Those who appreciate and value the ability to wear contact lenses also know that there is a level of responsibility that must always be exercised due to the eye health factors involved.

The major reason people choose contact lenses is that they are the vision correction option that best approximates the natural free feeling of going without glasses. Contacts have become more convenient in recent years, due to advances in materials and technology that have extended wear times and widened the range of vision correction. Now that federal law requires that wearers have a copy of their lens prescription, obtaining contact lenses has become easier through online retailers and other sources.

And this is where personal responsibility in choosing lenses has become more important.

Despite the necessity of a valid prescription (renewed annually through an exam with your eye doctor), the increased ease of shopping for contact lenses and the introduction of many types of non-corrective cosmetic lenses has allowed them, in some people’s minds, to become more of a fashion accessory and not a medical device. Teens and young adult wearers have become susceptible to this mindset and have tended to lump contact lenses with t-shirts, shoes, jewelry and other trendy items that are sometimes shared with others. This is a dangerous practice. Nothing illustrates this more than the recent explosion in popularity of circle contact lenses among young girls in an effort to achieve the ‘enormous eyes’ sported by current pop singer Lady Gaga in a music video. These lenses (which give wearers a large-eyed look, much like what is seen in Japanese anime and manga) are illegal in the United States without prescription, but are nevertheless available for purchase on the Internet. Medical and legal warnings are being bypassed in favor of looking ‘cool’. Definitely not ‘cool’ are the results from irresponsible use of these lenses: pain, inflammation, corneal abrasions, and infections that can cause blindness.

It is not difficult to be a responsible contact lens wearer. Just stick to the basics that have proven healthy and effective for years. Only your eye doctor can properly prescribe and fit your contacts. Have regular eye exams to monitor any developments that can affect your ability to continue with your lenses. Discuss any voluntary changes in regards to lens brands or styles with your eye doctor. Follow all care, cleaning, and wear-time instructions from your doctor and contact lens manufacturer. Do not be swayed by fads until you investigate the latest ‘chic’ lens product to see if it can be prescribed safely.

When it comes to contact lenses, there is never any time when it is ‘okay’ to ignore the health concerns of these necessarily controlled medical devices. Responsible behavior in your approach to contacts is the best way to avoid damaging your vision, thus jeopardizing the freedom and convenience contacts add to your lifestyle.