Are cheap contacts really a good idea?
Shop for contact lenses in-store or online, and you might find your eyes gravitating toward the lowest price. This is natural; contacts can be expensive, and you want to save as much money as you can.
But in the case of something you physically place onto your eyeball, are cheap contacts such a good idea?
That depends. “Cheap” can have different meanings for different people:
- Some people think of the most affordable option from a company they know and trust.
- Others search the internet for the cheapest contacts they can find, regardless of a seller’s reputation.
This is where things can get a little sticky. Before you bookmark a cheap contact lens retailer on your internet browser, there are a few major things to consider.
Cheap contact lenses vs. more expensive lenses
Contact lens prices may vary depending on where you buy them — even for a similar type, brand and prescription.
There are a few factors that cause contact lens prices to vary, such as:
- Replacement schedule – Contact lenses are designed by manufacturers for specific replacement schedules, which affects their cost. (However, this comes at the cost of routine lens care). Daily disposable contacts tend to be more expensive than weekly, biweekly and monthly lenses because a new pair is required every day. Longer-lasting contact lenses are designed with more durability.
- Your vision prescription – Soft contact lenses that correct astigmatism (toric lenses) cost more than lenses that don’t.
- Lens features and technology – Some lenses have unique (and sometimes costly) features that offer better breathability, cause less dryness and provide longer-lasting comfort.
- Brand name – Some brand-name lenses have a generic alternative that may come at a lower cost. Note that lenses aren’t a “consumer choice,” like clothes or food, though. Your eye doctor will prescribe exactly what is needed.
- Vision insurance – Your insurance plan may cover some of the cost of your lenses. Check with your provider for details.
These factors can affect price. But as long as the lenses are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and they come from a legitimate contact lens retailer, the lenses should be safe to use.
That being said, certain types of contacts may suit your eyes better than others. Your eye doctor will determine the best option for your vision needs.
SEE RELATED: Contact lens guide for first-time users
Why cheap contacts aren’t always safe
The FDA plays a large role in determining whether contact lenses are safe for use. Contacts have to be FDA-approved because they are medical devices. They must also be fitted and prescribed by an eye doctor during a contact lens eye exam.
Contacts that don’t have FDA approval aren’t safe. And cheap contacts that are sold without requiring a prescription lack quality control, which can make them dangerous. Counterfeit contact lenses are also illegal.
Colored and costume contacts need FDA approval, too. These are also considered medical devices, whether you need them for vision correction or not.
Dangers of cheap and counterfeit contacts
Non-prescription sales, super-cheap lenses and any other questionable contacts should be considered dangerous. It doesn’t matter if it’s an epic pair of Halloween contacts or a box of lenses at an unbeatable price. Fake, counterfeit contacts can threaten your vision health.
Contacts have to be regulated by the FDA and properly fitted for your eyes by an eye doctor. Without this criteria, unregulated contacts can lead to:
Scratches and corneal damage
Cheap, non-prescription contacts haven’t been fitted properly by an eye doctor. And if they don’t fit your eyes correctly, they can irritate the eye, increasing the risk of scratching the clear front surface of the eye (cornea). This is known as corneal abrasion. It’s a painful condition that causes severe pain, redness and light sensitivity. Some may experience eye discharge or have the sensation that something is in their eye.
Corneal abrasion can lead to a corneal ulcer if it does not heal properly or becomes infected.
Eye infections
Corneal scratches that result from wearing poorly fitting contact lenses can create entry points for bacteria that increase the risk of keratitis (corneal infection). Bacterial eye infections can also occur if contacts aren’t cleaned or stored properly.
An infection can cause symptoms, such as redness, pain, blurry vision and more. And you’ll likely need medicated eyedrops to help heal the infection. If left untreated or in severe cases, an infection can cause permanent damage or vision loss.
Exposure to toxins
Harsh dyes or materials in cheap contact lenses can cause eye irritation. In some cases, it can also result in long-term damage.
Chemicals used for the colors in costume lenses may contain harmful substances, like chlorine. These toxic substances can be absorbed into the eye, injuring it. It can even cause you to lose your vision.
Secondary eye problems
Using decorative or cheap contact lenses can also lead to other issues. Recurring infections, corneal abrasion and other issues may increase the risk of other conditions, such as secondary glaucoma or cataracts.
Vision loss or blindness
The risk of wearing contact lenses that are not prescribed by an eye doctor is not worth taking. Severe infections can occur, resulting in long-term complications. One unfortunate example is of a South Carolina man who was blinded in one eye and had to undergo years’ worth of painful eye surgeries when he purchased a pair of $20 colored contacts without a prescription at a gas station. Wearing these lenses resulted in a severe eye infection.
When to see an eye doctor
Contact lenses are safe when prescribed by an eye doctor and purchased from trusted sellers with a prescription. The real danger comes from buying cheap, counterfeit or costume lenses without a prescription from unauthorized sellers. This is because these lenses may not meet safety standards and can harm your eyes. As long as you follow your doctor’s instructions and get your lenses from an approved source, contact lenses are a safe choice.
Stop wearing your contacts and promptly seek care if you experience:
- Pain
- Redness
- Sensitivity to light
- Excessive eye watering
- Eye discharge
- Blurry vision
- Feeling as though something is in your eye
These can be signs of an eye infection caused by your lenses. Irritation can occur due to poor-fitting lenses, poor lens hygiene and subpar materials.
Signs you’re buying risky contacts
Reputable lens manufacturers follow FDA guidelines and strict quality assurance standards. This ensures that their lenses are safe before they’re shipped off to a verified retailer and, eventually, a customer.
But some less-than-legitimate retailers may still find ways to get past these guidelines and sell unauthorized genuine or fake contact lenses. Both of these options can be dangerous.
This isn’t exactly legal, but these companies do exist. Keep a watchful eye on any site that:
- Offers suspiciously low prices, hidden fees or steep discounts.
- Doesn’t require a prescription to order lenses.
- Doesn’t list brand names.
- Lacks any mention of FDA approval.
Some examples of unauthorized contact lens sellers can include:
- Beauty suppliers and salons
- Costume shops
- Boutiques
- Thrift stores
- Convenience stores
- Street vendors
How to buy contacts safely
For the most part, buying contacts online is relatively safe in the 2020s. But if you’re hesitant to do so, you can order contacts directly through your optometrist’s office.
The FDA provides a few general tips for consumers buying contact lenses:
- Use a valid prescription from your eye doctor to order your lenses.
- Order your contacts through a reputable company, preferably one you’re familiar with.
- Request the printed patient information from the manufacturer for your specific type of lens.
- Avoid any substitutions the company suggests or fills without your permission. If it’s verified by your eye doctor, it’s still good to check with your doctor yourself.
- Carefully double-check all measurements and brand information after you get your lenses.
Remember, if it seems too good to be true, it probably is. If you have any doubts, check with your eye doctor and make sure the retailer is safe to buy contacts from.
Protect your eyes from cheap contacts
Wearing FDA-approved lenses and following your eye doctor’s instructions for use can greatly reduce the risk of infections, scratches or other complications.
Talk with your provider about the best lenses for you (and what to avoid). And be sure to schedule a proper fitting when it’s time to renew your prescription. Spending a little more can provide a much safer and comfortable experience in the end.
