Do you need a prescription for colored contacts?

A prescription is required for colored contact lenses. That's true even for cosmetic purposes, including,./ temporary options like spooky red or slitted cat eyes on Halloween.  

Why does an eye care pro need to get involved when you want to zombify your eyes for October or ensure the green in your peepers pops on date night? Because the FDA considers any type of contact lens to be a medical device. Even lenses for changing your eye color sit directly on the surface of your eye, which is delicate and prone to injury or infection if they're improperly fitted or not made from safe materials.

If you plan to put something in your eyes, it pays to get your vision checked out and use safe, high-quality products. Keep reading to learn why you need a prescription for colored contact lenses and how to shop for these products safely. 

Why you need a prescription

Can prescription contacts be colored? Technically, all contacts require a prescription. But if you're wondering whether you can get colored contacts that correct your vision, the answer is sure. However, even contact lenses for fashion require a prescription under law. Here's why:

• To ensure the right fit: Lenses that don’t match your eye shape can cause discomfort, blurred vision, or eye damage.

• To help protect against infections: A prescription exam checks for conditions that could make you more vulnerable to infections or irritation when wearing contacts.

• To confirm you're using contacts made of safe materials: Some off-brand or unregulated lenses may use dyes or materials that can harm your eyes. It's best to avoid these, even when you're buying one-off contact lenses for Halloween.

• To help reduce the risk of eye injuries: Ill-fitting or poor-quality lenses can scratch your cornea, leading to pain or long-term vision issues.

• To support general eye health: Contacts are about as far from one-size-fits-all as you can get. Each person's eye tolerates different lenses to varying degrees, and an eye care professional can recommend the right lenses for you.

How much is it to get a colored contacts prescription?

Colored contacts prescriptions aren't being peddled on the street (certainly not legitimate ones that keep you safe), so you need to schedule an eye exam to get one. 

Here's the good news: You can get an all clear on your vision health or find out if you might need a prescription to correct your vision. The bad news is that you may need to spend a little money.

Eye exams may cost $100 to $300 on average, depending on where you live. If you have vision insurance, it may cover one eye exam annually. You can also call ahead to compare prices or ask if the office offers packages that include a contact lens fitting.

How to get a prescription for colored lenses

Getting a prescription for colored contacts is pretty easy, especially if you have an existing prescription for non-colored lenses. 

Getting a prescription for colored contacts when you've had a valid 'script in the past:

1. Complete an online vision exam to renew your prescription.

2. That's it. No step 2.

Getting a prescription for colored contacts if you've never had a valid prescription:

1. Make an appointment with a local eye care professional. Let them know you're interested in colored contacts.

2. Show up for your in-person eye exam.

3. That's it — step 2, but nothing more than that!

Keep in mind that most states require your contact lens prescription to be updated every 1-2 years. If it’s expired, you need to complete a new exam before ordering colored contacts.

How long does it take to get a prescription for colored contact lenses?

If you only need to re-up your existing prescription, you can do so in minutes from the comfort of your home. No appointment-making phone tag, drive to the office or waiting room time.

If you've never had a prescription for contacts, it takes a bit longer. Some offices may book appointments months in advance, so don't expect to get in for an exam if you decide last minute you want colored contacts with your Halloween costume.

Once you arrive for an in-person appointment, you can expect the process to take around 45 minutes to a couple of hours, depending on how many people are getting exams that day.  

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How to buy colored contacts

Once you've secured the required prescription, it's time to shop for your colored lenses. Luckily, the waiting game is mostly over!

You can buy colored contacts by:

• Shopping with a reputable source: Avoid sources that aren't FDA-approved, such as beauty salons. (Just because your eyes are playing dress-up, doesn't mean you should head to a costume shop for this accessory.)

• Reading reviews: Look for retailers with satisfied customers and a clear return policy. This can help you avoid sketchy sellers or low-quality products.

• Avoiding one-size-fits-all lenses: Spoiler alert: They aren't, and chances are you're going to be among the "all" they don't fit.

• Double-checking that the brand and lens you buy match your prescription: A prescription for colored contacts isn't a fast pass to any lens you want to try. Your lenses need to align with your specific measurements and other factors. If you want to try a new brand, talk to your eye care professional.

• Consider replacement schedules: Some contact lenses can be worn overnight. Some can be worn for several weeks (though you take them out at night), and others are daily disposables. Consider which type best meets your needs — again, talk to your eye care pro to ensure your script conveys that need.

Ready to turn vision correction into a subtle accessory?

Learn how easy it is to order contacts, including colored lenses, at 1-800 Contacts. It's as easy as 1-2-3: Find your brand, enter your 'script, and place your order. 

Did you know you can order contacts online? 

Say goodbye to trips to the eye doctor and hello to convenience! With 1-800 Contacts, you can easily order your contact lenses online and have them delivered straight to your door. Plus, our online vision exam makes it simple to get the prescription you need without leaving home. And the best part? You’ll save money on your first order with 1-800 Contacts. It’s never been easier to get your contacts!

Original author: Austin Brewer

Original publish date: 2/16/2022

Updated date: 10/3/2025