Colored contact lenses have become increasingly popular over the years as a fun and easy way to change up your look. Non-prescription colored contacts in particular provide a temporary eye color change without requiring a prescription from an optometrist. But how long do non-prescription colored contacts actually last before needing to be replaced? Here’s a comprehensive look at the lifespan and replacement schedule for colored contacts without a prescription.
What Are Non-Prescription Colored Contacts?
Non-prescription colored contact lenses, also known as plano colored contacts, are cosmetic contacts designed to change your eye color temporarily. They have no corrective vision powers like prescription contacts, but instead act solely as enhancements for your eyes.
These contacts are available without a prescription from an eye doctor. You can purchase them online or over-the-counter at many pharmacies and retailers. They come in a wide range of vivid shades like emerald, sapphire, and hazel to make your eyes pop.
How Long Can You Safely Wear Colored Contacts?
The safe wear time for non-prescription contacts differs between daily disposables and extended wear lenses:
- Daily colored contacts: These are designed for single use and should be thrown out at the end of each day. Wearing daily contacts longer than the recommended time increases irritation and infection risk.
- Extended wear colored contacts: These can be worn safely while awake and asleep for up to 7 days and 6 nights before replacement. However, it’s recommended to discard these after each use as well for best health and comfort.
Here are some general guidelines for safe colored contact lens wear and care:
| Contact Type | Maximum Safe Wear Time |
|---|---|
| Daily disposables | Up to 12-14 hours while awake |
| Extended wear | Up to 7 days/6 nights |
Exceeding the recommended wear schedule increases the buildup of deposits, allergens and microbes on the lenses. This can lead to eye redness, irritation, infection risk and impaired vision over time. Being diligent about proper wear time, lens cleaning and replacement is key for maintaining eye health.
How Long Do Unopened Colored Contacts Last?
The shelf life for unopened boxes or blister packs of colored contacts can range from 1-2 years on average. Always check the manufacturer’s printed expiration date to determine if unused contacts are still valid. The expiration dates are calculated from the time of manufacturing, not the purchase date.
Certain lens materials like silicone hydrogel may have a longer shelf life of up to 3 years unopened. However, traditional hydrogel contacts tend to expire quicker within 1-1.5 years before opening.
Proper storage is important for maintaining the shelf life. Keep unopened colored contact boxes away from moisture, direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Store them at moderate room temperature in a clean, dry place.
Before using expired colored contacts, do a simple quality inspection:
- Check that the packaging and seal appear intact, not damaged.
- Look for any discoloration or torn lenses.
- Apply the lens to see if it feels moist and stays clear, without stickiness or haziness.
- Stop use immediately if you experience any redness, irritation or discomfort when applying.
What Affects How Long Colored Contacts Will Last?
Several factors impact the usable lifespan of colored contact lenses:
1. Material
The lens material affects durability and how long contacts remain clear and comfortable:
- Silicone hydrogel – Lasts up to 1 full year opened.
- Traditional hydrogel – Lasts up to 6 months opened.
- Rigid gas permeable – Lasts up to 1 full year opened.
2. Wear schedule
Less frequent wear extends the lifespan versus daily wear. Disposable contacts worn only 2-3 times per week can last up to 6 months opened.
3. Lens care
Proper cleaning using contact lens solution significantly prolongs lifespan. Rubbing lenses between fingers shortens lifespan by spreading oils and microbes.
4. Exposure
Environmental factors like dust, debris and tap water exposure can coat lenses and shorten how long they last before replacement.
How to Make Your Colored Contacts Last
Here are some tips for making your colored contacts last as long as possible:
- Start with fresh lenses – Don’t reuse old or expired lenses, which are more prone to damage.
- Alternate eyes – Rotate between two pairs to allow contacts to fully air out overnight.
- Use lens cases – Store in clean contact cases instead of swimming in solution to limit microbes.
- Rub and rinse – Gently rub and rinse lenses with solution, don’t just soak them.
- Replace solution – Change contact lens solution daily or as directed for clean storage.
- Avoid sleeping in lenses – Take colored contacts out before sleeping to maximize comfort and safety.
- Schedule replacement – Throw out old lenses regularly even if no damage is visible.
Signs Your Colored Contacts Need Replacement
Even with good care, colored contacts gradually wear out over time. Replace them immediately if you notice any of the following signs:
- Red or irritated eyes
- Blurry, hazy or impaired vision
- Lens discomfort or pain when inserted
- Excessive deposits or discoloration
- Torn, ripped or damaged lenses
- Poor fit to the eye
- Solutions no longer wet lenses properly
Don’t try to “push through” the use of old irritated contacts that need replacing. This can damage your eyes and increase infection risk over time.
How to Dispose of Used Colored Contacts
It’s important to properly dispose of used colored contact lenses rather than simply tossing them in the trash. Here are some safe disposal methods:
- Use enzymatic contact lens cleaner to disinfect and neutralize lenses before disposal.
- Place lenses in a rigid plastic contact lens case filled with solution and snap the case closed.
- Seal the contact case in a plastic bag before putting in household trash to contain bacteria.
- Alternatively, bring used contacts back to your eye doctor’s office for disposal.
Never flush contacts down the drain or toilet, as they can damage plumbing and the environment.
Conclusion
With proper wear, care and regular replacement, non-prescription colored contacts can safely enhance your eyes for cosmetic use. Daily disposables should be thrown out nightly, while extended wear lenses can last up to 1 week when not sleeping in them. Discard colored contacts after 1-6 months of use and replace immediately at the first sign of damage or irritation. Following the manufacturer guidelines and your eye doctor’s advice allows you to enjoy the dramatic, fun look of colored contacts while maintaining your long-term eye health.