Novelty contact lenses can be a popular addition to Halloween costumes, but buying them from retailers without a valid prescription can put your eyes at risk of serious infection, eye damage and potential sight loss.
The College of Optometrists advises anyone considering wearing cosmetic novelty contact lenses this Halloween to visit their local optical practice for advice and to arrange a contact lens fitting with an optometrist or contact lens optician.
Dr Paramdeep Bilkhu MCOptom, clinical adviser at The College of Optometrists, says: “In the UK it is illegal to sell zero-powered (also known as plano lenses) coloured contact lenses without the supervision of a registered optometrist, dispensing optician or doctor. This is to ensure that all contact lenses, whether they’re prescription or for cosmetic purposes, are dispensed and fitted to the patient’s eyes safely by a registered eye health professional. They can advise users about which types of lenses are suitable and explain how to insert, remove and look after them safely to prevent infections or eye damage.
“Coloured contact lenses sold or supplied by disreputable vendors who don’t require evidence of a valid prescription before placing the customer’s order may be made of poor quality or unsuitable materials and are not made to measure. This can also result in serious complications, such as infection, damage to the eye and potential sight loss.
“If you are looking to purchase cosmetic coloured contact lenses, first visit your local optical practice to have a contact lens fitting and to obtain a contact lens prescription. We advise people to purchase their contact lenses from the same practice where the lenses were fitted, but if you choose to purchase coloured contact lenses online it is vital to make sure the retailer is a reputable source which complies with contact lens supply law so that your lenses match those on your prescription.
“Users should expect to be asked for verification of their prescription before their order can be processed, such as uploading a copy of their prescription. Wherever they are purchased, it is important to have regular check-ups to ensure the lenses are still suitable and eyes remain healthy.”
We want everyone to enjoy their Halloween parties safely, and not put the health of their eyes at risk for the sake of looking scary. Anyone thinking of wearing novelty lenses should visit their local optometrist for advice.
