AskTheContactLensGuy

I have seen mirrored contact lenses in the movies. I think Vin Diesel wore them in Riddick. Are mirrored lenses available to the public? And if so, where can I get some?

Mirrored contact lenses exist and they are available. They are definitely more specialized than say your average “cat eye” theatrical lenses.

The mirrored lens is actually a gas permeable contact lens that is only available in one base curve and it does not have any corrective power in it. The concept is to use the gas permeable lens on top of a soft disposable lens. This setup, where a GP lens is worn over a soft lens is called a piggy back contact lens fitting.

Compared to only wearing a soft theatrical contact lens, the mirrored gas perm over a soft lens is not nearly as comfortable and is usually only tolerated for short periods of time. Which is good for the health of your eye as well, because over wearing this setup can lead to serious issues.

Because the mirrored gas permeable contact lens is only available in one fit, comfort and health will vary depending on the underlying eye.

Like all contact lenses, mirrored contact lenses need to be fit and supervised by a qualified eye care professional. The main aspect in fitting this lens falls upon your eye care provider to select the proper base layer soft lens and do a thorough job in explaining the care and wear of this lens system.

Again, mirrored contact lenses should only be worn under the prescribed supervision of an eye care provider and they WILL NOT be as comfortable as regular soft theatrical contact lens. You also need to take care of two different styles of lenses with two seperate care systems.

So, yes, they are available. It is a very niched product, so many eye care providers may not even know where to get them if the call arises. This is one style that really is catered towards Hollywood.

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