Yes, they most definitely are just as safe as prescription contacts and perhaps safer than the naked eye if you consider the fact that most contact lenses, prescription or not come with UV protection blocking rays. Of course even with prescription contact lenses there is always the minor chance of certain infections. Anyone who chooses to wear contact lenses must pay close attention to hygiene when it comes to their contact. However, the contact lenses of today are much easier to care for and to wear. Actually you can wear your contacts for about a week without even taking them out. You can get the Non prescription colored contacts without a prescription, but you do need to know what size so you still need to see an eye doctor before you buy colored contacts.