There are risks associated with these lenses, however. Many people think that decorative lenses don’t require the same care level as a standard contact lens since they are available over-the-counter or online, but that simply isn’t true. It is actually illegal to sell any kind of contact lenses without a prescription in the United States. Lenses found in beauty salons or online and in novelty shops are often not approved by the FDA and are being sold illegally.
Contact lenses are medical devices that require proper fitting and prescription by an eye-care professional. If they are not fitted correctly, the lenses can stick to your eyes like tiny suction cups, causing you extreme pain and possible damage to your eyes.
You will need to get an eye exam and a prescription from your eye care professional before you buy any kind of contact lens, whether it be for regular use or as a novelty. If a retailer doesn’t ask for your prescription before purchase, avoid doing business with them.
To wear costume contact lenses for Halloween or throughout the year, follow these tips to do so safely:
- Exam. Get an eye exam from your licensed eye care professional. He or she will measure each eye and instruct you about proper care of your contact lenses.
- Prescription. This will include the brand name, measurements for your lenses, and expiration date.
- Purchase. Only purchase your novelty contact lenses from a retailer who asks for your prescription.
- Directions. Follow the directions you are given for the proper care of your contacts. These should include instructions for cleaning, disinfecting, and wear.
- Sharing. Never share contact lenses with anyone else.
- Follow-up. Schedule follow-up exams as you are directed by your eye-care professional.
- Issues. If you experience redness, excessive discharge, pain, swelling, or any other discomfort, remove the lenses immediately and seek medical attention from an ophthalmologist. Eye infections can become very serious very quickly, and in some cases, the damage is simply not reversible.
We care about fun here at Classic Vision Care, and we want your Halloween to be the best, ever! If you are considering wearing colored novelty contact lenses this year, we can help.
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