These days, you can purchase contact lenses just about anywhere, including in party stores around the holidays. Since contact lenses can transform the color, iris shape, or look of your eye, they are popular around holidays like Halloween. However, just because you can find contacts in stores doesn’t mean they are safe. Below, learn more about why you might be tempted to buy contacts over-the-counter, and what can happen if you do. 

Why Would You Want Store-Bought Contacts? 

Some people are drawn to store-bought contact lenses because they are available for a low, set price. However, many optometry offices sell decorative contacts in-store that are made by safe, reliable manufacturers. Others are interested in store-bought contacts because they mesh well with a person’s overall look or costume idea. For instance, “big circle” contact lenses are popular in cosplay, since they make the eye look more doll-like. 

How Can Store-Bought Contacts Damage Eyes? 

Unfortunately, contacts aren’t a one-size-fits-all kind of accessory, and you could damage your eyes by wearing lenses that aren’t custom fit to your eye. Decorative contacts that don’t fit the shape of your eye can scratch your cornea, resulting in redness, eye ulcers, blurry vision, or even potential eyesight loss. Improperly prepared and stored contact lenses can also carry bacteria or viruses, which could cause potentially serious eye infections like conjunctivitis or keratitis. 

To prevent these kinds of problems, eye doctors recommend getting an eye exam. During eye exams, eye doctors can check the eye for eye infections and injuries, and recommend lenses that will fit your eye comfortably—and safely. 

If you are thinking about bolstering your Halloween look with some decorative contacts, turn to Dr. Michael R. Schmit for help. With access to an incredible array of professionally made, safe contact lenses of different shapes, sizes, colors, and themes, he can help you to complete your look without risking your eye health. To find out more about how he can help, visit his website, or give his Cincinnati, OH, office a call at (513) 741-8811.