Special Effect Contact Lenses

An interesting variation on traditional contact lenses is special effect lenses. These lenses change the outward appearance of the eye, without actually affecting the eyes themselves. These lenses can be part of Halloween costumes, to change one’s appearance for a movie, play or other performance, or just for a fun and surprising change of pace.

You can use special effect lenses even if you do not normally wear contact lenses. They are also available in prescription form.

What Kind of Special Effect Contact Lenses Are Available?
The most popular special effect contact lenses are the WildEyes line by CIBA brand contact lenses. These lenses come in a variety of effects, such as cat eye, knockout (x’s appear where the pupil should be), wildfire (a sunburst pattern), red hot (a deep red) and hypnotic (a spiral pattern).

How Do I Get Special Effect Contact Lenses Without a Prescription?
You can’t. Even if you do not normally need prescription contact lenses, you will require a prescription for special effect lenses. Special effect contact lenses for those who do not require vision correction still require proper fitting. This has to be administered under the guidance of an eye care professional.

Where Can I Get Special Effect Contact Lenses?
Special effect contact lenses should be available wherever you get normal contact lenses. Do not put special effect contact lenses obtained without a prescription into your eyes. Non-prescription materials inserted into the eye can result in serious and sometimes irreparable eye damage.

How Should I Care for My Special Effect Contact Lenses?
Treat special effect contact lenses like any other contact lenses. You should not wear them at night and you should clean them regularly with approved cleaning solutions. If you have never worn contact lenses before, make sure your eye care professional reviews proper contact lens care techniques with you. He should also tell you how long your special effect contact lenses would last.

If you need to wear contact lenses on a regular basis, you’ll probably want to order some traditional contact lenses to go with your special effect lenses. Special effect lenses are not always appropriate for every occasion, and you may even tire of them if used regularly.