By Sarah Klein
An eye damaged by a cosmetic contact lens. (OPTICIANS COUNCIL OF CANADA)
As Halloween draws closer and you start to put your costume together, consider avoiding non-corrective colour lenses.
That’s the warning from the Opticians Council of Canada (OCC), who is urging consumers to stay from such costume accessories for a spooky effect.
The OCC says improper lenses can lead to allergic reaction, infection, swelling of the cornea, and even blindness. Severe eye infections have been reported in as little as 24 hours, and some of this damage can be difficult to treat or repair. Eye infections such as keratitis can quickly become serious and cause loss of vision if left untreated.
The contacts are sold at some retail outlets and online to be used as vampire or cat eyes, but the OCC says cosmetic lenses require the same hygiene and care as prescription contact lenses.
The OCC recommends consulting a licensed optician to help make the right decision on a product that won’t hurt your vision.
