BCLA alerts consumers to novelty contact lens risk

A consumer warning was issued by the British Contact Lens Association ahead of Halloween this week.

The organisation noted that while wearing cat or vampire eyes might seem like harmless fun, the lenses could pose serious risks if not used properly.

BCLA president Susan Bowers said: ‘Consumers should understand that decorative and novelty contact lenses, like contact lenses intended for the correction of vision, present serious risks to eye health if they are distributed without proper fitting by a qualified eye care professional, careful instruction and ongoing clinical care.’

Cosmetic or fun lenses should only be sold by or under the supervision of an optometrist, dispensing optician or medical practitioner, a statement added. Supervision required the registered person to be present on the premises, aware of the procedure and in a position to intervene if necessary.