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Contact Lenses and Makeup: Complete Guide

Wearing contact lenses and makeup together is something millions of people do every day. Eye care professionals recommend a specific routine for anyone who wears both contact lenses and makeup, and the differences between getting it right and getting it wrong are more significant than most people realise. Get it right and your look is polished, your lenses stay comfortable, and your eyes stay healthy.

How long can you wear contact lenses per day?

Quick answer 

Most opticians recommend wearing contact lenses for no longer than 10 to 12 hours per day. The exact limit depends on your lens type, whether your lenses are approved for overnight wear, and your individual eye health. Always follow your optician’s specific guidance. 

What happens if you wear contact lenses for too long?

Wearing your contact lenses for too long deprives your eyes of oxygen, which can lead to redness, discomfort, blurry vision, and a higher risk of infection. Most soft lenses are safe to wear for 8 to 12 hours a day. If your eyes feel sore or irritated, remove your lenses straight away and give your eyes time to rest.

What is base curve and diameter on contact lenses?

When you order contact lenses, you’ll see measurements listed on your prescription and packaging — most commonly BC (base curve) and DIA (diameter).

These numbers determine how your contact lenses fit on your eye. A correct fit helps ensure:

  • Clear, stable vision
  • Comfortable wear throughout the day
  • Healthy contact lens movement
  • Proper oxygen flow to the cornea

Even small differences in these measurements can affect how your lenses feel and perform.

Grey Eyes

Often admired for their light appearance, grey eyes stand out for their complexity and distinctiveness. They differ from other light-coloured eyes not just in hue, but in structure, melanin concentration, and how light interacts with the iris.

The subtle interplay of light gives them a unique depth, often shifting slightly in tone depending on the environment. These characteristics make grey eye colour both rare and fascinating to explore.