Buzz
While cat-shaped pupils or neon-colored contacts can be exciting, have you considered the potential dangers of inserting plastic lenses from a costume shop into your eyes? Experts, such as those from the American Academy of Ophthalmology, caution against it.
The risks of wearing costume contact lenses
Inexpensive Halloween contacts are typically one-size-fits-all, but the AAO emphasizes that contacts are never a universal fit. Contacts that are too large or small for your eyes can cause serious problems like corneal abrasions, ulcers, and infections such as keratitis. In severe instances, these infections could lead to blindness. A 2017 FDA report found that 27% of costume contacts were contaminated with bacteria.
If you wear contacts (whether for Halloween or daily use), the AAO advises keeping an eye out for signs such as redness, swelling, pain, or unusual discharge. Seek medical attention as soon as you suspect an infection. Your eyes are particularly vulnerable to infections, so it’s important to stay vigilant.
How to find reliable costume contact lenses
By law, contact lenses require a prescription. If you can buy colored contacts without showing a doctor’s prescription, they are not legitimate. The real ones, however, tend to be pricey. Prices range from $40 to $110 per pair on sites like lens.com, Discount Contacts, and Wicked Eyez.
These websites allow you to order contacts online, but you’ll need to provide your prescription details before checking out. Thankfully, the Federal Trade Commission has ruled that providers must give you a copy of your prescription after a fitting, and they cannot charge you extra for it.
Once you have your lenses, it’s crucial to know how to care for them. If you wear contacts regularly, you likely already have a routine. But if you're just picking up a pair for a costume, here are the essential steps:
Always wash your hands before touching your lenses.
Store the lenses in a contact lens solution and ensure both the lenses and their case are kept clean.
Do not wear them while sleeping or swimming.
And for heaven's sake, never share them with others!
After all, the red-eye effect isn’t as stylish once the zombie costume comes off.
