• Contact lenses are medical devices that require proper fitting from an eye care practitioner to ensure safety and comfort.

• The market has shifted towards natural beauty enhancement, with consumers preferring subtle tones over bold colours.

• The future of colour contact lenses lies in combining aesthetic appeal with eye health, ensuring wearers can enjoy beauty without compromising comfort.

However, MOG Eyewear Optometrist Vivien Kee Chia Ling emphasised that consulting an eye care practitioner( ECP) before using these lenses was essential.

" Contact lenses are still medical devices that sit directly on your eyes," Vivien noted. " Just like skincare is tailored to your skin type, lenses must be tailored to your eye shape, tear quality, and lifestyle."

This essential step ensures that lenses fit correctly, supply sufficient oxygen to the cornea, and accommodate individual eye conditions. Overlooking professional advice could result in discomfort or serious complications such as infections and corneal damage.

DIVERSE MARKET OF CHOICES

The beauty lens market has witnessed a remarkable transformation, evolving from dramatic makeovers to a subtler enhancement of natural beauty.

" Today’ s wearers want lenses that elevate their natural eye colour," she explained.

This shift reflects a growing preference for soft browns, hazel tones, and gentle greys, moving away from the bolder colour transformations of the past.

Safety remains a key concern. Vivien advised consumers to buy only KKM-

Vivien Kee Chia Ling

Setapak Central Mall MOG Eyewear Optometrist Vivien Kee Chia Ling and Branch Manager Aivern Loo Jiunn Wen

" Treat your lenses as a medical device, not a fashion accessory."

- Vivien Kee Chia Ling

approved lenses from licensed optical stores, as unregulated products, often available online or in beauty shops, can pose serious health risks.

At MOG, the philosophy is clear: " True beauty starts with healthy eyes," she stated, emphasising the importance of quality materials fitted by qualified professionals.

RIGHT LENS MATERIAL

Selecting the appropriate lens material is essential, particularly for those with specific eye conditions. The two predominant types of lens materials are hydrogel and silicone hydrogel.

While hydrogel lenses are soft and comfortable, they permit less oxygen to reach the eye. Conversely, silicone hydrogel lenses provide superior oxygen permeability, greatly improving comfort, particularly for wearers who use lenses for long periods.

For people with dry or sensitive eyes, Vivien suggested silicone hydrogel lenses as a perfect option. " They combine breathability, comfort, and aesthetic design," she noted.

Moreover, for those with unique eye shapes or conditions, rigid gas-permeable( RGP) contact lenses may still be necessary for optimal vision correction.

ESSENTIAL CARE FOR FIRST-TIME WEARERS

For newcomers to contact lenses, Vivien ' s advice is straightforward: " Treat your lenses as a medical device, not a fashion accessory."

Proper care is vital for both comfort and eye health. She highlighted the importance of hand hygiene before handling lenses and the need for a strict cleaning regimen using multipurpose solutions.

Furthermore, she emphasised the importance of following replacement schedules and giving eyes a rest by avoiding overnight wear. For those prioritising convenience, daily disposable lenses are an ideal choice, removing cleaning troubles and reducing the risk of infection.

FUTURE OF BEAUTY AND COLOUR LENSES

Vivien foresees continued innovations in the beauty and colour contact lens market. " Manufacturers are placing more emphasis on ocular health, comfort, and safety alongside aesthetic design.”

The introduction of high-oxygen-permeable silicone hydrogel materials marks a significant advancement, enabling healthier lens wear while decreasing dryness.

Additionally, the trend towards daily disposable colour lenses is increasing, providing a safer choice for younger or first-time wearers.

As the market evolves, the integration of fashion with function remains key, enabling consumers to enjoy the aesthetic benefits of colour lenses without sacrificing eye health.

As the popularity of beauty and colour contact lenses continues to increase, the message is clear: prioritising eye health is essential. The pursuit of beauty should never endanger the health of one ' s eyes.- The HEALTH

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