CATEGORY: Health
Halloween and cosmetic lenses
Halloween is coming and everyone is polishing their costume. : beware of cosmetic contact lenses which can be more dangerous than you think.
In Canada, contact lenses, whether cosmetic or not, are considered medical products. Whether for export or sale, they must be approved by Health Canada.
The Ordre des Optométristes du Québec recommends that everyone consult an optometrist before wearing lenses, whether for medical or cosmetic purposes.
Risks associated with wearing contact lenses
- Lenses are, no more and no less, a foreign body on the eye. In the event of improper use or care, the wearer may develop an infection or a corneal ulcer. This can sometimes even lead to loss of vision.
- The optometrist who prescribes lenses will also give you instructions on wearing, hygiene and care. If these indications are not respected or not known by the wearer, the lens becomes an agent for the transmission of bacteria, viruses or fungi.
60% of cosmetic contact lens wearers without optometrist advice have problems with contact lens wear.
- Wearers of cosmetic contact lenses are more at risk of developing irritation or infection than regular wearers.
Usual risk of a corneal ulcer in a regular contact lens wearer = 20/10,000. This number is 6 times higher in occasional wearers.
- Each eye is different and requires special adjustment by an eye care professional. If they are obtained elsewhere, there is no guarantee that the lens will be the right one for your eyes (curvature, diameter, etc.). In the event of a poor fit, visual discomfort or even a cut, abrasion or infection of the surface of the eye may appear.
- Cosmetic contact lenses are often thicker due to paint or coloring pigments. They therefore allow less oxygen to pass to the eye.
Where and how to get cosmetic contact lenses?
The Ordre des Optométristes du Québec recommends an initial examination before wearing contact lenses, whether medical or cosmetic. Thus, the professional can check eye health and conditions that may affect lens wear.
At the same time, the optometrist can give instructions for wearing, hygiene and care of contact lenses.
As with regular lenses, the wearer should obtain them from an optometrist or other eye care professional to ensure the quality of the materials and access to competent services in the event of complications.
If you feel uncomfortable with contact lenses, you should stop wearing them. If the eyes are red, sore, or runny, it may be a sign of an eye infection. Consult an optometrist or doctor to have your eyes examined.
Never share or exchange contact lenses with anyone.
When it comes to Halloween makeup around the eyes, be sure to use the right materials and products.