Scary Costumes That Can Hurt Your Eyes

By: Dr. Jack Schaeffer

Halloween is a favorite holiday for many consumers as it gives them an opportunity to step out of the normal routine and become someone else for a day. Colored or "crazy contact lenses have become a popular costume accessory in recent years and can enhance the appearance of any character, but consumers need to be aware of the risks associated with wearing them.

With the increase of Hollywood using specialty contact lenses in costuming and special effects, we are seeing an increase in demand for colored and specialty lenses at Schaeffer Eye Center. What people may not realize is that you need a prescription for these lenses even if you do not have any vision needs. That is because contact lenses are a medical device that are regulated by the FDA and should be treated like any prescription contact lens.

You don't ever want to risk the only set of eyes you have. Without proper fitting and guidance from a licensed optometrist, you could do sever damage to your eyes from bacterial eye infections or scratching of the cornea.

Learn more in this video about the risks of specialty contact lenses

You can learn more in this video about contact lenses and proper fittings.

Tips for Wearing Contact Lenses from the American Optometry Association:

• See an optometrist for your regularly scheduled contact lens and eye examination and for a proper fitting and prescription.
  
• Always wash your hands before handling contact lenses.


• Carefully and regularly clean contact lenses, as directed by your optometrist. Rub the contact lenses with fingers and rinse thoroughly before soaking lenses overnight in sufficient multi-purpose solution to completely cover the lens.


• Store lenses in the proper lens storage case and replace the case every three months or sooner. Clean the case after each use, and keep it open and dry between cleanings.


• Only fresh solution should be used to clean and store contact lenses. Never re-use old solution. Contact lens solutions must be changed according to the manufacturer's recommendations, even if the lenses are not used daily.


• Always recommend contact lens replacement schedule prescribed by your optometrist.


• Remove contact lenses before swimming or entering a hot tub.