Every Halloween, many people look for the perfect finishing touch to their costumes - often turning to colorful or decorative contact lenses that transform their eyes into something spooky or otherworldly. But what seems like a harmless accessory can quickly turn into a nightmare for your vision.
 

A Fright You Didn’t Expect

Contact lenses are medical devices, not costume accessories. In the United States, it is illegal to sell contact lenses without a prescription. Yet, unregulated lenses are still sold online, at beauty stores, and even at flea markets - often marketed as “one size fits all” or “no doctor visit needed.”
 

That claim is not only false but dangerous. Every eye is unique, and lenses that don’t properly fit can cause severe complications, including:
 

•          Corneal abrasions (scratches on the eye’s surface)

•          Corneal ulcers (open sores that can permanently scar the cornea)

•          Bacterial infections like keratitis, which can lead to blindness
 

Because decorative lenses are often thicker and made with low-quality pigments, they allow less oxygen to reach the eye, further increasing your risk of infection or injury.
 

How Damage Happens Fast

Eye infections can develop within hours of wearing poorly made lenses. If you notice redness, swelling, pain, or unusual discharge, remove the contacts immediately and seek medical attention. In severe cases, corneal damage may require surgery or even a corneal transplant - and vision loss may still be permanent.
 

How to Safely Enjoy Colored Contacts

If you want to wear colored contact lenses safely, start by getting an eye exam and a valid prescription. Your doctor will take precise measurements of your eyes to ensure a proper fit and confirm that you’re a good candidate for contact lenses. This step is essential for preventing complications and protecting your long-term eye health.
 

Next, always buy your lenses from trusted, FDA-approved retailers that require a prescription. Avoid online stores or vendors that don’t ask for one - these sellers often provide unregulated lenses that can cause serious harm.
 

Once you have your lenses, be sure to follow all care instructions carefully. Clean, disinfect, and store your contacts exactly as directed by your eye care provider. Even with prescription lenses, improper cleaning or wearing them for too long can lead to painful infections.
 

Finally, never share contact lenses with anyone else. Sharing lenses, even briefly, can spread harmful bacteria or viruses and result in severe eye infections. Keeping your lenses personal and following your ophthalmologist’s guidance are the best ways to enjoy colored contacts safely.
 

Don’t Let a Costume Cost You Your Sight

Halloween should be about fun - not emergency eye care. Skip the shortcuts and play it safe. The risks of buying unregulated colored contacts simply aren’t worth it.
 

Schedule your eye exam at North Texas Ophthalmology Associates to make sure your eyes stay healthy during Halloween. Visit us at www.ntoaeye.com or call us at (940) 240-8400 to book an appointment today.