Spooky eyes, real scares: why Halloween contact lenses aren’t worth the risk

It’s spooky season, and for those of us who love dressing up for the occasion, it’s often the little additions that can make a good outfit outstanding. In many horror films, the eyes are used to depict innate evilness or to wow the audience with an unnatural boldness, so the use of novelty Halloween contact lenses to add the finishing touch to an outfit is an understandable one. Still, it’s important to be aware of the risks of purchasing from retailers who are not optometrists or optical experts.

Cosmetic contact lens risks 

In the UK, contact lenses are classified as medical devices and can only be dispensed by a qualified optometrist. Even non-prescription contact lenses fall under the MHRA’s (Medicines & Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency) authority, and unregulated lenses found online and in some shops could be potentially harmful to your eyes.

Cosmetic contact lens risks range from infections and conjunctivitis to more serious corneal abrasions and even vision loss in extreme cases. Your eyes are unique, which is why contact lenses are usually recommended and initially fitted by an optometrist to meet your specific needs. Unregulated lenses don’t offer such considerations, and coupled with minimal guidance, problems may arise.

Eyes need to breathe

Our eyes need to ‘breathe’ to function correctly. Covering them with ill-fitting, thick, unbreathable materials and blocking oxygen from the eyes, is the source of many unintended horror stories that are all too frequent this time of year.

Our safe coloured contact lenses

Here at The Optical Store, we take eye health seriously. We’re here to offer advice regarding contact lens safety and sell prescription and non-prescription contact lenses from well-renowned certified suppliers, from Acuvue to Coopervision. These are made from advanced, breathable materials and will not compromise your eye health or your Halloween outfit!

While Halloween contact lenses are a no-go, we do offer fantastic coloured contact lenses from trusted brand Alcon, designed to enhance your natural eye colour. Choose from Freshlook Colorblends or Air Optix Colors, and whether you go for Amethyst, True Sapphire, Gemstone Green or the numerous alternatives, your eyes will look truly striking this Fright Night.

Important tips to remember

For all new and existing contact lens wearers, we’d like to offer some reminders to keep you looking sharp and your eyes safe this Halloween:

1. Pain, blurry vision, red eyes, difficulty with removing lenses, and lenses not staying on your eye are all cause for concern. Discontinue use and seek further guidance from an optometrist if you experience any of these symptoms.

2. If contact lenses are reusable, they should be kept clean and stored in a clean case using the recommended solution. Using tap water is a no-no and avoid showering and swimming while wearing them, too, to prevent unwanted microorganisms from clinging to your lenses and infecting your eyes.

3. Never wear daily disposable contact lenses for more than a day – they are designed to be thrown away at the end of each day, and a fresh pair used the next.

4. Contact lenses are not typically designed to be worn for extended periods, so it’s critical to remove them before sleeping otherwise they can become excessively dry and cause irritation or even infection.

5. Contact lenses should never be shared. It should go without saying, but this is an easy way to spread infection, especially if handling them with unwashed hands!

Need more advice?

We advocate for healthy eyes, whatever the season. If you’re interested in coloured contact lenses or just want to order regular ones and have any questions, get in touch with our optical experts for further information. Our friendly team is on hand to offer professional guidance about eye health and your contact lens options!