As Halloween approaches, the thrill of transforming into a ghost, ghoul, or vampire is on everyone’s mind. While costumes and makeup can help create a convincing look, colored contact lenses are often the final touch that makes a costume truly stand out. But beware – this spooky accessory could turn into a real-life nightmare if not handled with care. Ordering colored contact lenses online poses significant risks to your eye health.

The Dark Side of Ordering Online

It’s tempting to buy colored contact lenses online, especially with the allure of low prices and wide varieties. But, as the saying goes, “You get what you pay for.” Many of these lenses are sold without a prescription and are often marketed as cosmetic products rather than medical devices. This is where the danger lies. Colored contact lenses, like all contact lenses, are medical devices regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They must be properly fitted to your eyes by an optometrist or ophthalmologist. Improperly fitted lenses can cause severe complications, including corneal ulcers, bacterial infections, and even permanent vision loss.

Real Risks for Your Eyes

Imagine waking up the day after Halloween with red, painful, and swollen eyes. This could be the start of a contact lens-related infection or corneal ulcer – serious medical conditions that can develop rapidly and may lead to blindness if not treated immediately.

Lenses that don’t fit properly can cause tiny scratches on the surface of your cornea. These scratches are an open door for bacteria, which can lead to infections like keratitis. If the infection spreads and isn’t treated promptly, it can scar the cornea, leading to vision impairment or even complete blindness. One of the scariest aspects of these infections is how quickly they can progress. Bacterial keratitis, for example, can cause significant damage within just 24 hours. The wrong lenses or poor hygiene practices can turn your costume fun into a real-life horror story.

One Size Does Not Fit All

A common misconception is that contact lenses, especially colored ones, are “one size fits all.” This is a dangerous myth. Just as you wouldn’t wear shoes that don’t fit your feet, you shouldn’t wear contact lenses that haven’t been properly fitted to your eyes. Every eye is different, and lenses need to be measured and prescribed to fit the specific curvature and size of your cornea. Wearing lenses that are too tight or too loose can cause discomfort; but more importantly, they can lead to reduced oxygen flow to your eyes. This can cause corneal hypoxia, a condition where the cornea doesn’t get enough oxygen, causing swelling, redness, and even long-term damage.

The Illusion of Safety

Just because a product is labeled as “FDA approved” doesn’t mean it’s safe for everyone. The FDA approves contact lenses based on specific conditions and usage guidelines. However, lenses purchased from unauthorized sellers may not meet these standards, or they may be counterfeit products altogether. The risks are compounded when lenses are purchased from vendors who do not require a prescription.

The Right Way to Wear Colored Lenses

If you’re determined to add colored contacts to your Halloween ensemble, do it the right way. Schedule an appointment with your optometrist for a proper eye exam and fitting. This will ensure that the lenses you’re putting in your eyes are safe and suited to your specific needs. Always wash your hands before handling your lenses and use the appropriate cleaning solutions to disinfect them. Never sleep in your contact lenses, as this increases the risk of infection. And remember to toss them when their wear period has ended.

A Final Word of Caution

Halloween is all about fun and creativity, but when it comes to your eyes, safety should always come first. The risks associated with ordering colored contact lenses online from unregulated sources are not worth the potential harm to your vision. Remember, contact lenses are medical devices, not toys or fashion accessories. Treat them with the care and respect your eyes deserve.

So, as you prepare for your Halloween transformation, keep this in mind: there’s nothing scarier than losing your eyesight to a preventable infection. Protect your vision and have a safe, happy Halloween by ensuring your contact lenses are properly prescribed and cared for.

For more information on the dangers of decorative contact lenses and how to wear them safely, contact your optometrist.