Spooky: Halloween Brings Dangerous Trend in Contact Lenses

Many teens may want to use decorative contact lenses with their halloween costumes this year, but dotors are concerned the non-prescription lenses could injure or infect the wearer's eyes.

The American Academy of Ophthalmology warns that topping off a costume with glow-in-the-dark lizard lenses or circle lenses which makes eyes look huge, is a dangerous choice.

Circle lenses, which are becoming increasingly popular with teenage girls, are not FDA-approved. Websites often advertise decorative contacts as if they were cosmetics, fashion accessories or toys. With whimsical, playful packaging and names like Dolly Eyes, their targets are often teens and young adults. 

All contact lenses are medical devices that require a prescription and proper fitting by an eye care professional. Even if someone has perfect vision, they need to get an eye exam and a prescription from an eye care professional in order to wear any kind of contacts, including cosmetic lenses.

"Most people believe that decorative lenses don’t require the same level of care or consideration as corrective contact lenses because they can be purchased at stores or on the Internet. This is far from the truth,” said Thomas Steinemann, MD, of Case Western Reserve University.

“In fact, permanent eye damage can occur from using over-the-counter lenses," Steinemann said. "We want to discourage all consumers, especially teens, from buying contact lenses in beauty salons, novelty shops or in Halloween stores.”

Read a patient story and view the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s 30- and 90-second public service announcements.

For more information on the safe wearing of decorative lenses as well as regular contacts, visit www.geteyesmart.org