Costume contact lenses can make your Halloween getup look more convincing. However, it’s important that you buy with caution and wear them as prescribed to avoid eye infection.
Here are quick facts about decorative contacts.
They Aren’t Over-the-Counter Products
Only purchase colored contacts approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It is illegal to sell these products over-the-counter or advertise them as cosmetics. These sellers may only give you a few (or no) procedures on how to clean and care for your contacts. Keep in mind that bacterial infection escalates quickly, resulting in corneal ulcers in as little as 24 hours when not detected.
Do not buy lenses from street vendors, salons, boutiques, flea markets, novelty stores, video stores and online shops that don’t require a prescription.
They Aren’t Free-Size
You need to visit an eye doctor for an eye exam to determine your eye’s measurement and how they react to contact lens wear. Wearing poorly fit lenses can cause scratches on the cornea, conjunctivitis, corneal infection, impaired vision and even blindness.
Proper Decorative Contact Lens Wear
Even when your vision is clear, you should visit an eye specialist to get costume contacts. Obtain a valid prescription, which includes the brand name, lens measurements and expiration date.
Only purchase contact lenses from stores that require you to present a valid prescription. Comply with all instructions for cleaning, disinfecting and wearing the lenses. Visit your eye doctor for follow-up exams.
Immediately seek help from your eye doctor if you experience symptoms of eye infection, such as redness, persistent eye pain and low vision.
For your eye care needs, turn to Eye and Vision Care. Our eye doctors only use advanced optical products and diagnostic technology. We offer comprehensive eye exams, orthokeratology, laser vision correction and more. Call us at (703) 910-5952 or fill out our online form to schedule an appointment. We assist patients in South Riding, VA.