Quick answer

Yes, you can wear colored contact lenses with astigmatism, but you need specially designed toric lenses that correct astigmatism while adding color. Standard colored lenses won't fit properly and can blur your vision. Look for toric colored lenses like https://urbanlayerhgb.com/products/cleopatra-gray-for-astigmatism-toric-b1eb345601009177e05597ce-436936Cleopatra Gray for Astigmatism (Toric) from Urban Layer, which are custom-made to your prescription.

If you have astigmatism, you might think colored contact lenses are off the table. But that's not true! With advances in lens technology, you can enjoy vibrant eye colors while correcting your vision. This guide explains what astigmatism means for contact lens wear, why regular colored lenses won't work, and how to get the right pair.

We'll walk you through the basics of astigmatism, the difference between standard and toric lenses, and what to consider when ordering colored contacts online. By the end, you'll know exactly how to get a pair that's both stylish and functional.

What is astigmatism and how does it affect contact lens fitting?

Astigmatism is a common refractive error caused by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens. Instead of being perfectly round, the eye is shaped more like a football, causing light to focus on multiple points rather than a single point on the retina. This results in blurred or distorted vision at all distances.

For contact lenses, this means a standard spherical lens won't sit correctly on your eye. It will rotate, causing your vision to fluctuate. Toric lenses are specially designed with different powers in different meridians and a weighted bottom to keep them oriented correctly. They also have a specific axis that must align with your eye's astigmatism.

  • Astigmatism requires a cylindrical (CYL) correction and an axis measurement, which standard colored lenses do not provide.
  • Toric lenses are available in both clear and colored versions, so you don't have to sacrifice aesthetics for vision.

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Why standard colored lenses won't work for astigmatism

Most colored contact lenses, like Berkeley Hazel or Sofia Beige, are spherical lenses designed for eyes without astigmatism. They have a single power across the entire lens, so they cannot correct the cylindrical error caused by astigmatism. Wearing them would leave your vision blurry and could cause eye strain.

Additionally, because they aren't weighted, they may rotate on your eye, which can make the colored pattern look off-center and reduce comfort. For these reasons, eye care professionals generally advise against wearing non-toric colored lenses if you have a significant astigmatism prescription.

  • If your astigmatism is mild (less than 0.75 diopters), you might get away with standard lenses, but it's still risky.
  • For higher astigmatism, toric lenses are the only safe and effective choice for colored contacts.

Your options: toric colored contact lenses

The good news is that some brands offer toric colored lenses. For example, Urban Layer's Cleopatra Gray for Astigmatism (Toric) is a custom-made lens that combines a stylish gray color with astigmatism correction. It has a 14.2mm diameter and 8.7mm base curve, and is made from silicone hydrogel with 40% water content for comfort.

Because toric lenses are custom-ordered, you'll need to provide your full prescription, including sphere (SPH), cylinder (CYL), and axis. The manufacturing time is longer, but the result is a lens that fits perfectly and gives you the look you want.

  • Always order toric lenses from a reputable source that requests your full prescription.
  • Expect a longer wait time for custom toric lenses, as they are made to order.

How to get colored contacts for astigmatism

First, get an up-to-date eye exam and ask your eye doctor for a contact lens fitting. They will measure your eye's curvature and determine your exact prescription, including the axis. This information is essential for ordering toric lenses.

Next, choose a brand that offers toric colored lenses. At Urban Layer, you can find Cleopatra Gray for Astigmatism (Toric). After placing your order, you'll need to email your SPH, CYL, and Axis information to the store, and production will begin once they receive it. This ensures your lenses are made precisely for your eyes.

When your lenses arrive, follow the care instructions and schedule a follow-up with your eye doctor to ensure they fit well and your vision is clear.

  • Never order colored contacts without a valid prescription – it's both unsafe and illegal in many places.
  • If you experience discomfort or blurred vision, stop wearing the lenses and consult your eye care professional.

Diagnosis: Is your astigmatism compatible with colored contacts?

  • Symptom: You have astigmatism and want to wear colored contact lenses, but you're unsure if it's possible or safe. It is possible, but only with toric lenses.
  • Likely cause: Standard colored lenses lack the cylindrical correction and axis alignment needed for astigmatism, leading to blurred vision and discomfort. Toric lenses are the solution.
  • Corrective action: Get a current prescription, order toric colored lenses like Cleopatra Gray for Astigmatism (Toric), and provide your SPH, CYL, and Axis to the store. Follow the ordering instructions carefully.
  • Stop or choose another option: If your astigmatism is severe or you cannot get a toric lens in your preferred color, consider clear toric lenses or skip colored contacts altogether. Never compromise on vision correction.

Product facts: toric colored lenses at Urban Layer

  • Cleopatra Gray for Astigmatism (Toric): DIA size: 14.2mm, B.C: 8.7mm. 2 pieces (1 set) in 1 vial. 1 year replacement. Hydrogel lens with 40% water content. Made in Korea. This is a toric lens for astigmatism, custom-ordered based on your SPH, CYL, and Axis. This is the only toric colored lens in the store, so it's your go-to option for combining astigmatism correction with a colored look.
  • Berkeley Hazel: DIA size: 14.2mm, B.C: 8.7mm. 2 pieces (1 pair) in 1 box, stored in separate blisters. 1 year replacement. Silicone Hydrogel or MPC with 40% water content. Made in Korea. Note: The pupil hole is smaller than normal, which can obstruct vision. This is a standard colored lens, not for astigmatism. It's included to show what's available for those without astigmatism, but you should avoid it if you need toric correction.

Astigmatism doesn't have to stop you from wearing colored contacts. With toric lenses like Cleopatra Gray for Astigmatism (Toric), you can get the look you want without sacrificing clear vision. Always prioritize your eye health by getting a proper prescription and ordering from a reputable source. Explore your options and enjoy a new eye color today!