1. First things first. While you should be getting your eyes examined every two years to monitor any changes in your vision and your eye health, it is especially important to go to a reputable optician for an eye test prior to ordering colored contact lenses. This is the only way to ensure that the prescription strength and curvature of the contact lenses will be correct and that they will fit properly.
2. Before you visit your optician to order colored contact lenses, do your research. Your optician will offer you recommendations for lenses based upon your eye exam. If you’ve done your research, you will know what you are looking for in the lenses, and you will not feel pressured to make a quick decision. You’ll also be able to ask questions of your optician regarding the care of lenses that you choose, along with any questions on care and storage.
3. When you’re ready to order your prescription lenses, use a reliable, reputable source that carries name brands. While it is often a temptation to go with an ‘off’ brand because of price, you can end up with lenses that have not been subjected to adequate testing and quality control. Lenses that do not correct your vision properly or cause damage to your eyes are not a bargain. The purchase of colored contact lenses is no time to go bargain hunting.
4. Always make sure your eyes have got the correct prescription before choosing colored contacts. Eyes need to be properly measured to make sure the lens will fit comfortably, and the strength needs to be right so you can see properly when using them.
5. Decide on the color to go for. You may want to enhance you natural color, change it to a new color or go for a completely outrageous design – prescription colored contacts can offer all of these options.
6. Before you leave the optician’s office, make sure you understand how to take care of your new lenses. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you don’t understand a procedure, ask for a demonstration. Check with your eye care professional for brands of solutions for cleaning and storing your new contacts. Using a good solutions properly are necessary to avoid damage to your eyes or to your lenses.
7. Play by the rules. Take your contacts out before you go to bed. Doing so will help you avoid infections and eye damage. Ask your optician about rotating the use of colored contacts with clear contacts to maintain the health of your eyes.
8. Remember that your new prescription colored contact can cause some irritation at first. If you feel that the irritation has gone on too long, consult your optician. Once you are used to your new contacts, you’ll find that your vision is corrected and you have a great fashion accessory as well.
