• Get a prescription and proper fitting to avoid the dangers of colored contacts.green lens 2 image by Bosko Martinovic from Fotolia.com
  
  The non-prescription sale of colored contact lenses is no longer acceptable. The FDA now classifies colored and cosmetic lenses as medical devices, safe only when purchased from a qualified eye care professional. All contact lenses, including plano (lenses not intended to improve eyesight) and those meant for vision correction, should be fitted to your individual eyes by a healthcare provider to avoid complications.
  
  

Cuts and Infections

• According to the CBS news television program, The Early Show, there have been documented cases of serious eye injuries directly caused by colored contact lenses. In one such case, Laura Butler decided to alter her eye color by purchasing blue lenses at a novelty store, without a prescription. While driving with her 3-year-old child, the contact lens in her left eye suddenly shifted and sliced her cornea, causing excruciating pain, temporary blindness and ultimately resulting in a serious viral infection. Her opthalmologist informed her that the infection and injury could likely lead to permanent vision loss.
  
  

Toxins

• Although it's illegal to sell cosmetic contact lenses without a prescription, several websites and stores throughout America continue to do so. Many of the Internet sites making colored contact lenses have their products made in Asia, where FDA standards of good manufacturing and production sterility aren't enforceable. In fact, consumers should be aware that some of the pigments used in these colored contacts are known to be toxic and even carcinogenic.
  
  

Vision Impairment

• Unlike clear contacts, decorative lenses have pigment in them. When the eye moves, the contact lens moves, too. If the colored portion slips over the pupil or the pupil changes size due to differences in light, your vision may become impaired.