It’s officially spooky season and Halloween costumes have come a long way since simple (yet often frightening) plastic masks. But with all of the attention to detail with today’s costumes, it’s important we are aware of the risks associated with wearing colored contacts as part of those elaborate Halloween costumes. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), one in seven teens have used cosmetic contact lenses, according to an anonymous survey of 400 teens living in Texas. So what should parents know when it comes to protecting your eyes this season?
Sacramento-based Dr. Jennifer Wademan, a VSP network eye doctor, says that many people are unaware of the serious eye infections and injuries caused by costumes and props each year. She says that contacts from costume stores can “lead to corneal infections, corneal abrasions, corneal ulcers, and other contact-related complications.”
The AAO says that contacts should be prescription only and fitted by an eye specialist. In fact, it is illegal to sell prescription contact lenses in the United States. Contact lenses can not be one size fits all because they must be tailored to each individual.
The AAO says that colored contacts might cause less oxygen to get through to the eye because of the thickness caused by the paint and pigment. This can cause people to require eye surgery or worse, blindness.
If you do end up wearing non-prescription contact lenses, be aware of the signs of eye infection:
- redness
- swelling
- excessive discharge
- pain or discomfort
Anyone experiencing these systems should see an ophthalmologist immediately.
The right way
If the Halloween costume absolutely calls for a pair of colored contact lenses, the AAO says to:
- Get a prescription from an eye care professional
- Purchase the lenses from a reputable seller who requires your prescription to purchase them. Make sure the lenses are FDA-approved
- Be sure to follow the instructions for cleaning, wearing, and storing the lenses
- Never share with another person
Other eye risks
Halloween is a good reminder of other irritants that can cause damage to the eyes. Dr. Wademan says to also be mindful when using makeup and glitter. “Take precaution and make sure you’re avoiding the eye area. Anything you do use around your eyes should be hypoallergenic and should have no loose particles that may slide into the eye.”
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