Digital Tools for Patient Engagement:
A Q&A with Dr. Angelica Cifuentes on Alcon’s COLORS Virtual Try-On Tool
5 minute read
The adoption of digital tools in eye care is transforming how patients explore and select contact lenses. Alcon’s updated COLORS Virtual Try-On Tool is at the forefront of this shift, offering a more realistic, interactive, and seamless experience for those considering color contact lenses. The enhanced shade-matching technology provides a more accurate and lifelike preview, helping patients feel more confident in their choice before stepping into the office.
To gain insight into how this tool is making a difference, we spoke with Dr. Angelica Cifuentes, an optometrist practicing in Miami, Florida, widely known as “@tinyoptometrist” in the industry, to learn more about how Alcon’s enhanced Virtual Try-On Tool is transforming the patient experience and helping eye care professionals guide patients toward confident informed choices.
What excites you most about the enhanced Alcon COLORS Virtual Try-On Tool?
Dr. Cifuentes: “This tool takes the guesswork out of choosing a color contact lens. While the Virtual Try-On Tool has been available for some time, this enhanced version offers a more realistic shade-matching experience, with improved precision and a side-by-side comparison feature to help patients feel even more confident in their selection before trying a lens in person. Since this tool now offers a more realistic shade-matching preview, patients can feel confident in their color selection and no longer have to rely solely on trial lenses to see how a shade would look on their eyes. I especially like the side-by-side before-and-after feature. It’s a game-changer because it lets them instantly compare and feel confident in their choice.”
How do you see this tool helping both patients and eye care professionals?
Dr. Cifuentes: “For patients, this tool makes color selection so much easier. It’s fun, it’s interactive, and it really helps them feel more confident walking into their appointment knowing exactly what they want. There’s even a direct link to request a free trial, so they’re coming in prepared, which makes consultations smoother.
For eye care professionals, this is a great resource because it serves as a first step in the selection process before trial lenses are dispensed. Instead of handing out multiple trial lenses—which can be costly and overwhelming for patients—this tool helps narrow down choices ahead of time. That means more efficient appointments and a better experience overall.”
“Choosing a color contact lens is a very personal experience. This tool gives my patients the ability to explore different looks in a fun and realistic way before they even step into the office. It makes the process engaging, easy, and helps them feel more confident in their selection.”
– Dr. Angelica Cifuentes, OD
How does this reflect the broader trend of digital transformation in eye care?
Dr. Cifuentes: “Patients expect digital solutions that enhance their experience, and this tool meets that expectation. Whether it’s using online digital health tools for appointment booking, digital reminders, contact lens ordering, or accessing resources that help them make informed choices, technology is making the patient journey more seamless.
What’s great about this tool is that it bridges online exploration with in-person care. Patients can experiment with different shades in their own space, and when they come in for their appointment, they already have a strong idea of what they like. It’s a smart way to blend technology with patient engagement.”
Is there anything else you want doctors to know about utilizing this tool in their practice?
Dr. Cifuentes: “Absolutely. Encourage your staff to educate patients about the Virtual Try-On Tool. There’s even an infographic available that provides a step-by-step guide on how to use it. This resource is invaluable for both practitioners and patients, as it clearly outlines the process, making it easier to integrate into your practice and encourage patients to explore their options before their visit. Utilizing this infographic can enhance patient engagement and streamline the lens selection process.”
The Future of Eye Care is Digital
As patient expectations evolve, tools like Alcon’s COLORS Virtual Try-On help eye care professionals integrate technology-driven solutions that enhance both engagement and efficiency. Whether it’s limiting unnecessary trial lenses, streamlining consultations, or simply making the color selection process more enjoyable, this tool is a reflection of how digital advancements are shaping the future of optometry.
Eye Care Professionals looking to explore the Virtual Try-On Tool can find more details at https://www.myalcon.com/contact-lenses/colors/try-on/
Dr. Angelica Cifuentes, known as “@tinyoptometrist,” is a board-certified optometric physician practicing in Miami, Florida. She completed her undergraduate studies with honors at Florida International University and earned her Doctor of Optometry degree from Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry in 2022. Dr. Cifuentes is the CEO and co-founder of Bye Dry Eyes, an e-commerce platform offering a range of dry eye products for patients. She actively engages with her audience through her platform @tinyoptometrist across Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Her commitment to education and advocacy extends to her role as a mentor for Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry Florida Optometric Student Association. Dr. Cifuentes is also an active member of various optometric associations, including the American Optometric Association, Florida Optometric Association, and serves as trustee board member for the Miami Dade Optometric Association. Additionally, Dr. Cifuentes is a recipient of the Florida Optometric Association’s 2025 Young Optometrist of the Year Award. In 2024, she was appointed to the Latinos in Optometry Advisory Board, reflecting her dedication to increasing Latino representation in the eye care profession.
Colors Contact Lenses
Delivers Color Enhancement Plus Eye Definition,* Making Eyes Appear Bigger and Brighter
AIR OPTIX® COLORS
Designed to Naturally Enhance Beautiful Eyes and Provide Consistent Comfort1-3 and Breathability**.
*Mystic Green has a less defined outer ring as compared to other colors. Mystic Green is also available as Green within the Freshlook® One-Day contact lenses portfolio.
**Dk/t = 138 @ -3.00D. Other factors may impact eye health.
1.Eiden SB, Davis, R, Bergenske P. Prospective study of lotrafilcon B lenses comparing.
2. Lemp J, Kern J. On-eye performance of lotrafilcon B lenses packaged with a substantive wetting agent. Presented at the American Optometric Association Annual Meeting, June 21-25, 2017. Washington, D.C.
3. Lemp J, Kern J. A comparison of real time and recall comfort assessments. Optom Vis Sci. 2016;93:E-abstract 165256.
Important information for DAILIES® COLORS (nelfilcon A) Contact Lenses: Contact lenses, even if worn for cosmetic reasons, are medical devices that must only be worn under the prescription, direction and supervision of an eye care professional. Serious eye health problems may occur as a result of sharing contact lenses.
Important information for AIR OPTIX® COLORS (lotrafilcon B) contact lenses: For daily wear only for near/far-sightedness. Contact lenses, even if worn for cosmetic reasons, are prescription medical devices that must only be worn under the prescription, direction and supervision of an eye care professional. Serious eye health problems may occur as a result of sharing contact lenses. Although rare, serious eye problems can develop while wearing contact lenses. Side effects like discomfort, mild burning or stinging may occur. To help avoid these problems, patients must follow the wear and replacement schedule and the lens care instructions provided by their eye doctor.
See product instructions for complete wear, care and safety information.
