Halloween is almost here, and we know it’s important to some that their ensemble has spooky details, from their eyes to their toes. Taking your costume to the next level can include decorative contact lenses, and we want to remind everyone there are scary risks that come from wearing these lenses without a prescription: Bacterial infections, allergic reactions, even the potential for irreversible sight loss.
Some quick safety tips:
- To buy these kinds of contacts, you need a prescription from an eye doctor — even if they're just for looks and aren't correcting your vision
- Never, ever, share your contact lenses with anyone. This can lead to serious eye problems
- Buy your special-effect contact lenses from an authorized source. Know that retailers who sell Halloween contacts but don't require an Rx are selling them illegally
Do you need a prescription?
Yes — even novelty contact lenses are considered medical devices and can’t be purchased legally in the United States without a prescription. Come see us for a contact lens exam to have them properly fitted and prescribed, even if you don't need vision correction. All contact lenses, even cosmetic ones, must be fitted to the person wearing them. A poor lens fit can lead to infection, corneal ulcer, decreased vision, and even blindness.
Novelty contact can also lead to scary eye problems. Testing of confiscated illegal lenses revealed many had high levels of bacteria that could cause significant eye infections. Also, the coloring of some decorative contact lenses were made of lead-based materials that could leach directly into the eye.
Where can you get your safe lenses?
To make sure you’ll have a safe wearing experience, buy your special-effect contact lenses from an authorized source. Never buy them at any store that doesn't ask you for a valid contact lens prescription, like a flea market, street vendor, beauty salon, or Halloween store.
Watch this video from the FDA on improper use of decorative contact lenses:
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The content on this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
At EYEcenter Optometric, we put your family's needs first. Talk to us about how we can help you maintain healthy vision. Call us today: 916-727-6518 or book an appointment online to see one of our Citrus Heights eye doctors.
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