Colored contact lenses offer a simple way to change or enhance eye color for aesthetic reasons or as part of a costume. These lenses, which can be purely cosmetic (plano) or corrective (prescription), are widely accessible, leading many to consider wearing them daily. Since contact lenses are medical devices, long-term safety is a serious concern. The primary issue with daily use centers on the lens material and the specific characteristics added to achieve the color change. This article explores the risks associated with daily colored contact lens wear and the necessary precautions to maintain eye health.
Understanding the Risks of Daily Wear
The physical nature of a colored contact lens introduces distinct physiological challenges when worn continuously. The lens acts as a barrier to the eye’s natural breathing process, unlike the cornea which receives oxygen directly from the air. Colored lenses often incorporate a layer of pigment, which makes the lens material thicker and less permeable to oxygen compared to clear lenses.
This reduced oxygen transmission can lead to corneal hypoxia, where the cornea is deprived of the oxygen it needs to remain healthy. Symptoms may begin with discomfort but can progress to corneal swelling (edema), which temporarily blurs vision. Chronic oxygen deprivation can trigger the growth of new, fragile blood vessels into the cornea, known as neovascularization.
The increased thickness and reduced oxygen flow also elevate the risk of microbial infection, such as keratitis. Wearing a lens that is too tight or has accumulated deposits can cause minor abrasions on the corneal surface. These tiny scratches create entry points for bacteria, which thrive beneath the lens. Strict adherence to recommended wear schedules is necessary to mitigate these dangers.
Strict Hygiene Practices for Contact Lenses
Maintaining rigorous hygiene is necessary to minimize infection risks associated with daily lens wear. Before touching the lenses or the lens case, hands must be thoroughly washed with soap and water, then completely dried with a lint-free towel. This prevents the transfer of microorganisms and debris directly to the lens surface.
Lenses must only be cleaned and stored using fresh, approved contact lens solution. Never use tap water, saliva, or expired solution. Tap water can contain Acanthamoeba, a microorganism that causes Acanthamoeba keratitis, a painful and potentially blinding corneal infection. The lens case must be emptied, rinsed with fresh solution, and allowed to air dry upside down after each use. Cases should be replaced entirely every three months.
Following the prescribed wearing schedule is essential. Daily-wear lenses must be removed before sleeping, even for a short nap.
Why Professional Fitting and Lens Type Matter
Even if a colored contact lens is purely cosmetic, it remains a medical device requiring a professional fitting. The eye care specialist must measure the specific curvature of your cornea (base curve) and the total width (diameter) of your eye. These measurements select a lens that rests correctly on the eye, ensuring proper movement, comfort, and tear exchange beneath the lens.
A poorly fitting lens, whether too steep or too flat, can rub against the corneal surface, causing mechanical irritation or abrasion. Ill-fitting lenses also impede the flow of oxygen and tears, which removes waste products and delivers nutrients. Non-prescription colored contacts, often sold illegally, pose a heightened risk because they are frequently manufactured as a “one-size-fits-all” product. Only FDA-approved lenses prescribed by a licensed professional guarantee the material quality and precise fit necessary for safe daily use.
When to Stop Wearing Lenses and Seek Help
Daily contact lens wearers must be vigilant in recognizing the early warning signs of an eye problem to prevent permanent damage. If a lens causes persistent discomfort, a foreign body sensation, or significant blurring of vision, it must be removed immediately. These symptoms can indicate issues ranging from a simple scratch to the beginning of a serious infection.
Specific warning signs that require immediate medical attention include severe pain, excessive tearing, noticeable redness that does not fade quickly, and increased sensitivity to light (photophobia). The onset of discharge or a sudden change in vision clarity also warrants an urgent consultation. If symptoms persist for more than a few hours after the lens has been removed, stop wearing contacts completely and seek care immediately.