Common Problems with Coloured Contact Lenses and How to Solve Them

Quick Answer

Most common coloured contact lens problems—dryness, blurry vision, and irritation—stem from poor lens fit, improper cleaning, or wearing lenses too long. Start by reviewing your care routine and wearing schedule. If symptoms persist, stop wearing the lenses and consult an eye care professional.

Coloured contact lenses can transform your look, but they come with their own set of challenges. Whether you're new to them or a seasoned wearer, issues like dryness, blurry vision, or a feeling that something is in your eye can happen. The good news: many of these problems are easy to fix once you understand what's causing them.

In this guide, we'll walk through the most frequent coloured contact lens problems, explain what's likely behind them, and give you clear steps to solve each one. We'll also point out when it's time to stop troubleshooting and see a professional.

Problem 1: Dry Eyes and Discomfort

Dryness is one of the most common complaints among coloured contact lens wearers. Lenses can reduce oxygen flow to the eye and absorb moisture from your tear film, leaving your eyes feeling scratchy or tired. This is especially true if you spend long hours in front of screens or in air-conditioned rooms.

First, check how long you've been wearing your lenses. Most daily wear lenses are designed for 8-10 hours; exceeding that can dry out your eyes. Try using preservative-free rewetting drops that are safe for contact lenses. Also, consider switching to a lens material that offers better moisture retention. Some premium lenses, like the Bella Elite - Silky Gold, are designed for everyday comfort with a natural enhancement that doesn't compromise on hydration.

If dryness persists, it might be a sign that your lens doesn't fit well or your eyes need a break. Give your eyes a day off from lenses and see if symptoms improve. If not, an eye care professional can check for underlying conditions like dry eye syndrome.

• Always wash your hands before handling lenses to avoid transferring oils that can worsen dryness.
• Keep a contact-lens-safe rewetting drop in your bag for quick relief.

Problem 2: Blurry Vision

Blurry vision with coloured contacts can be frustrating. It often happens if the lens is not centered correctly on your eye, or if protein deposits have built up on the lens surface. Another culprit: wearing lenses that don't match your prescription or base curve.

Start by checking if your lens is properly positioned. Look in a mirror and gently move the lens to the centre of your eye. If you've been wearing the same pair for a long time, clean them thoroughly with the recommended solution. For monthly or bi-weekly lenses, replacing them on schedule is crucial—overworn lenses accumulate deposits that distort vision.

If blurriness continues, your prescription may have changed or the lens may not be suitable for your eyes. Stop wearing the lenses and book an eye exam. Never ignore persistent blurry vision, as it can signal a more serious issue.

• Never use water or saliva to rinse your lenses—use fresh contact lens solution only.
• Keep a spare pair of glasses handy in case you need to remove your lenses suddenly.

Problem 3: Irritation and Redness

Redness and a burning sensation are signs that your eyes are reacting to something. This could be due to a tear in the lens, an allergic reaction to your solution, or simply that the lens is not allowing enough oxygen to your cornea.

First, remove your lenses immediately. Inspect them for any damage. If they look torn or scratched, discard them and use a fresh pair. If the lenses are fine, consider switching to a preservative-free solution or a different lens material. Some people are sensitive to certain preservatives in multipurpose solutions.

If your eyes remain red or painful after a few hours, see an eye care professional right away. Persistent irritation can lead to corneal ulcers or infections, which are serious. Also, avoid wearing lenses while your eyes are still recovering.

• Never sleep in your coloured contacts unless specifically approved by your eye doctor.
• Replace your lens case every three months to prevent bacterial buildup.

Diagnosis Guide: When to Fix It Yourself vs. See a Professional

• Mild Dryness: Occasional dryness that improves with rewetting drops and shorter wear time. Try rewetting drops and ensure proper lens care. If it persists, switch to a lens designed for comfort.
• Blurry Vision: Vision clears after repositioning the lens or cleaning it. If blurriness continues after cleaning and recentering, stop wearing and see an eye doctor.
• Persistent Redness or Pain: Redness, pain, or light sensitivity that doesn't improve after removing lenses. Remove lenses immediately and consult an eye care professional within 24 hours.

Products That Can Help

• Bella Elite - Silky Gold: These lenses provide a natural enhancement with a faint limbal ring, perfect for everyday wear. If your problem is dryness or discomfort with thicker lenses, the Bella Elite's natural design may feel lighter on the eye while still giving you a subtle gold hue.
• London Sky Natural Grey Coloured Contact Lenses: Silvery grey tones make for a look that is iridescent. The London Collection has been exclusively designed for a super strong colour to completely transform your eye colour whilst looking as natural as possible. For those who want a dramatic yet natural-looking colour change, these lenses are designed to be opaque and comfortable, reducing the risk of blurry vision from poor colour overlay.

By understanding the common problems with coloured contact lenses and knowing how to address them, you can enjoy a comfortable, clear-eyed experience. Always prioritize your eye health—when in doubt, remove your lenses and seek professional advice.