Over the past few years, viral videos have captured the emotional reactions of individuals with color blindness who use specialized glasses to see color for the first time. These moments of joy and amazement highlight just how transformative these technologies can be. For those with color vision deficiency (CVD), these tools provide a glimpse into a world of vibrant colors, something that many people take for granted.
What Is Color Blindness and How Does It Affect Vision?
Color blindness, or color vision deficiency, affects approximately one in 12 men and one in 200 women worldwide. Contrary to popular belief, those with color blindness don’t see only in shades of grey. Instead, they often struggle to distinguish between certain colors, particularly red and green, or blue and yellow. For example, colors like orange, yellow, and brown may appear similar, especially in dim light. Individuals with CVD can typically perceive only 5-10% of the color spectrum visible to those with normal vision.
There are two main types of color blindness:
- Red-green color blindness (the most common, typically inherited via the X chromosome)
- Blue-yellow color blindness, which is rarer and often linked to nerve damage
CVD can also develop as a result of illness, injury, or even certain medications. Despite these challenges, many people with color blindness live without realizing they have the condition, assuming that their perception of colors is the same as everyone else’s.
Color Blind Glasses: Do They Work?
Are there glasses for color blindness? Yes! Several brands now offer color blind lenses that can help people with red-green color blindness perceive colors more accurately. Two of the most popular options are EnChroma glasses and Oxy-Iso Color Correction Glasses by o2Amp. These glasses filter light to adjust the wavelengths that enter the eyes, improving color differentiation. While these glasses work for about 80% of individuals with red-green color blindness, results may vary. The technology isn’t a cure, but it does offer meaningful enhancement for many wearers.
EnChroma, for example, offers both indoor and outdoor versions of its lenses—indoor lenses are designed for use with screens, while the outdoor version functions as sunglasses. Though these glasses can significantly improve the color experience for many, they are not a universal solution.
Color Blind Contact Lenses: The Next Step in Vision Enhancement
Color blind contact lenses are another innovative solution for individuals with color deficiency. Enchroma contacts are one example of this technology, allowing wearers to experience enhanced color discrimination. Like their eyeglass counterparts, these contacts work by altering the wavelength of light entering the eye. Many individuals find color blind contact lenses to be a comfortable, discreet alternative to glasses, offering a seamless experience for daily wear.
These contacts are available in both prescription and non-prescription forms, providing a more personalized option for those who prefer contact lenses over eyeglasses. However, it’s important to note that, like with glasses for color deficiency, the effectiveness can vary based on the individual.
Apps and Tools for Color Vision Deficiency
Beyond eyewear, there are many digital tools that assist with color vision deficiency. For instance, apps like Colorblind Avenger and Huevue help people identify, match, and coordinate colors using their smartphone or tablet. Colorblind Avenger allows users to capture or select an image and then touch areas of the image to display the corresponding color. These apps are a simple and accessible way to aid daily life, especially when dealing with colors in non-visual tasks.
Additionally, many video games and software design tools now feature colorblind modes to make them more inclusive for individuals with CVD. These digital aids can’t restore color vision permanently, but they enhance the overall experience and allow individuals with CVD to live a more vibrant life.
Living with Color Vision Deficiency
How to cure dry eyes permanently and restore color vision for those with color blindness remains an open question. While there are innovative tools like Enchroma contacts and color blind lenses, the condition itself is lifelong. However, thanks to advancements in eyewear, contact lenses, and mobile apps, people with color vision deficiencies can now navigate their world with more ease and confidence.
If you or someone you know has color blind contacts or other solutions in mind, be sure to speak with an eye doctor who specializes in color blindness. They can guide you toward the most appropriate technology and provide insights into how to manage color vision deficiency in your daily life.
See color in a whole new way! Reach out to Eyes on Group for expert advice on color blind lenses and contact lenses that enhance your vision.