Preventing Halloween Eye Injuries in Los Angeles

Happy Halloween!

If you did not know, it is illegal to sell colored contact lenses without a prescription in the United States. All contact lenses are medical devices that require a prescription and proper fitting by an eye-care professional. Retailers that sell contacts without a prescription are breaking the law, and may be fined $11,000 per violation. Many of the lenses found online or in beauty salons, novelty shops or in pop-up Halloween stores are not FDA-approved and are being sold illegally.

Never buy colored contact lenses from a retailer that does not ask for a prescription.

There is no such thing as a "one size fits all" contact lens. Lenses that are not properly fitted may scratch the eye or cause blood vessels to grow into the cornea. Even if you have perfect vision, you need to get an eye exam and a prescription from an eye-care professional in order to wear any kind of contact lens.

If a retailer is selling contact lenses illegally, you can be certain that they are not concerned about your eye health or whether you go blind.

This time of year is an exciting time for kids of all ages to dress up in costume and trick or treat the night away! We know a lot of time and effort goes into making your costume stand out from the crowd, but let’s not forget when using colorful contacts to always follow the rules of contact lens hygiene. All contact lenses are classified by the FDA as medical devices and can cause permanent damage to your eyes if not used properly or obtained from a non-reputable source.

If you notice redness, swelling, excessive discharge, pain or discomfort from wearing contact lenses, remove the lenses and seek immediate medical attention. If you have questions, please contact your eye doctor before hitting the town so you can ensure you have safe and comfortable vision. If any problems occur, make an appointment with your eye doctor as soon as possible.