Optometry Ireland has strongly warned against the use of cosmetic or ‘fun’ contact lenses this Halloween.
Optometrists say there is a concerning seasonal fashion of buying fun ‘Halloween party’ contact lenses, online or from pop up shops, as part of costumes.
The eye experts warn that there are proven complications associated with wearing these lenses, which can carry serious health risks – and are also illegal.
That warning follows similar concerns from the US ophthalmic sector, reported in Insight, about the proliferation of unapproved eye drops that claim to change eye colour and have been promoted on social media platform TikTok.
The US Food and Drug Administration issued a warning letter to a company producing such products. Laboratory testing found at least one product manufactured breached regulations by consisting “in whole or in part of any filthy, putrid, or decomposed substance”.
Optometry Ireland president Ms Tania Constable said complications arising from contact lens wear can result in devastating consequences with the potential to cause permanent vision loss – and this is supported by many international studies.
“Because of the materials cosmetic contact lenses are made from and the pigments which colour them they are more difficult to clean and sterilise. This makes microbial adherence much stronger.
“The second major risk is that the lenses are not fitted by a registered practitioner, so adherence to safe insertion and removal are often not practiced – resulting in a very high level of complications.”
Constable said: “Optometry Ireland is advising the public not to purchase these or any contact lenses supplied through websites or costume shops.
“In Ireland, as in most countries throughout the world, contact lenses are a regulated product and may only be fitted and supplied by a qualified, regulated professional such as an optometrist.”
More reading
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UK recalls eye gels amid suspected microbial contamination
