Do you need a prescription for colored contacts in the US?
Yes, even for plano lenses. Here is how it works.
Yes. In the United States every contact lens, including colored lenses with no vision correction (plano), is a medical device and requires a valid prescription from an eye doctor. Sellers must verify the prescription before shipping.
Why a prescription is required
The FDA regulates all contact lenses as medical devices. A lens that does not fit your eye can scratch the cornea or lead to infection, so an eye doctor checks the fit and the health of your eyes before prescribing.
What the seller has to do
Under the Fairness to Contact Lens Consumers Act and the FTC Contact Lens Rule, an online seller may only sell lenses with a valid prescription. The seller either receives a copy of your prescription or verifies it with your eye doctor before the order ships.
What to have ready
- Your eye doctor’s name and phone number, or a photo of your prescription.
- The power for each eye (or 0.00 for plano), plus base curve and diameter if listed.
- The expiry date: in the US a contact lens prescription is normally valid for at least one year.
At Beauty Vision
You choose the power for each eye on the product page and confirm the prescription requirement. Your prescription is checked before your order ships.
Sources: FDA: colored and decorative contact lenses; FTC Contact Lens Rule. This guide is general information, not legal or medical advice.