As you might expect, colored contact lenses that enhance or change the appearance of your eye color may cost more than standard soft contact lenses that are clear or have a light blue handling tint.
The cost of colored contact lenses can vary.
Why do colored contact lenses cost more?
Colored contacts can be slightly more expensive than regular contact lenses for several reasons. First, there are additional research and development costs involved in producing colored lenses. Lens manufacturers have to determine the more popular colors and then develop methods to apply tints to the lenses so they look natural on the eye.
Although color contact lenses cost more than comparable non-tinted contacts, many people find the eye color change to be worth it.
The tinting process can also increase manufacturing costs, especially for custom color contact lenses since they are produced individually.
A number of other factors can increase the cost of colored contact lenses, including:
Special-effect contact lenses. Also called theatrical contact lenses, costume contact lenses and gothic contact lenses, these are popular for Halloween and costume parties.
Custom color contacts. These are hand-painted and individually produced. An example of custom color contacts are prosthetic contact lenses that are designed to mask a scarred or otherwise deformed eye.
Remember, colored contact lenses — even if they have no corrective power and are being purchased solely to change the appearance of your eye color — are medical devices and cannot be purchased legally in the United States without a valid prescription written by a licensed eye doctor.
Prior to being issued a contact lens prescription, you must undergo a contact lens fitting so your eye doctor can make sure the lenses fit you properly and that your eyes can safely tolerate contact lens wear.
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