Best Colored Contacts for People Who Hate the Feeling

If you hate the feeling of colored contacts, you're not alone, but rest assured, comfort has come a long way! The best colored contacts for individuals sensitive to how lenses feel are typically those made from advanced silicone hydrogel materials, featuring high oxygen permeability, optimal water content, and a precise, custom fit determined by an eye care professional. For more on this, see our guide to 7 Mistakes People Make With Colored Contacts.

Understanding Why Colored Contacts Can Feel Uncomfortable

Many people dream of transforming their eye color but hesitate due to past uncomfortable experiences with contact lenses. The sensation of having a foreign object in your eye can be off-putting, leading to dryness, irritation, or a persistent awareness of the lens. Understanding the common culprits behind this discomfort is the first step toward finding a solution.

Common Causes of Discomfort:

• Dry Eyes: This is perhaps the most frequent complaint. Lenses can sometimes disrupt the natural tear film, leading to dryness, grittiness, and irritation.
• Poor Fit: A lens that's too tight restricts oxygen flow and feels constricting, while one that's too loose can shift and irritate the eye. The curvature and diameter of the lens must match your eye's unique shape.
• Material Sensitivity: Some individuals may be more sensitive to certain lens materials or preservatives in cleaning solutions.
• Low Oxygen Permeability: If a lens doesn't allow enough oxygen to reach the cornea, it can lead to a feeling of suffocation or general discomfort, especially after extended wear.
• Edge Design: Sharper or thicker lens edges can rub against the eyelid or cornea, causing irritation.
• Improper Handling & Hygiene: Dirt, debris, or improper cleaning can quickly make even the most comfortable lens feel terrible.

Remember, colored contacts are medical devices, and their fit and material play a crucial role in how they feel on your eye. Never compromise on getting a professional fitting.

The Science of Comfort: What Makes a Contact Lens Feel Good?

The evolution of contact lens technology has brought significant advancements in comfort. Modern colored contacts are designed with materials and features specifically to minimize the sensation of wearing them, making them feel almost imperceptible.

Key Factors Influencing Comfort:

• Material Composition:
  • Hydrogel: Traditional soft lenses made primarily of water. They are generally comfortable but can dry out over long periods, especially in dry environments.
  • Silicone Hydrogel: The gold standard for comfort. These materials combine the water-loving properties of hydrogel with silicone, which is highly permeable to oxygen. This allows significantly more oxygen to reach the eye, reducing dryness and enhancing comfort for longer wear times.
• Oxygen Permeability (Dk/t Value): This measures how much oxygen can pass through the lens to your cornea. A higher Dk/t value means better oxygen flow, which is vital for eye health and comfort, especially if you wear lenses for many hours. Lenses with high oxygen permeability help prevent that "suffocated" feeling.
• Water Content: While important for initial comfort, high water content alone isn't always best. Lenses with very high water content can sometimes draw moisture from your eyes to maintain their own hydration, potentially leading to dryness over time. The ideal is a balanced water content that works synergistically with the material.
• Wettability: The ability of the lens surface to attract and hold a layer of moisture. Lenses with good wettability stay hydrated and smooth, reducing friction with the eyelid. Many modern lenses incorporate wetting agents or surface treatments to enhance this.
• Edge Design: Lenses with thin, tapered, or "infinity" edge designs are specifically engineered to minimize interaction with the eyelid during blinking, significantly reducing the sensation of the lens.

Top Features to Look For in Comfortable Colored Contacts

When selecting colored contacts, especially if you're sensitive to how they feel, prioritize these features:

1. Silicone Hydrogel Material: This is your best bet for superior oxygen flow and extended comfort.
2. High Oxygen Permeability (High Dk/t): Look for lenses that explicitly mention high oxygen transmission.
3. Daily Disposables: For ultimate hygiene and a fresh, clean lens every day, dailies are often the most comfortable option as there's no buildup of deposits.
4. UV Blocking: While not directly related to comfort, UV protection is an important health feature to consider for overall eye safety.
5. Reputable Brands: Stick to well-established brands that invest in research and development for comfort and safety.

At MyEyeColors, we understand that comfort is paramount. That's why we meticulously source lenses made from advanced materials, including high-quality silicone hydrogel, to ensure a comfortable experience for our customers. We offer a diverse range of colored contacts designed with cutting-edge technology to minimize the feeling of wearing them, allowing you to enjoy your new look without distraction. You can explore our comfortable options and vibrant shades at browse our colored contacts. If you're weighing options, our roundup of Can People Tell If You're Wearing Colored Contacts is a good next read.

Beyond the Lens: Tips for Maximizing Colored Contact Comfort

Even the best lenses won't feel comfortable if not used correctly. Proper care and habits are crucial for a pleasant experience.

Essential Comfort Tips:

• Always Get a Professional Fitting and Prescription: This is non-negotiable. An eye care professional will measure your eyes precisely to ensure the correct base curve and diameter, and assess your eye health to recommend the most suitable lens material. They are also the only ones who can provide a valid prescription.
• Strict Adherence to Hygiene:
  • Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before handling lenses.
  • Use only fresh, sterile contact lens solution recommended by your eye doctor. Never use tap water or saliva.
  • Clean and disinfect reusable lenses as instructed, and replace your lens case every 1-3 months.
  • For daily disposables, discard them after each use and open a fresh pair.
• Follow Wearing Schedule: Do not wear lenses longer than recommended by your eye care professional or the manufacturer. Over-wearing can lead to discomfort, dryness, and serious eye health issues.
• Use Rewetting Drops: If you experience occasional dryness, use rewetting drops specifically formulated for contact lens wearers. Consult your eye doctor for recommendations.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help maintain overall body hydration, including your eyes.
• Blink Regularly: Especially when using computers or digital devices, remember to blink fully and frequently to keep your lenses moist.
• Never Share Lenses: Sharing colored contacts can transmit harmful bacteria and lead to severe eye infections. Your lenses are prescribed for your eyes only.
• Remove Lenses Before Sleeping: Unless specifically prescribed extended wear lenses by your eye doctor, always remove your colored contacts before you sleep.

When to Consult Your Eye Care Professional

Colored contacts are medical devices, and your eye care professional is your primary resource for ensuring their safe and comfortable use. Do not hesitate to contact them if you experience any of the following:

• Persistent discomfort or irritation.
• Redness, excessive tearing, or discharge.
• Blurred vision or sensitivity to light.
• Any signs of an eye infection.
• If your current lenses suddenly feel less comfortable.

They can reassess your fit, try different lens materials, or address underlying eye health conditions that might be contributing to discomfort. Never attempt to self-diagnose or treat eye issues. You might also like our take on Colored Contacts for People With Active Jobs.

Key Takeaways

• For maximum comfort, prioritize colored contacts made from silicone hydrogel with high oxygen permeability.
• A professional fitting and prescription from an eye care professional is essential for ensuring proper fit and eye health.
• Strict hygiene practices and adhering to the recommended wearing schedule are crucial for preventing discomfort and infection.
• MyEyeColors offers a range of comfortable colored contact options designed with advanced materials for a barely-there feel.
• Always consult your eye care professional if you experience persistent discomfort or any unusual eye symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can colored contacts feel different than clear ones?

Sometimes, yes. The manufacturing process for adding color to lenses can occasionally result in a slightly thicker lens profile or a less smooth edge compared to a clear lens made from the exact same material. However, advancements in colored contact lens technology have significantly minimized these differences, especially with high-quality brands like MyEyeColors that prioritize comfort and thin edge designs. A proper fitting by an eye care professional is key to ensuring that any difference in feel is imperceptible.

How long should I wear new colored contacts to get used to them?

Most people adapt to new contact lenses, including colored ones, within a few days to a week. Your eye care professional will likely provide a wearing schedule for new lenses, gradually increasing the wear time each day. If after this initial period, your colored contacts still feel uncomfortable or irritating, it's crucial to contact your eye doctor. It could indicate a need for a different fit, material, or an underlying eye condition.

What if my colored contacts still feel uncomfortable after trying different brands?

If you've tried different brands and materials, and your colored contacts still feel uncomfortable, it's imperative to schedule an appointment with your eye care professional. They can thoroughly re-evaluate your eye health, check for underlying dry eye conditions, re-measure your eyes for an optimal fit, or even suggest specific lens care products that might be gentler for your eyes. Never force yourself to wear uncomfortable lenses, as this can lead to serious eye complications.

Is it normal for colored contacts to feel dry after a few hours?

While some degree of dryness can occur with any contact lens, especially in dry environments or after prolonged screen time, persistent or severe dryness after only a few hours is not normal and should be addressed. It could indicate that the lens material isn't suitable for your eyes, you're not blinking enough, or you might have an undiagnosed dry eye condition. Consult your eye care professional for an assessment and recommendations, which might include rewetting drops or a different lens type.

How often should I replace my colored contacts for best comfort?

The replacement schedule for your colored contacts (daily, bi-weekly, or monthly) is determined by your eye care professional based on the lens type and your eye health. Adhering strictly to this schedule is vital for comfort and hygiene. Daily disposable lenses offer the highest level of fresh comfort as you use a new, sterile pair every day. For bi-weekly or monthly lenses, replacing them as recommended prevents protein and lipid buildup, which can lead to discomfort and potential eye infections. Never extend the wear of any contact lens beyond its prescribed replacement schedule.