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As we reach the end of October and Halloween, with all its excitement arrives, we wanted to share advice on keeping your eyes safe if you use cosmetic contact lenses. In today’s article we look at some of the associated dangers and how to be safe whilst enjoying the evening if you choose to wear cosmetic contact lenses.
Whether dressing up for Trick or Treating or attending a spooky themed party, coloured contact lenses can make a great accessory to enhance any outfit. However, whilst coloured contact lenses can add that finishing touch to your outfit it is important to only wear lenses that have been correctly fitted by an eye care professional. Whilst cheaper options exist and there are many online options to buy from contact lenses that aren’t correctly fitted can cause damage and pose the risk of developing problems such as blurry vision, conjunctivitis and even eye ulcers.
What are coloured contact lenses?
Coloured contact lenses are contact lenses that have various coloured tints that can enhance an outfit. They are often worn at Halloween and used to accentuate a spooky costume.
How do coloured contact lenses work?
Coloured contact lenses work exactly the same as normal and more common contact but have a layer of coloured film added to the lens. The centre, where the pupil aligns, is clear.
How to apply coloured contact lenses safely?
If you are not used to wearing contact lenses they can be fiddly and difficult to apply and may take some time to get used to. When purchasing from an established eye care provider, they ought to offer you advice and tips on applying them. However, some good rules of thumb when applying them:
- Wash and dry your hands before handling the lens
- Remove the lenses if they are painful
- Try not to wear for extended periods of time
- Never share lenses
- Remove before going to sleep
- Avoid excessive alcohol which can dehydrate you and your eyes
- Never clean with tap water
- Allow to air dry
- Throw them away as per the instructions
- Never wear coloured contact lenses over regular contact lenses
Can you wear coloured contact lenses without a prescription?
At Specsavers, our range of coloured contact lenses are for cosmetic or prescription use.
However, you should be wary to wear them without a prescription because, in the UK, all contact lenses, including non-prescription lenses, are classified as medical devices and should only be supplied by a registered optician. This helps to protect your eyes and avoid unnecessary damage.
Are coloured contact lenses safe for Halloween?
Prescription coloured contact lenses are a great way to finish off ghoulish outfit as an accessory. To be even more safer, it is better to apply the lenses before applying any makeup and, likewise, remove them before taking off any makeup. Powdery and metallic makes ups can also risk irritating the eye so it may be better to avoid these. Coloured contact lenses ought to be purchased from an established eye care professional that, whilst more expensive, can offer you better advice and clarity around wearing them compared to cheaper online retailers.
How long can I keep coloured contact lenses in for?
As with regular contact lenses, your eye care professional will be able to give you specific advice however it is usually recommended to wear contact lenses for a maximum of 10-12 hours.
From all at the OCCS, we wish you a spooky and safe Halloween!
