A pair of purple contact lenses might be just what you need to elevate your spooky costume this Halloween! Cosmetic or decorative contact lenses can change the color of your eye or the shape of your pupil for a different look. But before you pop on those colorful lenses, be mindful that decorative contact lenses, even non-prescription ones, can cause serious eye injuries if not properly prescribed or fitted by your eye doctor.
This time of year, decorative contact lenses are sold online, at costume stores and at flea markets. These colored contacts are advertised at low prices and without an eye doctor’s prescription. Be aware that these retailers are breaking the law as it has been illegal to sell contact lenses without a prescription since 2005. Contact lenses are considered medical devices, and the manufacturer has to receive FDA approval before selling the contacts.
Although you may pay less for these pretty, non-FDA approved decorative lenses, they may cost you more by causing a painful corneal abrasion or a vision threatening eye infection that could potentially blind you. If you are interested in colored contact lenses, visit your local eye care professional. Metro Eye Center carries a variety of colored contacts that will be a fun and safe way to spice up your Halloween costume!
This post was written in part by Janice Maliakkal, a 4th year medical student at Paul L. Foster School of Medicine in El Paso, Texas.