As October nears, kids and adults alike are starting to plan their Halloween outfits. Many people purchase non-prescription colored contacts online or at a costume shop, hoping to make their look even spookier. Even scarier than any creepy getup, however, is the damage store-bought contact lenses can cause. Find out why they are so dangerous.

3 Harmful Hazards of Decorative Contacts 

1. Improper Fit

Non-prescription contacts are not “one size fits all.” When using lenses that haven’t been fitted by an eye doctor, you risk scratching the cornea. This can be uncomfortable and cause vision problems, such as blurriness. 

2. Threat of Infection

A scratched cornea also increases your risk of an eye infection. Bacterial infections can progress rapidly, leading to everything from corneal ulcers to blindness. If not treated promptly, vision loss can occur within 24 hours.

3. Lack of Information

Retailers selling decorative lenses without a prescription are breaking the law, as these products are technically considered medical devices by the Food and Drug Administration. They likely will not provide you with the information you need to care for your lenses properly. Lack of knowledge about how to put lenses in, take them out, and clean them properly further increases your risk for damage or infection.

If you must incorporate colored contact lenses into your Halloween costume, visit an eye doctor. They can write you an appropriate prescription, provide a safe product, and ensure you are using the lenses correctly. Don’t risk your eye health just for the perfect costume this Halloween.

When residents of Dayton, OH, need glasses or contact lenses, they look to Eye Care Locale. These optometrists provide top-quality yet affordable services, giving each patient the personalized attention they deserve. The office is led by Dr. Barry Gridley, who has been practicing since 1974. Find out more about their comprehensive services online. For an appointment, call (937) 222-2452.