Coloured contact lenses can turn ordinary eyes into those of a vampire, cat, zombie or favourite movie character. That may complete a Halloween costume, but the lenses themselves should never be treated like makeup or a novelty accessory.

In Canada, decorative contact lenses are regulated as medical devices—even when they do not correct vision.

They sit directly on the surface of the eye, and wearing the wrong lenses or handling them improperly can have serious consequences.

Why does the fit matter?

Contact lenses are not one-size-fits-all.

A lens that is too tight, too loose or made from an unsuitable material may move incorrectly, reduce the oxygen reaching the cornea or damage the surface of the eye.

Poorly fitted or contaminated lenses can lead to:

  • Eye irritation and redness
  • Allergic reactions
  • Corneal scratches
  • Pink eye
  • Serious eye infections
  • Corneal ulcers
  • Permanent vision loss in severe cases

A lens can feel uncomfortable because it does not fit properly, but the absence of discomfort does not guarantee that it is safe.

Be careful where you buy them

Costume lenses purchased from an unverified website, costume store, flea market or beauty outlet may not meet Canadian safety requirements.

Health Canada assesses licensed decorative contact lenses for safety, effectiveness and quality. Look for a valid medical-device licence and purchase lenses through a reputable source.

An optometrist can measure your eyes, assess the fit and show you how to insert, remove and care for the lenses safely.

A legitimate seller should not treat decorative lenses as though they are no different from false eyelashes or face paint.

Never share contact lenses

Sharing lenses can transfer bacteria, viruses and other contaminants directly from one person’s eyes to another’s.

Do not borrow a friend’s lenses, pass your lenses to someone else or try on a pair to see how they look. This applies even if the lenses have been worn only briefly.

You should also never:

  • Sleep in costume lenses
  • Rinse them with tap water
  • Use saliva to moisten them
  • Wear them longer than directed
  • Mix fresh solution with old solution
  • Continue wearing them if your eyes become uncomfortable

Wash and thoroughly dry your hands before touching any contact lens.

Remove them if something feels wrong

Take the lenses out immediately if you develop pain, redness, blurred vision, discharge or unusual sensitivity to light.

Do not put them back in to see whether the problem has passed. Contact an optometrist promptly, as some contact-lens complications can progress quickly.

If possible, keep the lenses and their packaging. That information may help your eye-care provider determine what happened.

Enjoy the costume without gambling with your sight

Costume contact lenses can be worn safely when they come from a reputable source, fit properly and are handled correctly.

The costume lasts one night. Your eyes have to last a lifetime.

Talk to Dr. Amy Bakelaar in Spruce Grove before wearing decorative contact lenses.