Optometrist issues urgent Halloween costume warning
With Halloween around the corner, for many, coloured contact lenses and dramatic eye makeup are a must-have addition to their costume, but they could be putting your eyes at risk.
Jo Lindley, Optometrist at Leightons Opticians, is urging the public to be aware of the potential dangers of wearing non-prescription coloured contact lenses. Non-prescription lenses, often purchased from novelty stores or online, are a rising trend, particularly around fancy dress periods like Halloween. However, they can cause severe eye infections, corneal damage, or even permanent vision loss if not fitted and prescribed by a registered optometrist or contact lens optician.
“Coloured contact lenses can be safe if prescribed and fitted by an optometrist or contact lens optician, who provides the necessary aftercare and advice,” says Jo. “The risk comes when people purchase lenses from unregulated sources or don’t follow proper care guidelines.“
To help ensure a fun and safe Halloween, Jo shares the following tips:
1. Only wear lenses prescribed and supplied by a registered professional – Improperly fitted lenses can lead to infections, corneal abrasions, and other complications, such as corneal ulcers that may permanently affect eyesight.
2. Follow instructions for lens care – Always follow the care and wear guidance provided by your optician. This includes how to properly clean, store, and wear your lenses and includes safe contact lens handling, such as washing hands before applying and removing lenses. Only use specific contact lens care products and never use tap water with contact lenses, which includes no showering or swimming in lenses due to the risk of infection.
3. Be careful with eye-area makeup – Use hypoallergenic, eye-safe makeup for your Halloween costume. When applying face paint or prosthetics near the eyes, avoid using glitter or glue products in the delicate eye area.
4. Remove makeup with care – At the end of the night, remove your makeup gently. Rubbing too hard or using harsh products can cause irritation. Opt for oil-based makeup removers that dissolve eye-area makeup without the need for excessive scrubbing.
5. Remove contact lenses before sleep – After a long night of partying, make sure to remove your contact lenses before bed to avoid hypoxia. This is a lack of oxygen to the cornea, increasing the risk of infections, corneal ulcers, and even permanent vision loss.
6. Don’t ignore discomfort – If you experience any redness, irritation, excessive watering, discharge, sensitivity towards bright light or blurred vision, stop wearing your lenses and makeup immediately and contact Leightons Opticians or a healthcare professional for an eye health assessment.
7. Do not share lenses – NEVER share contact lenses. This could lead to serious infection, and vision is irreplaceable, so prioritise eye health over a moment of fun.
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