Thinking about getting vampire eyes for a Halloween party, or maybe your next cosplay character has stunning purple irises? Whatever your reason, coloured contact lenses can instantly transform your look — whether you have perfect vision or already wear prescription lenses.

But before you pop in a pair, it’s important to understand how to wear coloured contacts safely. Just like standard contacts, cosmetic lenses are medical devices and must be treated with care. Improper use can lead to serious eye damage — and in some cases, permanent vision loss.

If you’re planning to buy coloured contact lenses online or in-store, read on. Here are 8 essential tips to help you colour your eyes safely and confidently.

1. Book an Eye Exam with an Optometrist

In Australia, coloured contact lenses are classified as medical devices, whether they’re for vision correction or purely cosmetic. Even if you’re only wearing them for a costume or a one-off event, an eye exam and proper fitting are essential.

Poorly fitted lenses can scratch your cornea, restrict oxygen flow, or cause painful infections like keratitis. An optometrist will measure your eyes, check for any pre-existing conditions, and advise you on whether coloured contacts are suitable for you.

2. Always Get a Prescription — Even for Non-Prescription Lenses

Even if you don’t need vision correction, your lenses still need to be the correct size and shape for your eyes. A prescription ensures that the contacts you order online or buy in-store are safe and properly fitted.

3. Steer Clear of Unregulated Circle and Anime Lenses

Be cautious with cosmetic or novelty contact lenses.

Oversized and decorative lenses, often used for special occasions or costumes, can pose health risks if they haven’t been properly safety-checked. Many of these lenses are purchased from overseas and may not be regulated. To protect your eye health, always buy contact lenses from trusted sources and follow professional fitting and care instructions.

They may not allow enough oxygen to reach your eyes, which increases the risk of dryness, discomfort, and serious eye infections.

Love the “big eye” look?
For a safe and stunning effect, chat with your optometrist about options that suit your eyes and follow their guidance on fit and care. You can also enhance the look with clever eye makeup and lashes — a little glam goes a long way!

4. Only Buy from Reliable Retailers

To keep your eyes safe, always buy coloured contact lenses from trusted and reliable retailers. Reputable stores offer genuine products and provide clear instructions for safe lens use and care. Be cautious of unknown sellers or extremely low prices — they can be red flags for poor quality or counterfeit products.

• Market stalls or flea markets

• Costume or novelty shops

• Social media sellers

• Convenience stores or beauty salons

When in doubt, choose trusted optical retailers.
Look for sellers with a strong reputation, clear product information, and dedicated customer support. Trusted retailers offer genuine products and provide proper care guidance to help you wear your lenses safely and comfortably.

5. Never Share Your Contact Lenses

Sharing might be caring, but definitely not when it comes to contact lenses. Even if they’re just for fun, coloured lenses are not one-size-fits-all.

Swapping lenses with a mate can cause scratches, irritation, and bacterial or viral infections like conjunctivitis (pink eye). Your lenses are tailored for your eyes only — don’t risk it.

6. Use Them Within Their Expiry and Recommended Wear Time

If you’re wearing coloured contacts just for a night out or a costume event, opt for daily disposables. They’re hygienic, convenient, and ideal for occasional wear.

Even reusable lenses have a shelf life. Don’t store your lenses beyond their recommended wearing period (e.g., 2 weeks or 1 month) once opened — the risk of contamination increases, even in solution. Always follow the recommended disposal timeline to protect your eye health.

7. Follow Proper Contact Lens Hygiene

To wear coloured contacts safely, clean hands are non-negotiable. Always wash and dry your hands before handling lenses. Use only sterile, approved contact lens solution — never tap water or saliva (yes, people really do this!).

Clean your lens case regularly, replace it every 1–3 months, and follow all hygiene instructions provided with your lenses.

For more information click this link: Contact lens safety tips 

8. Listen to Your Eyes — and Your Optometrist

Stick to your optometrist’s recommendations regarding how long you should wear your contacts each day, and follow all care instructions closely.

If you experience redness, blurry vision, persistent pain, or sensitivity to light, remove your lenses immediately and book an eye check-up. These could be early signs of infection or damage — and prompt treatment is crucial.

Symptoms of eye infections – Healthdirect

Change Your Eye Colour the Safe Way

From cosplay conventions to Halloween parties or just experimenting with your look, coloured contact lenses can be a fun and bold way to express yourself. But they’re not just a costume accessory — they’re medical devices that require care and responsibility.

By following these 8 tips and only buying coloured contact lenses from trusted providers, you can enjoy a safe and stunning transformation.

Your vision is precious — take care of it, and have fun responsibly.

Shop our range of contact lenses at Savelens now and find the perfect colour for your next adventure!