If you have astigmatism and love experimenting with contact lenses, you may have wondered if you can wear colorful contacts with your condition. Well, the answer is not a straightforward one, as several factors determine whether you can wear colored contacts with astigmatism. Here, we’ll discover if you can wear colorful contacts and what criteria you need to meet to successfully wear them with astigmatism.
What is Astigmatism?
Astigmatism is a refractive error that occurs when the cornea or lens of the eye is slightly curved. Instead of being round, the cornea is distorted, and this makes the eye unable to focus light correctly. This results in blurred or distorted vision, making it difficult to see clearly, especially at certain angles or distances.
How is Astigmatism Corrected?
Astigmatism is corrected using special contact lenses, glasses, or refractive surgery. Glasses and contact lenses work by compensating for the curvature of the eye, while surgery alters the shape of the cornea to improve vision.
Can You Wear Colorful Contacts with Astigmatism?
The answer to this question is “yes” and “no.” Yes, you can wear colored contacts with astigmatism, but the availability of colored contacts for astigmatism is limited.
Why is the Availability of Colored Contacts Limited for Astigmatism?
Regular colored contacts are designed for those who have standard vision and do not have any visual conditions. These colored contacts can easily rotate on the eyes to give the desired cosmetic effect of changing the eye color. However, since people with astigmatism have an irregular-shaped cornea, it makes it difficult for the colored contacts to rotate to the right orientation. This results in blurred vision, discomfort, and increased risk of eye infections.
What are the Options for Colorful Contacts if you have Astigmatism?
To wear contact lenses with astigmatism, you need to get special toric contact lenses. These lenses have a unique shape that can accommodate irregular-shaped corneas to provide clear and comfortable vision. Since toric lenses are designed to stay in place, they are a perfect option for anyone with astigmatism.
Do Toric Lenses Come in Color?
Yes, toric lenses come in different colors, including blue, green, brown, and gray. These lenses offer a subtle color change that can enhance the natural color of the eyes without going overboard. You can get contacts that are slightly darker or lighter in different hues.
What Do You Need to Consider When Buying Colored Contacts with Astigmatism?
When buying colored contacts with astigmatism, there are some factors you need to consider to get the right lenses. These factors include:
- The degree of your astigmatism: This determines the type of toric lenses to get
- The base curve of the contacts: This is the curve of the lens that matches the curve of the eye. Getting the right base curve ensures a comfortable fit
- The diameter of the contacts: This is the width of the lens that should fit your eye appropriately for comfortable wear
- The color strength and opacity: You should choose colors that enhance your natural eye color without looking fake or unnatural
- The manufacturer: You should get contacts from a reputable manufacturer to ensure quality and safety
Can You Wear Colored Contacts with Astigmatism and Eye sensitivity?
If you have astigmatism and eye sensitivity, it’s essential to get colored contacts made with breathable materials. These materials allow air to pass through the lenses, reducing eye irritation and discomfort. You can also opt for daily disposable lenses to prevent the accumulation of dirt, debris, and allergens that can affect your eyes’ health.
Can Colored Contacts with Astigmatism Change Your Vision?
Colored contacts with astigmatism can change your vision only if they don’t fit properly or correctly. If the toric contact lenses are not fitted accurately and rotate on the eyes, it can cause blurry vision, discomfort, and redness.
How Can You Prevent Vision Problems When Wearing Colored Contacts with Astigmatism?
To prevent vision problems when wearing toric contacts, you need to:
- Get a prescription from a licensed eye doctor
- Follow the doctor’s instructions when inserting and removing the lenses
- Ensure the lenses are clean and disinfected before wearing them
- Replace the lenses as per the manufacturer’s instructions to prevent infections and allergies
Conclusion
People with astigmatism can wear colored contacts with the right fit and prescription. Toric lenses are the best option for astigmatism since they provide a comfortable fit and clear vision. However, it’s essential to consult an eye doctor to get the right prescription and choose reputable manufacturers to ensure quality and safety.
FAQs
- Q: Are there colored contacts for astigmatism?
- A: Yes, there are colored contacts for astigmatism. You can get toric lenses with different colors and hues to enhance the natural color of your eyes.
- Q: Can colored contacts with astigmatism change vision?
- A: Yes, colored contacts with astigmatism can change vision only if they don’t fit correctly. If the lenses don’t sit properly, it can cause blurry vision, redness, and discomfort.
- Q: What do you need to consider when buying colored contacts with astigmatism?
- A: When buying colored contacts with astigmatism, you need to consider the degree of your astigmatism, the base curve of the lenses, the diameter of the contacts, the color strength and opacity, and the manufacturer’s reputation.
References
- Mayo Clinic Staff. (2021) Astigmatism: Symptoms and causes. Mayo Clinic. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/astigmatism/symptoms-causes/syc-20353835
- Kunnen, C. M., & De Brabander, J. (2005). Contact lenses for irregular astigmatism. Eye & contact lens, 31(5), 186-190.
- American Optometric Association. (2021). Toric contact lenses. Aoa.org. https://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/caring-for-your-vision/contact-lenses/toric-contact-lenses?sso=y