1. If you’re going to try colored contacts, your first step should be getting an thorough eye examination. This is the only way to make sure that contact lenses will fit properly and have the correct curvature and prescription. Your optician will also be able to assess the health of your eyes to make sure the lenses chosen are appropriate.

2. Decide on a brand of color contact lenses to go for. While you may be offered professional recommendations of the best ones to use when you have them fitted, it’s always a good idea to research them first so you know what you’re looking for. There’s such a vast amount of prescription colored contacts to choose from, that it’s best to learn about some of them first rather than having to make a decision on the spot.

3. When you’re ready to order your prescription lenses, use a reliable, reputable source that carries name brands. While it is often a temptation to go with an ‘off’ brand because of price, you can end up with lenses that have not been subjected to adequate testing and quality control. Lenses that do not correct your vision properly or cause damage to your eyes are not a bargain. The purchase of colored contact lenses is no time to go bargain hunting.

4. Always make sure your eyes have got the correct prescription before choosing colored contacts. Eyes need to be properly measured to make sure the lens will fit comfortably, and the strength needs to be right so you can see properly when using them.

5. Now for the fun. You get to decide the color you want. You can be subtle and pick something that simply enhances your eyes. You can change from blue to brown or hazel. You can decide you want one blue eye and one brown. These are a few of the options available to you.

6. Before you leave the optician’s office, make sure you understand how to take care of your new lenses. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you don’t understand a procedure, ask for a demonstration. Check with your eye care professional for brands of solutions for cleaning and storing your new contacts. Using a good solutions properly are necessary to avoid damage to your eyes or to your lenses.

7. Play by the rules. Take your contacts out before you go to bed. Doing so will help you avoid infections and eye damage. Ask your optician about rotating the use of colored contacts with clear contacts to maintain the health of your eyes.

8. Remember that your new prescription colored contact can cause some irritation at first. If you feel that the irritation has gone on too long, consult your optician. Once you are used to your new contacts, you’ll find that your vision is corrected and you have a great fashion accessory as well.