How to safely wear coloured contact lenses without a prescription

Thinking about switching up your eye colour? Whether it’s for a standout look or a costume, coloured contact lenses can help. Even if you don’t need vision correction, these lenses are still medical devices, just like standard contact lenses, and they must be handled with care.

In this guide, we’ll explain whether you need a prescription, walk through key safety tips, and help you choose the right lens materials and colours for your eyes. You’ll also find essential hygiene advice to make sure you wear them safely.

By the end, you’ll feel confident about wearing coloured contact lenses and ready to order your contact lenses online.

Choosing the right contact lens shade

Choosing the ideal colour depends on your skin tone, hair colour, and the look you want to achieve. For a natural appearance or subtle enhancement, select shades close to your natural eye colour, but with added depth or a slight hue shift. Looking to enhance your natural eye colour or try something bold? FreshLook One Day and FreshLook Illuminate are perfect for a subtle yet noticeable boost, while Air Optix Colors offers a wide palette for a more striking look. For a rich and defined colour with a comfortable fit, Soflens Natural Colors are a must-try.

Four left eyes displaying different coloured contacts

Are Non-Prescription Coloured Contact Lenses Safe?

Non-prescription cosmetic coloured contact lenses are classified as medical devices that come into direct contact with your eyes. Therefore, they are safe to use, if you make sure to apply the same buying and manipulation rules as for standard prescription contact lenses.

Technically, you don’t need a prescription to buy coloured contact lenses. But it’s still a smart idea to book an eye test with your optician before purchasing. Why? Because they’ll help you find the right fit and lens type for each eye. Getting the size and shape right means your lenses will stay comfortably in place and won’t cause irritation, corneal damage, or eye infections like conjunctivitis or keratitis. In short: it’s peace of mind for your eyes.

Choosing CE or FDA approved coloured contact lenses

Whether you're buying coloured contact lenses for Halloween, cosplay or to enhance your natural eye colour, always look for products that are CE-marked or FDA approved. These lenses are classed as medical devices, so they must meet strict safety and hygiene standards.

The CE mark confirms that a product sold in the UK complies with European health and safety laws. Similarly, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) regulates contact lenses in the US. Even if you don’t need vision correction, it’s crucial to wear contact lenses from a trusted retailer. Avoid over-the-counter decorative contact lenses sold in costume shops or novelty stores, which may not be safe or properly regulated. Poorly made lenses can lead to eye infections, eye injury or even long-term vision loss.

Choosing the right contact lens material for best comfort

To maintain eye health and ensure comfort, choose contact lenses made from breathable, high-oxygen materials like silicone hydrogel. These materials reduce the risk of irritation and dry eyes, especially for contact lens wearers who wear lenses for long hours.

For occasional use such as a party, photoshoot or Halloween costume, daily disposable coloured contact lenses are ideal. They are hygienic and easy to use, making them a great option for first-timers or those with sensitive eyes.

If you plan to wear coloured lenses more often, monthly or biweekly lenses might suit you better. These types of contact lenses are made from more durable materials, designed to stay hydrated and comfortable across repeated use. Just remember they require proper care, including disinfecting with suitable contact lens solution and cleaning the case regularly.

How to take care of coloured contact lenses without prescription

Even non prescription coloured contact lenses need the same level of care as vision correction lenses. Follow these hygiene steps to protect your eyes:

Wash and dry your hands thoroughly before touching your lenses

If using two-weekly or monthly lenses, use contact lens solution

Clean and replace your lens case regularly

Avoid contact with lotions, creams or make-up before inserting your contacts

Put lenses in before applying make-up and remove them before taking it off

Never rinse lenses with tap water

Don’t wear contact lenses while swimming or showering

Do not sleep in your lenses, even for a short nap

Always follow the advice of your optician, optometrist or ophthalmologist

By following proper care guidelines, you’ll reduce the risk of corneal abrasions, eye infections and other complications that can arise from poor contact lens habits.

What type of contact lenses should you choose for occasional or frequent use

The best type of contact lens depends on how often you wear them and the look you're after. For one-off events or special occasions such as Halloween or themed parties, daily disposable decorative lenses are convenient and comfortable. They are designed for single use, so you don’t need to worry about storing or disinfecting them.

If you want to change your eye colour more regularly, biweekly or monthly coloured contact lenses offer a cost-effective solution with a broader range of shades. These lenses require daily cleaning and a consistent routine, so they're better suited to experienced contact lens wearers.

Whatever your routine, always prioritise your eye health. Book an eye exam with an optician or eye care professional to ensure a proper fit. A valid prescription, even for cosmetic lenses, helps prevent discomfort and protects your cornea from unnecessary strain.

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How to safely wear coloured contact lenses without a prescription

Choosing the right contact lens shade

How to take care of coloured contact lenses without prescription

What type of contact lenses should you choose for occasional or frequent use