As Halloween approaches, it is important to remember that there are serious risks associated with improper costume contact lens wear. ALL contact lenses- even decorative lenses that do not provide vision correction- are classified as medical devices, and their safety and effectiveness is overseen by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They need to be properly fit and evaluated by an eye doctor, and thorough contact lens care instructions need be given at that time.
Here are a few tips to minimize the risk associated with decorative contact lens wear:
- Get a contact lens exam, fitting, and prescription from a licensed eye doctor. This applies even if the lenses do not correct your vision. A valid prescription specifies the brand of contact lens and the fitting parameters of that lens. Contact lenses are NOT one-size-fits-all.
- Purchase contact lenses from a reputable source that is authorized to sell contact lenses (ie: not beauty shops, flea markets, costume stores, etc). A vendor is required by law to request a current, valid prescription before selling a consumer contact lenses.
- Follow the contact lens care instructions given to you by your eye doctor.
- Remove lenses and see your optometrist immediately if you notice any eye redness, discharge, pain, or decreased vision. Infections related to contact lens wear can be potentially blinding!
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