Halloween is a time when we transform ourselves into ghoulish and fun alter-egos, using costumes, makeup, and Halloween contact lenses. However, before you head out into the night, it’s important to make sure you are using contact lenses that are safe for cosmetic use. Coloured contact lenses for Halloween are one of the number one causes of eye injuries over the holidays. The FDA and many other medical and ophthalmological organizations have publicly denounced the use of non-prescription costume contact lenses due to the significantly increased risk for eye injury.
So how do you know which contact lenses are safe for use at Halloween? Here are some helpful suggestions on ensuring your eyes are safe.
What are costume contact lenses?
You may have seen decorative contact lenses at malls or even local discount stores. These contact lenses are usually made from plastic and are designed to change the look of your eye colour or shape.
Are costume contact lenses safe?
The only safe coloured or costume contact lenses are ones prescribed by your optometrist. Contact lenses found in non-medical settings pose a severe risk for eye injury or even blindness. Some of the risks associated with non-prescription decorative contact lenses are:
● eye infections, swelling, and inflammation
● ulcers on your corneas or corneal abrasions
● allergic reactions
Though there are risks associated with wearing any contact lens, the risks are even higher with non-medical grade contact lenses because the materials are not regulated or approved. Costume contact lenses can contain dangerous dyes or plastic chemicals that can cause severe allergic reactions. Some may also cut or scratch your eyes because they are not made from medical-grade materials.
What happens if I wear unauthorized contact lenses?
Our optometrists in Belleville are dedicated to providing the highest and safest level of care for our patients. This includes only prescribing contact lenses that are approved by our regulating bodies.
If you want to add extra scare to your costume this year, your optometrist can measure your eyes and prescribe you with a pair of approved contact lenses that fit safely. Remember, not everyone can wear contact lenses, so it is important to only wear them if your optometrist approves.
Once you have received your prescription and still want to wear Halloween contact lenses, it is important to consult your optometrist for advice first so they can ensure you are only purchasing them from authorized and approved sellers.
How can I ensure my coloured contact lenses are safe?
We are here to help our patients have the very best Halloween, by offering contact lenses services designed to ensure proper fit and maximum safety. We will review your prescription to check to see if it has changed recently. If so, we can provide you with an updated prescription for your new contacts so you can feel confident you are experiencing the best and safest vision. We will review the contact lens options available to you so you can find a pair that fits comfortably.
Contact lens hygiene
Before wearing contacts there are a few simple tips you can follow to reduce the chances of eye injury or infection:
● Wash your hands before inserting or removing contact lenses
● Never wear contact lenses purchased from an unauthorized vendor
● Only wear the contact lenses for as long as their designated lifetime. For example, throw dailies out after one use
● Use the contact solution recommended by your optometrist and clean your contacts with them every day
● Never reuse or share your contact lenses with anyone else
Following these helpful tips will ensure you have a safe and fun Halloween.
Contact us
Make sure you contact us in time to avoid a real scare this Halloween! We can help you find the right pair of contact lenses to enhance the look of your costume. Book your appointment online or drop into one of our Laurier Optical locations in Kanata, Brockville, Belleville, Rideau, Cornwall, and many more.
Comments