Function

• Colored contacts are cosmetic accessories used by people interested in temporarily changing their eye color. You can buy colored contacts without a prescription, so consulting with an eye doctor before purchasing colored lenses is unnecessary.
  
  

Types

• Colored contacts are available in three varieties: opaque tints, visibility tints and enhancement tints, according to Allaboutvision.com. They are also available for those with astigmatism.
  
  

Time Frame

• Colored contacts should not be worn overnight or for long periods of time, unless your eye doctor tells you otherwise. This is because they may dry up and stick to your iris, reports Lindisima.com. Long use may also cause the contacts to crack and retain dirt.
  
  

Warning

• Since colored contacts are sterile upon opening, they aren't bad for you unless you misuse or improperly handle them.
  
  

Expert Insight

• Proper hygiene and handling can help prevent infection when using colored contact lenses. Always wash your hands before and after handling the lenses and never allow someone else to wear them, suggests Coloredcontacts.com.