October (Halloween) 2022 Edition
The Dangers of non-regulated Cosmetic Contact Lenses
At least once a year (and usually around this time), I’ll see a patient with complications from colored contact lenses. These complications range from mild irritation, to chronic redness, to severe pain. Colored contact lenses can be great for occasional use and fun for costumes or parties. However, they need to be evaluated and dispensed by a licensed practitioner to avoid potential serious problems. I’ll never forget the patients I’ve seen with complications from colored contacts because they usually had good intentions, but experienced an unfortunate outcome.
One thing about colored contacts is that they typically have limited parameters. In other words, they aren't made for every prescription. Many people will not be able to see with absolute clarity due to these limitations. However, many are okay with this. They simply want to wear the contacts for Halloween or perhaps on special occasions and are okay with mild to moderate blur during these situations.
Another thing about colored contacts is they look different on everyone. This has to do with the natural and unique color of the iris. This means green colored contacts might look very different on you compared to me. For this reason, many prefer to try the color before they commit to it.
Lastly, there are many ways to acquire contacts via online retailers or third party distributors. This is where the real risk comes in. We published a blog on how not all contacts are created equal. This remains especially true for colored contacts. Since these contacts are primarily cosmetic, they are usually not made to be a premium product offering lasting comfort, moisture, and breathability - even some of the well-known and regulated brands. Who knows what the non-regulated, bought online, internationally distributed contacts are made out of or stored in. Putting something like this on your eye and wearing it for any amount of time is certainly taking a chance.
There are several safe, affordable, and comfortable options that we have access to. If you or anyone you know is considering colored contacts for any reason, save yourself the trouble and have a proper fit and evaluation.
At least once a year (and usually around this time), I’ll see a patient with complications from colored contact lenses. These complications range from mild irritation, to chronic redness, to severe pain. Colored contact lenses can be great for occasional use and fun for costumes or parties. However, they need to be evaluated and dispensed by a licensed practitioner to avoid potential serious problems. I’ll never forget the patients I’ve seen with complications from colored contacts because they usually had good intentions, but experienced an unfortunate outcome.
One thing about colored contacts is that they typically have limited parameters. In other words, they aren't made for every prescription. Many people will not be able to see with absolute clarity due to these limitations. However, many are okay with this. They simply want to wear the contacts for Halloween or perhaps on special occasions and are okay with mild to moderate blur during these situations.
Another thing about colored contacts is they look different on everyone. This has to do with the natural and unique color of the iris. This means green colored contacts might look very different on you compared to me. For this reason, many prefer to try the color before they commit to it.
Lastly, there are many ways to acquire contacts via online retailers or third party distributors. This is where the real risk comes in. We published a blog on how not all contacts are created equal. This remains especially true for colored contacts. Since these contacts are primarily cosmetic, they are usually not made to be a premium product offering lasting comfort, moisture, and breathability - even some of the well-known and regulated brands. Who knows what the non-regulated, bought online, internationally distributed contacts are made out of or stored in. Putting something like this on your eye and wearing it for any amount of time is certainly taking a chance.
There are several safe, affordable, and comfortable options that we have access to. If you or anyone you know is considering colored contacts for any reason, save yourself the trouble and have a proper fit and evaluation.