Colored Contacts vs. Regular Contacts: What's the Difference?
Mar 20,2023 | MYEYEBB
Contact lenses have undergone significant advancements since their debut in the 1800s. Nowadays, contact lenses not only serve to correct vision but also to enhance one's appearance. Colored contacts, in particular, have gained popularity among individuals desiring to alter their eye color. So, what distinguishes colored contacts from regular contacts, and which option is most suitable for you?
Design and Objective
The primary distinction between colored contacts and regular contacts lies in their design and purpose. Regular contacts aim to rectify vision issues, accommodating various prescriptions for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Conversely, colored contacts intend to modify eye color, offering an array of hues such as blue, green, hazel, brown, gray, and even unconventional shades like purple and red. Colored contacts can be opaque, fully covering your natural eye color, or enhancers, which intensify your existing eye color. Some colored contacts also feature a visibility tint, making them more manageable and easier to locate if dropped.
Prescription Necessities
Both colored and regular contacts necessitate a prescription from an eye care professional. However, the requirements for colored contacts differ from regular contacts. A separate prescription is needed for colored contacts even if you already have one for regular contacts. This is due to the broader range of sizes and shapes available for colored contacts and the potential impact of pigments on oxygen flow to your eyes.
Comfort and Practicality
Another area where colored contacts and regular contacts differ is in comfort and ease of use. While both types of lenses may require an adjustment period, regular contacts are generally more comfortable to wear than colored contacts. This is because colored contacts, being thicker due to pigmentation, can feel more conspicuous in your eyes. Moreover, colored contacts demand more meticulous care and maintenance than regular contacts, as they must be stored in a special solution to prevent pigment fading or wear.
Expense
Colored contacts typically carry a higher price tag than regular contacts. This is attributed to the more complex manufacturing processes involved and the costlier pigments used in colored contacts compared to the materials utilized in regular contacts. Furthermore, colored contacts are usually not covered by insurance, as they are deemed a cosmetic item rather than a medical necessity.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between colored contacts and regular contacts hinges on personal preferences and individual requirements. If your primary concern is vision correction, regular contacts might be the better fit. However, if your goal is to alter or enhance your eye color, colored contacts present an excellent means of achieving this effect. It is crucial to obtain both types of contacts from a reputable provider, adhere to proper hygiene and usage guidelines, and schedule regular eye exams with your optometrist to ensure optimal eye health and safety.
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