Types of Non-Prescription Special-Effects Contact Lenses

Special-effects contact lenses are soft contact lenses that have been designed for fun and entertainment purposes. People who need their vision corrected and those who don't can buy these lenses. But even those who don't need a prescription from an eye care professional to correct vision will need a prescription to legally buy these lenses in the United States.

Colored Contacts

Although most colored contact lenses are used to enhance or change one's natural eye color, they can also be used for special effects. Contacts with an enhancement tint use a solid translucent color. Enhancement tints work best for those with light-colored eyes or those who want to make their natural eye color more intense. Contacts with color tints use deeper, opaque coloring to completely change the eye color. Manufacturers try to make these lenses look natural by placing tiny colored dots on the lens to blend in with the natural marking on the eye. The center of the lens that covers the pupil is left clear so the wearer can see.

Costume or Theatrical Contacts

Costume or theatrical contacts are made with opaque color tints. They have been used in movies and theater productions to help transform ordinary actors into realistic-looking animals or aliens. These contacts are specially designed variations of colored contact lenses.

Novelty Contacts

Novelty contacts are available to the general public. Halloween is a popular time to wear novelty contacts to add to one's costume choice. These contacts can transform ordinary eyes into those of an animal such as a jaguar, zebra or cat. They are also available in all white and patterns such as a swirl or an X. Gothic lenses are a popular form of novelty contacts. They're available in a range of dramatic colors and wild designs that appeal to those who like the Goth look.

Where to Buy Special-Effects Contacts

Special-effects contacts should always be purchased from an eye care professional who can ensure they are the proper fit. If the individual already wears prescription contacts or eyeglasses, he can purchase them from the same eye care professional or ask for a copy of the prescription and buy the contacts elsewhere.

Concerns

The American Optometric Association warns that one should never buy special-effects contacts from a retailer who doesn't ask for a valid contact lens prescription. Sales of these contacts without a prescription are illegal in the United States. Consumers may be at risk if they buy special-effects contacts that are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration for sale in the United States. They may have been manufactured improperly or not packaged in a sterile manner. It is also dangerous to wear any contact lens that has not been specially fitted to one's eyes. Poor-fitting contacts can lead to serious vision problems and infections.

References

• All About Vision
• American Optometric Association