The Risks of Colored Contacts: Halloween Eye Safety

Oct 26, 2021

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Ghosts, goblins, and witches—oh my! Halloween is so delightfully frightful! But did you know that eye damage might be the scariest thing you face this October? Read on and find out why!

The Case Against Costume Contacts

We get it: a scary costume might not feel complete unless your eyes are on point. Decorative contact lenses can definitely vamp up a vampire’s appearance, but are they safe? Unfortunately, the answer is a definitive no!

Contact lenses are considered a medical device—not costume jewelry. Although it’s illegal to sell contact lenses without a prescription, plenty of businesses do. Halloween and party stores, beauty supply shops, and online retailers often sell these one-size-fits-all accessories.

The trouble is that all eyes are different and there’s no such thing as a contact lens that fits everyone. Poorly fitting contact lenses can cause the following, even after just a few hours of wear:

  • Corneal abrasions – Scratches on the outer layer of the eye.
  • Corneal ulcers – Sores that can permanently scar the cornea.
  • Eye infections – Tiny scrapes, abrasions, and sores leave openings for bacteria and viruses to enter the eye.
  • Blindness – Left untreated, scarring can lead to partial or complete blindness.

The Alternative to Nonprescription Contacts

Now that you know why cheap, non-prescription contacts belong in the trash, what can you do to safely enjoy Halloween eye enhancement? You’ll need to plan ahead and make an optometry appointment with Dr. Herron for a contact lens prescription.

With your prescription, you will be able to order cosmetic contacts that will properly fit your eyes. One brand of prescription contacts available online is Chromaview. Halloween designs include cats’ eyes, witch eyes, and UV i-Glow lenses. They’re also surprisingly affordable at under $25 a pair.

As with any type of contact lenses, follow these basic tips:

  • Wash your hands with soap and water before inserting or removing your contacts.
  • Always use fresh contact solution in your contact storage case; never reuse it.
  • Avoid showering, swimming, or sleeping while wearing your contacts.
  • Remove your contacts if you experience pain, blurry vision, redness, or discharge.

We wish you a safe and happy Halloween! But if you wake up November 1st with post-celebration eye discomfort, we’re here for you. Simply call or text us at (423) 855-8522. And if it’s been a while since your last comprehensive eye exam, there’s no time like the present to take advantage of this year’s met deductibles and remaining medical spending account funds!