The College of Optometrists (COO) published advice for cosmetic contact lens wear at Halloween, and warned against non-prescribed, novelty lenses.
Research conducted by the COO revealed that 63% of those who plan to dress up for Halloween will consider wearing cosmetic contact lenses, but only 27% of people would buy novelty lenses from an optometrist.
Denise Voon, clinical adviser at the COO, said: ‘If you’re considering wearing novelty lenses this Halloween, make sure you speak to your optometrist. A massive 71% of our survey respondents didn’t realise it is illegal to sell contact lenses with no prescription in the UK without the supervision of a registered optometrist, dispensing optician or doctor.
‘Fancy dress lenses are often purchased by people who are not regular contact lens wearers, meaning they might not know how to handle and care for them properly, which can result in infection, damage to the eye, and potentially sight loss.’
