Cosmetic Lenses & Allergies

Cosmetic Contact Lenses

Cosmetic contact lenses are today extremely fashionable. Cosmetic lenses can be purchased online without a prescription. However, you should always contact an eye-care professional before using cosmetic contact lenses. Opticians have a much better idea on the suitability of a particular type of contact lens to each person. Indeed, for some people with visual problems colored contact lenses are best avoided. And of course it is always advisable to purchase cosmetic contact lenses from a reputable manufacturer.
Cosmetic contact lenses are often only manufactured in one size to fit every person. But be warned that cosmetic contact lenses may on rare occasions cause some corneal irritation. Ill-fitting lenses can also affect the cornea due to inhibiting the free passage of oxygen.
Note also that it can not be adequately emphasized that cosmetic contact lenses should not be shared with others.
People who regularly wear prescription contact lenses may find it easier to select a similar cosmetic lens.
The two popular types of cosmetic lenses are:
Gas Permeable Lenses: These contact lenses contain no water component but provide high oxygen through the lens. These lenses are useful for correcting high refractive errors.
Soft Lenses: These lenses are used to correct near sightedness, far sightedness and astigmatism. Soft lenses are wet and flexible and are larger in diameter than the cornea.
The following are the hazards associated with cosmetic contact lenses:

• Eye irritation
• Deposits on the lens
• Eye allergies
• Eye infections
• Eye dryness

The following safety precautions should be taken when wearing cosmetic contact lenses:

• Non-scented and hypoallergenic lenses are preferable as they are more effective
• Always wash your hands before inserting or removing the lenses
• Never lend or borrow cosmetic contact lenses
• Apply makeup only after inserting the cosmetic contact lenses
• Avoid frosted, iridescent eye shadow
• Don't apply face creams too near to the eyes
• Don't expose your eyes to water while wearing cosmetic contact lenses
• Don't apply loose powder to the face once you have installed the lenses
• Cosmetic contact lenses should not be fitted if the eyes are swollen, red or infected