Eerie eyes: Cosmetic lenses used for Halloween can damage vision

Halloween revellers may be at risk of using cosmetic contact lenses as part of their fancy dress costumes, a top eye surgeon has warned, The Association of Optometrists reports.

Dr David Teenan, UK and Ireland medical director for Optical Express has said that the lenses can cause a range of eye conditions such as swelling, infection and even vision loss.

Cosmetic lenses contain dyes that can contain toxic heavy metals such as mercury and lead. These substances can leak into the wearer’s eye and nervous system. Other dangers include the lenses reducing the wearer’s peripheral vision which can affect mobility and balance.

The lenses, which are available from shops are not regulated by UK law, unlike prescription contacts.

Dr Teenan said: “As many cosmetic contact lens wearers aren’t used to hygienic insertion and removal techniques, we unfortunately see lots of patients with infections and complications, particularly after Halloween. The cornea is a very fragile and sensitive tissue that can easily be damaged and scratched by inexperienced contact lens wearers. When the cornea is scratched, it is easy for bacteria and viruses to spread, which could cause irritation, swelling, discharge, and even sight-threatening infections and loss of vision.”

Dr Teenan continued: “If you are going to use contact lenses to complete your Halloween look this year, buy them from a reputable company and visit your local optometrist for advice before wearing them.

“Bear in mind that these lenses are only designed to be worn for a couple of hours, and take extreme care when inserting and removing them. If you experience any difficulty, complications or side-effects from your Halloween lenses, please contact your local optometrist immediately.”