Color Contacts and UV Protection

Many color contact users believe that because their contacts are UV absorbing, that they can substitute for sunglasses. In fact, color contacts have been linked to UV radiation. This in turn can result in cataracts and macular degeneration and can be associated with cancerous growths on the eyeball. According to Thomas Steinemann, an ophthalmologist in Cleveland and spokesman for the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Therefore it is absolutely necessary to use protective UV absorbing eyewear when you go out in the sun. Color contacts are not large enough to protect the entire eyeball. Contacts alone only cover a portion of your eyeball.

Color contact lens manufacturers agree. The company that makes Acuvue Colours suggest that you should continue to use UV-absorbing eyewear as directed. Preferably eyewear that blocks 90 to 95 percent of both kinds of ultraviolet radiation. Acuvue lenses come in different shades, and you can get an eye care professional to prescribe them even if you don't need vision correction.

UV blocking color contact lenses are designed to compliment sunglasses not to be a substitute. There are no studies that suggest contacts as an alternative, and in fact, there are no studies that suggest UV absorbing contact lenses will reduce the chances of medical problems from over exposure to the sun.
When out in the sun wear sunglasses that adequately cover your entire eye. Check the UV blocking level of your sunglasses to make sure they are good enough to give you the necessary care.