Optometry Ireland has warned against the use of cosmetic or ‘fun’ contact lenses this Halloween which can have devastating consequences including permanent vision loss.
Optometrists have raised concerns about a seasonal trend of buying novelty Halloween contact lenses online or from pop-up shops and have warned of proven complications and serious health risks associated with wearing these.
Optometry Ireland president Tania Constable explained: ‘Because of the materials cosmetic contact lenses are made from and the pigments which colour them they are more difficult to clean and sterilise, making microbial adherence much stronger.’
‘Optometry Ireland is advising the public not to purchase these or any contact lenses supplied through websites or costume shops. Not only is it dangerous, but it also illegal,’ said Ms Constable.
She also urged the public to report any evidence of shops supplying these lenses to the State health and social care regulator CORU.
