their dry eyes under control, but to also enjoy good mental and physical health, and live a fulfilling life. What is good for the eyes should also strengthen the mind and fortify the body!

Get to know me a little better!

Hobby: vintage watches
Food: peanut butter
Superhero: Superman
Guilty pleasure: desserts
Secret power: has never had a headache

Training:

Undergraduate: University of Pittsburgh Honors College
Medical school: Weill Cornell Medicine
Ophthalmology residency: Wills Eye Hospital.

Are Colored Contact Lenses Safe?

Share

Table of Contents

Whether you want to change your look for a special occasion or to enhance your Halloween costume, colored contact lenses can seem fun and harmless. However, too often that’s not the case. 

Casually picking up colored contact lenses without a prescription from your eye doctor can be a decision that leads to long term damage to your eyes, and even blindness.

Learn the risks of wearing colored contact lenses and how to do it safely.

You brush your teeth,
moisturize your skin,
what about your eyes?
Take the quiz
Eyecare Quiz on Cellphone

Key Points

  • Safe colored contact lenses require a valid prescription from an FDA approved retailer.
  • Non-prescription costume lenses can cause eye pain, eye injuries, infections, and even blindness.
  • Start with a visit to your eye doctor if you are interested in colored contact lenses.

What are Colored Contact Lenses?

Colored contact lenses are sometimes used for a special occasion. They may be part of a Halloween costume, for cosplay, or in film or theater productions. Still other contact lens wearers choose colored contact lenses to change their eye color on an everyday basis.

Costume contact lenses, also known as cosmetic or decorative contact lenses, are contact lenses that change how the color of your eyes look. Different types of colored contact lenses can also change how the shape of your pupil looks. They can either offer vision correction or not.

Is it Safe to Wear Non-Prescription Colored Contacts?

Theatrical contact lenses, cosplay lenses, or Halloween costume lenses are made with paints and pigments that make the lenses thicker. This can cause colored contact lenses to be less breathable as less oxygen gets through to the eye.

Avoid over-the-counter (OTC) lenses labeled “one size fits all” or “no need to see an eye doctor”. Proper colored contact lenses that are safe for use will be sized for your specific eyes. Non-prescription, counterfeit colored contact lenses can damage or infect your eyes.

eyelid hygiene foundation

Foundation

Eyelid Hygiene Plan 2

Perfect for eye dryness, burning, itching, crusting/flaking of eyelashes and inflamed eyelids. Free shipping 📦.

Try today - $45

Risks Associated with Colored Contact Lenses

You’re taking a big chance if you buy colored contact lenses that are not FDA-approved. Costume contacts can cause eye pain and other injuries.

If you purchase colored lenses from a retailer who isn’t regulated by the FDA, you may get lenses in the wrong size or shape for your eyes. The lenses you receive may be contaminated due to unsafe, low quality packaging.

In a study of more than 600 women, 60% of costume contact lens wearers complained of pain, redness, swelling, and itchy eyes. The researchers found that 1 in 4 participants used non-prescription contacts purchased through costume shops, novelty stores, and unauthorized salons. According to the study, many with eye injuries caused further risk to their vision by failing to seek medical treatment.1

In a 2017 survey of eye care professionals it was determined that the group with the highest risk of eye injuries from wearing costume contacts were people aged between 18 and 25. More than a third of all injuries were reported by new lens wearers who were uninformed about using colored lenses safely.2

The most common injuries from non-prescription colored contact lenses are eye infections.3 According to the FDA’s analysis of 300 counterfeit lenses, harmful bacteria is found in more than half of all non-prescription costume contact lenses purchased.4

Another study of contact lens wearers in 2018 determined that over 85% of participants practiced unsafe handling behavior. This put them at risk for serious eye infections caused by contact lens use.5

When your contact lenses have not been sized by an eye doctor, they can cause corneal abrasions, corneal ulcers and even infectious keratitis, a painful bacterial infection that can lead to blindness.6,7

Such eye injuries can require antibiotic eye drops and even surgery such as a corneal transplant.

Colored Contact Lens Safety Tips

It is possible to safely wear colored costume contact lenses. The first step is to see your eye doctor. 

Whether you go for a natural look or want to change the color of your eyes, remember that contact lenses are medical devices. As such, it is important to commit to proper usage and care when you decide to wear contact lenses or any types of colored contacts.

When used unsafely, your contact lenses can increase your risk factor of developing an eye infection.

Your eye care professional can determine whether you are a good candidate for contact lenses and if so, will measure your eyes for a proper fit and give you instructions for safe use.

Follow these tips for safe use of colored contact lenses:

  • Have a complete eye exam with a licensed eye care professional (optometrist or ophthalmologist).
  • Get a valid prescription that details a brand name, lens measurements and expiration date.
  • Choose only reputable retailers who require a prescription to buy colored FDA approved contact lenses.
  • Always follow the safety instructions for your prescription colored contact lens including how to clean, disinfect and wear your lenses.
  • Never borrow or share contact lenses with anyone else.
  • Keep appointments with your eye care provider for regular eye exams.
rest warm compresses

Rest

Warm Compresses

Perfect for eye dryness, fatigue, tearing, and puffiness of the eyelids. Free shipping 📦.

Try today - $30

Colored Contact Lenses and Dry Eye Disease

According to the CDC, over 45 million Americans wear contact lenses.8 Many patients who require vision correction, prefer contact lenses because they offer more convenience than glasses.

However, contact lenses can become very uncomfortable for those who develop dry eye disease. Dry eye disease is already a common condition among both contact lens wearers and non-lens wearers.

Contact lenses can lead to dry eye disease by blocking oxygen flow to the cornea which creates tear film instability. The lenses can also absorb the fluid from your tears to stay lubricated, leaving your eyes feeling dry and uncomfortable.

One study found that contact lens wearers had three times greater risk of experiencing symptoms of dry eye disease than people who are not contact lens wearers.9

Eye doctors hear frequent complaints of dry eyes from their patients who wear contact lenses. While dry eye disease is common among both contact lens wearers and non-wearers, patients who wear lenses experience more severe discomfort of dry eye symptoms including redness, pain, and other irritations.

Wearing regular contact lenses can increase your risk of developing symptoms of dry eye diseases. Add in the risks associated with colored contact lenses, and it’s clear that colored contact lenses can pose a risk to your eye health.

If you wish to wear contact lenses, be sure they are by prescription only and well-fitted by your eye doctor (optometrist or ophthalmologist). Avoid wearing lenses for prolonged periods.

To limit strain on your dry eyes, choose glasses over lenses while using digital screens, such as a computer, TV or smartphone.

Putting it All Together

When you want to change your look for a special occasion or for your Halloween costume, start with a visit to your eye doctor. Get prescription lenses that fit properly and follow all the instructions for safe handling.

If you develop symptoms such as redness, swelling, pain or other discomfort, remove your contact lenses immediately and get medical attention. A severe eye infection can sometimes develop quickly and can lead to long term damage or even blindness.

Want to take care of your eyes but not sure where to start?
Take the quiz
Eyecare Quiz Illustration of Quiz

What’s Next

Want to learn more about keeping your eyes safe and healthy? Check out our articles in our Eye Health and Wellness section.

Bibliography

  1. Knowledge and Use of Cosmetic Contact Lenses Among Reproductive-Age Women, National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30601087/. Accessed 28 October 2022.
  2. Practitioner Perceptions of Patients Wearing Decorative Contact Lenses Purchased Through Unauthorized Sellers, National Library of Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26783980/. Accessed 28 October 2022.
  3. Eye Infections From Contact Lenses, American Academy of Ophthalmology, https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/contact-lens-related-eye-infections. Accessed 28 October 2022.
  4. Identification of Microorganisms Isolated From Counterfeit and Unapproved Decorative Contact Lenses, National Library of Medicine,  https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28542816/. Accessed 28 October 2022.
  5. Contact lens wear and dry eyes: challenges and solutions, National Library of Medicine, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6095561/. Accessed 27 October 2022.
  6. Conreal Abrasion and Erosion, American Academy of Ophthalmology, https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/eye-health-diseases-corneal-abrasion. Accessed 28 October 2022.
  7. What is a Corneal Ulcer (Keratitis)?, American Academy of Ophthalmology, https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/corneal-ulcer. Accessed 28 October 2022.
  8. Healthy Contact Lens Wear and Care, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, http://www.cdc.gov/contactlenses/fast-facts.html. Accessed 27 October 2022.
  9. Contact Lens-Associated Dry Eye Disease: Recent Advances Worldwide and in Japan, Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science November 2018, Vol.59, DES102-DES108. doi: https://doi.org/10.1167/iovs.17-23685. Accessed 27 October 2022.

Share

Continuing Education

Loading...
  • Eye Health & Wellness

Eye Bag Surgery Gone Wrong

7 min read

Understand the complications of eye bag surgery gone wrong and how it can damage the function and health of your eyes.
Heather Cottrell

Heather Cottrell

  • Eye Health & Wellness

Sharp Stabbing Pain in Eye that Comes and Goes

7 min read

Find out what’s causing that sharp stabbing pain in your eye that comes and goes. And when to see a doctor!
Heather Cottrell

Heather Cottrell

  • Eye Health & Wellness

A Black Spot in Vision of One Eye

7 min read

A black spot in the vision of one eye is probably a harmless floater, but there can be a more serious cause requiring treatment.
Heather Cottrell

Heather Cottrell

Logo_Corneacare_White

    • Shop
    • Wholesale
    • Education
    • Community
    • App
    • Eye Glossary
    Menu
    • Shop
    • Wholesale
    • Education
    • Community
    • App
    • Eye Glossary
    • Contact
    • Terms of service
    • Privacy policy
    • Shipping & Returns
    • Contact
    • Terms of service
    • Privacy policy
    • Shipping & Returns
    • Education
    • Shop
    • Wholesale
    • Contact
    • Terms of service
    • Privacy policy
    • Shipping & Returns
    • Education
    • Shop
    • Wholesale
    • Contact
    • Terms of service
    • Privacy policy
    • Shipping & Returns
    • Education
    • Shop
    • Wholesale
    • Contact
    • Terms of service
    • Privacy policy
    • Shipping & Returns
    • Education
    • Shop
    • Wholesale
    • Contact
    • Terms of service
    • Privacy policy
    • Shipping & Returns
    Instagram Facebook_Pink Youtube Twitter Tiktok
    Copyright – © 2023 CorneaCare, Inc. ⚡️ All rights reserved
    *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease

    Wholesale inquiry

    Please fill out the form below, and we will be in touch shortly.

    20% OFF personalized, convenient and effective eyecare
    20% OFF personalized eyecare
    Take the quiz
    Take the quiz