The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) is issuing a warning for everyone planning to purchase costume contact lenses without a prescription. Halloween is the biggest occasion for people to buy yellow cat eye lenses, colored contacts, blacked-out lenses and even all white lenses to complete their costumes. While they may add more “scare” – the overall results could turn into a nightmare.

Novelty and theatrical contact lenses are safe, but only when they are properly prescribed and cared for.  Problems arise when these lenses are not sterile. The results lead to a host of serious eye problems starting with infection. Don’t go blind trying to impress others. If you want to add more drama to your costume, be sure to obtain a valid prescription from an eye doctor that includes a brand name, lens measurements…and are used within the expiration date.

Be safe and enjoy your Halloween!