Halloween contact lenses can create a very cool and fun special effect for any costume. There are so many different kinds: cat eyes, demon eyes, zombie eye, crazy colors! But these decorative contact lenses can pose some serious eye health risks if they aren’t purchased with a valid prescription and from a reliable source licensed to dispense contact lenses. So don’t risk your vision!
ALL contact lenses, including decorative lenses with no vision-correcting power, are considered medical devices by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and require a prescription from a licensed eye doctor.
Wearing lenses that aren’t properly fit and evaluated by a doctor can result in:
- allergic reactions
- scratches to the front of the eye
- infections
- ulcers
- scarring
- permanent vision loss
When considering Halloween contact lenses, keep in mind:
– Some lenses are sold illegally: online, flea markets, beauty salons, Halloween stores, convenience stores.
– Because these lenses are sold illegally, some may be made of non-FDA-approved materials or stored in unsterile conditions.
– If you experience any burning, itching, redness, tearing, swelling, discomfort, pain, discharge or blurry vision, IMMEDIATELY remove the lenses and contact an eye doctor ASAP.
FDA Decorative Contact Lens Safety Campaign
As we get ready for Halloween festivities in Fanwood and Scotch Plains, we want everybody to stay safe and we can’t wait to see your costumes! If you’re looking to purchase decorative lenses, please remember to protect your eyes, get an exam and buy contact lenses the legal way.
Happy Halloween!
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