Keep Your Eyes Halloween Safe: Consult With your Eye Doctor Before Purchasing Special Effect Lenses

With the fall comes Halloween and with that, dressing up. It's important to be aware of certain hazards to your eyes and vision that sometimes accompany with the fun and games.

A popular costume addition as of late has been special effect contact lenses and the trend is causing serious concern amongst eye care professionals. Contact lenses are a governmentally regulated medical device. It is illegal to sell contact lenses without a license which applies to costume and party stores, however it is apparent that the laws are often ignored. Unlicensed production may use inferior plastics or even dangerous coloring elements to dye the lenses. Additionally, using lenses without adequate fitting and treatment, can cause critical eye damage or even vision loss.

If you do wish to wear special-effect lenses, it is necessary to schedule an appointment with a licensed eye care professional. After a comprehensive eye exam, the practitioner will determine the correct size, curvature and if needed prescription required for the lens. The practitioner will also give necessary guidance on proper hygiene of contact lenses.

While many incorrectly view non-prescription contacts as just another cosmetic accessory, improper use of contacts can result in serious harm to your eyes and vision. No item should ever be placed in the eye without proper professional guidance.

Only purchase contacts from an authorized distributor that you can be sure sells products approved by the FDA. Even when purchasing lenses without corrective power, they must adhere to health regulations and need a prescription. Steer clear of websites, open markets or party supply stores that may sell unregulated products colored with unapproved materials. To determine if the store has a license to sell contacts find out the state license number and call the state Department of Professional Regulations (DPR) to check.

If your disguise just won't be complete without decorative contact lenses, call your trusted eye care professional before making any purchase. Don't let Halloween be a "frightful" night for your eyes. Be knowledgable about the dangers unregulated use of lenses can be to your eyes.

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