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Posted by: South Georgia / North Florida Eye Partners in Eye Health

Are you ready for a fun Halloween celebration this year? As Halloween approaches, we urge costume shoppers to avoid non-prescription lenses after a study found chlorine, metal, and other harmful chemicals in product testing. Wearing costume contact lenses on Halloween can be a real scream. However, the risks associated with non-prescription contact lenses can be all too real, as chemical exposure or potentially blinding infections can occur. The consequences of such infections can be severe, leading to vision loss or even blindness. To help prevent these serious outcomes, we want to warn costume shoppers about the risks associated with over-the-counter decorative lenses. Studies found that several varieties tested positive for chlorine and other harmful chemicals.

A research article published in the Eye & Contact Lens – Science and Clinical Practice journal found chlorine in three types of non-prescription costume contact lenses. Iron was detected on four pairs of lenses. The chemicals may originate from colorants used to tint and create playful patterns on the lenses. One pair absorbed chlorine after a routine rinse, raising concerns among researchers about potential eye toxicity. The study also noted that colorants printed or pressed onto some decorative lenses create uneven textures. These rough surfaces could scratch the eyes, potentially allowing bacteria to cause infection and even blindness.

Despite that sales restriction, many decorative lenses of unknown origin can be purchased online. Around Halloween, they often pop up for sale at beauty stores or even gas stations. The issue is that contact lenses not approved by the FDA may contain materials that can damage the eyes, leading to corneal damage or keratitis. Wearing decorative lenses without a prescription can lead to scarring, which may impair vision or cause blindness. Eye doctors strongly advise against this practice.

For a safe and fun Halloween experience or anytime you wear decorative contact lenses, the American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends following these guidelines. By doing so, you can help protect your eye health and safety.

• Only purchase decorative contact lenses from reputable retailers who require a prescription and sell FDA-approved products.
• If you don’t have a contact lens prescription, get a valid one and schedule an eye exam with your eye doctor..
• Even those with perfect vision need to be examined and fitted for the correct size of contacts by an eye health professional. Ill-fitting lenses can scratch the eye’s surface, creating an opening for infection.
• Redness, swelling, excessive discharge, pain, or discomfort might indicate an eye infection. If you experience these symptoms, consult an eye doctor immediately.

As you get ready for Halloween, we want to remind you to prioritize your eye health and safety. We hope you have a safe and fun Halloween, and we encourage you to take the necessary steps to protect your eyes.

References: American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Optometric Association, and Eye & Contact Lens – Science and Clinical Practice Journal (2020 study published). This blog provides information and discussion about eye health and related subjects. The content provided within this blog and any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered medical advice. If the reader or any person has a medical concern, they should consult a physician who is appropriately licensed.