ChromaGen™ Contact Lenses for Colour Vision Deficiency
ChromaGen™ contact lenses are soft, tinted contact lenses (also available as spectacle filters) designed to modify the spectral composition of light entering the eye. In most cases, the tint is applied to the non-dominant eye. Occasionally, different tints may be prescribed for each eye to optimise colour perception and discrimination.
What ChromaGen™ lenses may help with?
Some patients report that ChromaGen™ lenses make certain colour differences easier to detect. This can be helpful for specific everyday tasks where colour distinction is important.
What ChromaGen™ lenses cannot do?
ChromaGen™ lenses do not cure colour vision deficiency and do not restore normal colour vision.
Occupational colour vision testing
A small number of individuals with mild colour vision deficiency have reported improved performance on screening tests such as Ishihara plates during a supervised trial. However, many professional and regulatory bodies do not permit the use of tinted lenses during occupational colour vision assessments, particularly in safety-critical roles.
We strongly recommend checking with your employer or professional body before considering these lenses for occupational purposes.
Important: Any improvement in colour discrimination is task-specific and does not guarantee compliance with professional standards.
ChromaGen™ Contact Lenses for Visual Stress
Visual stress describes a pattern of visual discomfort and perceptual distortion when reading, such as text appearing to move, shimmer, blur, or form patterns. These symptoms can occur with or without associated learning difficulties, including dyslexia.
Some patients report that, when an optimal tint is identified, text appears clearer and more stable, leading to reduced discomfort. However, the evidence base is mixed. While some individuals experience noticeable benefit, others do not. UK clinical guidance requires us to explain these limitations clearly.
Not a treatment for dyslexia
Coloured filters do not treat dyslexia. They may help reduce symptoms of visual stress in some individuals, but outcomes vary.
Our Assessment Pathway at The Contact Lens Practice
- Comprehensive eye examination
We assess eye health, refractive error, and binocular vision to ensure all routine visual factors are addressed first. - Colour vision assessment
Standardised tests (such as Ishihara plates) are used where colour vision deficiency is suspected. - Structured filter trial
Where appropriate, we carry out a controlled trial to explore whether specific tints influence colour discrimination or visual comfort. - Informed consent
We discuss potential benefits, limitations, costs, and alternative options before proceeding with any prescription
Compliance & Clinical Disclaimer
At The Contact Lens Practice, we provide a thorough optometric assessment and, where appropriate, a carefully explained trial of coloured filters. We do not diagnose or treat dyslexia. The evidence for coloured filters is mixed: some patients report meaningful symptom relief, while others experience no benefit. We ensure all patients understand the limitations, costs, and alternatives so they can make a fully informed decision.
