How to Choose Coloured Contact Lenses: The Ultimate Guide for UK Wearers

Coloured contact lenses have become one of the most exciting ways to transform your look, whether you’re after a subtle enhancement or a dramatic change. From soft hazel tones to striking grey, blue, or even violet, coloured lenses allow you to express your style in a unique way — and you don’t even need a prescription to enjoy them.

But with so many options on the market in the UK, how do you choose the right coloured contact lenses for your eyes, lifestyle, and safety? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know — from choosing colours that suit your skin tone to understanding prescription types, comfort levels, and care.

1. Understanding Coloured Contact Lenses

Coloured contact lenses come in two main types: prescription and non-prescription (cosmetic).

• Prescription lenses correct your vision while adding colour to your eyes. You’ll need a valid contact lens prescription from an optician in the UK.

• Non-prescription lenses, also known as cosmetic or fashion lenses, only change the colour or design of your eyes and don’t affect your vision.
  

Even if you’re buying purely cosmetic lenses, it’s essential to buy from a reputable UK retailer. Poor-quality or unlicensed lenses can cause eye irritation, infections, or worse — so always look for lenses that meet UK safety standards (CE marked and MHRA approved).

2. Types of Coloured Lenses by Effect

Different types of coloured lenses achieve different results, depending on the natural shade of your eyes.

• Enhancement tints: These are semi-transparent lenses designed to enhance your natural eye colour rather than completely change it. Ideal for people with light eyes who want a subtle, natural boost.

• Opaque tints: These lenses completely cover your natural iris colour, allowing you to dramatically change your eye colour — for example, from brown to blue or green. Perfect for dark-eyed wearers.

• Visibility tints: These are lightly tinted so you can see them while inserting or removing them, but they don’t change your eye colour.
  

Some brands even offer special-effect lenses, often used for fancy dress or cosplay — from cat eyes to zombie whites — but those are typically for short-term or theatrical use.

3. Choosing a Colour That Suits You

The most exciting part of buying coloured contact lenses is picking the right shade. The key is to choose colours that complement your skin tone, hair colour, and natural eye colour.

For Light Eyes

If your eyes are naturally light (blue, grey, or green), you can experiment with both subtle and bold looks.

• For a natural enhancement: Try grey, aqua, or light brown lenses.

• For a dramatic effect: Go for vibrant colours like amethyst, turquoise, or honey.
  

For Dark Eyes

Dark eyes need opaque tints to achieve noticeable colour changes.

• For a natural effect: Choose rich browns, hazels, or dark green tones.

• For bold looks: Try grey or blue opaque lenses for a striking transformation.
  

Matching Skin Tone

• Fair skin: Soft blue, violet, or light grey lenses look natural and elegant.

• Medium or olive skin: Honey, hazel, or green lenses create a warm, balanced effect.

• Dark skin: Bright colours like amethyst, sapphire blue, or metallic grey can stand out beautifully.
  

If you’re unsure, you can always try daily disposable coloured lenses before committing to a long-term type. That way, you can test how different colours look and feel without much hassle.

4. Choosing the Right Wear Duration

Coloured contact lenses come in various wear schedules, depending on how often you plan to use them.

• Daily lenses: Ideal for occasional use or first-timers. You wear them once and dispose of them at the end of the day — no cleaning required.

• Monthly lenses: Designed for regular wear. They’re more cost-effective if you wear coloured lenses frequently, but you must clean and store them properly.

• Two-week lenses: A balance between convenience and cost, suitable for moderate use.
  

Always follow the replacement schedule recommended by the manufacturer or your optician. Overusing lenses can cause dryness, irritation, and increased risk of infection.

5. Comfort and Material Matter

While colour and style are important, comfort should never be compromised. High-quality lenses are made from breathable materials that allow oxygen to reach your cornea.

• Silicone hydrogel lenses are known for excellent oxygen permeability and all-day comfort.

• Hydrogel lenses are softer and may suit those with sensitive eyes but might dry out faster.
  

If you have dry eyes, look for lenses with moisture-lock technology or higher water content. You can also use rewetting drops recommended by your optician.

6. Safety First: Where to Buy in the UK

Buying coloured contact lenses online is convenient, but not all retailers meet UK safety regulations. Always buy from trusted brands, such as Bella Lenses UK and stores that are CE marked and approved by the MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency).

Avoid cheap or unverified lenses from marketplaces or costume shops — they might not meet health standards and could harm your eyes.

Some reputable UK retailers include:

• Vision Direct UK

• Feel Good Contacts

• Boots Opticians

• Specsavers
  

When in doubt, ask your optician for advice. They can help you choose lenses that fit properly and ensure they don’t cause irritation or blurred vision.

7. Care and Hygiene Tips

Proper care is essential for keeping your eyes healthy while using coloured lenses.

• Always wash and dry your hands before touching your lenses.

• Never sleep with your lenses in (unless specifically designed for overnight wear).

• Use fresh lens solution every day and clean your storage case regularly.

• Never share lenses with others — this can spread bacteria and infections.
  

If you experience redness, discomfort, or blurred vision, remove your lenses immediately and consult your optician.

8. Coloured Lenses for Special Occasions

Coloured contacts aren’t just for daily wear — they can be the perfect finishing touch for special occasions.

• Weddings: Subtle enhancement lenses can make your eyes sparkle in photos.

• Parties & Halloween: Special-effect lenses add an unforgettable touch to your costume.

• Fashion & Photoshoots: Experiment with bold colours for a creative, standout look.
  

Just remember to buy in advance and test them before the event to make sure they feel comfortable and look as you imagined.

9. Can You Get Prescription Coloured Lenses in the UK?

Yes! Many UK opticians and online retailers offer coloured contact lenses that correct your vision while changing your eye colour. You’ll need a valid prescription from an optometrist, which includes details such as base curve, diameter, and power for each eye.

Prescription coloured lenses are available in most common vision types:

• Myopia (short-sightedness)

• Hyperopia (long-sightedness)

• Astigmatism (toric coloured lenses)
  

Always have a professional fitting before purchasing — even if you’ve worn contacts before.

10. Final Tips Before Buying

1. Get an eye test – Ensure your eyes are healthy and the lenses fit properly.

2. Choose trusted brands – Always buy CE-marked, MHRA-approved lenses.

3. Start with daily lenses – Great for testing colours and comfort.

4. Check reviews – Look for photos from real UK customers.

5. Follow care guidelines – Hygiene keeps your eyes safe and your lenses lasting longer.
   

In Summary

Choosing the perfect coloured contact lenses is about balancing style, comfort, and safety. Whether you’re looking for a subtle enhancement or a total transformation, there’s a shade and style for everyone.

For UK users, the best approach is to:

• Always buy from licensed retailers

• Follow proper hygiene

• And select colours that complement your natural beauty
  

With the right pair, your eyes can become your most striking accessory — expressive, confident, and uniquely you.