Coloured contacts are all the rage these days. Whether you’re looking to elevate your Halloween costume game, enhance your natural eye colour, or try something totally bold and new, coloured contacts can transform your look in seconds. But if you live in Canada, you’ll need an up-to-date prescription to purchase coloured contacts legally.
While this may seem like an inconvenience, it’s ultimately for your benefit and good eye health. Visiting your eye doctor for an eye exam makes sure that it’s safe for you to wear coloured contacts.
The Legal Side of Coloured Contacts
Before you order a pair of dazzling aquamarine lenses for that next big event, you should understand the legal requirements involved. Regulations vary from country to country and even within provinces or states.
In Canada, coloured contacts are treated as medical devices. Whether they provide vision correction or are purely cosmetic, you need a valid prescription to purchase them legally.
Why a Prescription is Non-Negotiable
It might seem like overkill to require a prescription for non-corrective lenses, but this is more than just a legal formality. Your eyes are delicate, and taking shortcuts with your eye health can lead to serious risks.
Ensuring Proper Fit
Even cosmetic lenses need to fit your eyes correctly. One size does not fit all when it comes to your corneas. A professional eye exam ensures that the lenses you buy match your eye shape, diameter, curvature, and prescription (if needed).
Avoiding Eye Damage
Poorly fitted lenses or low-quality materials can cause problems ranging from mild discomfort to severe damage, such as:
- Scratches on the cornea: Ill-fitting lenses can rub against your eye, causing injury
- Reduced oxygen supply: Cheap or poorly made lenses may block oxygen flow to your eyes, leading to infections or long-term damage
- Eye infections: Using unsanitary lenses or improperly stored ones creates a breeding ground for bacteria, which can lead to serious infections like keratitis
Protecting Eye Health
A prescription isn’t just about “rules.” It’s about protecting your ability to see clearly and avoid unnecessary risks. Avoiding that trip to the optometrist isn’t worth damaging your precious eyes.
How to Get a Prescription for Coloured Contacts
Getting a prescription for coloured contacts is easier than you might think. Here’s your step-by-step guide to making it happen.
Schedule an Eye Exam
Book an appointment with your optometrist. Make sure to mention that you’re interested in coloured contacts so they can check factors like your corneal curvature and tear film stability.
Discuss Your Options
During your appointment, you’ll have the opportunity to explore your options. Whether you’re after a subtle enhancement or a dramatic transformation, your doctor can recommend a brand or type of coloured lens that suits your needs and fits safely.
Get Your Prescription
Once your exam is complete, your optometrist can provide you with a written prescription. This will include essential details such as lens diameter, base curve, and power (if applicable). Keep this handy when you’re ready to make your purchase.
Order from a Trusted Source
Stick to buying your coloured contacts from reputable retailers or your eye care provider. Many trusted brands are widely available online through verified outlets or in-store at specialized clinics.
The Risks of Non-Prescription Contacts
If you’ve considered skipping the prescription process and heading straight to a random online retailer, here’s why it’s not worth the gamble.
Low-Quality Materials
Lenses purchased without a prescription are often made from subpar materials. These materials might not allow enough oxygen to reach your eye, leading to irritation or even permanent damage.
Unknown Sizing
Non-prescription contacts typically don’t require specific measurements and rely on a “one-size-fits-all” sizing approach. The result? Lenses that may slide around, feel uncomfortable, or scratch your eyes.
Increased Risk of Infection
Without a prescription, you’re also more likely to miss out on proper care instructions. Combine that with lenses made in unregulated facilities or stored in non-sterile containers, and you’ve got yourself a recipe for potential infections.
Hidden Costs
Those cheaper contacts might seem like a bargain, but the cost of treating an eye infection, corneal scratches, or worse, can far outweigh the initial cost of purchasing high-quality prescription lenses.
Safeguarding Your Eyes & Shopping Smart
Coloured contacts are a fun and exciting way to switch up your look or express your style. But fashion should never come at the cost of your health. By following the prescription process and purchasing your lenses from trusted sources, you can enjoy your new look while keeping your eyes safe and happy.
If you’re ready to get started, book an appointment with our expert team at Orchard Park Optometry. Your eyes will thank you.
