Are you considering wearing novelty contact lenses this Halloween? You’re not alone. Research conducted by The College of Optometrists showed that 63% of those who plan to dress up as part of Halloween celebrations will consider wearing cosmetic contact lenses. The same research shows that only 27% of people would buy novelty lenses from an optometrist, despite it being illegal to sell contact lenses with no prescription in the UK without the supervision of a registered optometrist, dispensing optician or doctor.
Denise Voon MCOptom, Clinical Adviser at The College of Optometrists, explains: “If you’re considering wearing novelty lenses this Halloween, make sure you speak to your optometrist. A massive 71% of our survey respondents didn’t realise it is illegal to sell contact lenses with no prescription in the UK without the supervision of a registered optometrist, dispensing optician or doctor.
“Fancy dress lenses are often purchased by people who are not regular contact lens wearers, meaning they might not know how to handle and care for them properly, which can result in infection, damage to the eye, and potentially sight loss. Your optometrist can advise you on what lenses will be suitable for you, how long you can wear them, how to safely apply and remove them, and how to care for them.”
