Costume contact lenses can be an exciting and fun way to take your Halloween costume to the next level. Whether you’re going for glowing vampire eyes, a zombie stare, or just a pop of color, they’re a fun way to transform your look.
But before you put them in, it’s important to know how to choose and wear them safely. Here’s what you should know about getting the right costume contacts for your Halloween look.
What are Costume Contact Lenses?
Costume contact lenses, also called decorative, colored, or cosmetic contact lenses, are designed to change how your eyes look. Some cover the whole eye for a dramatic effect, while others add just a touch of color.
They’re popular at cosplay events, costume parties, and of course, Halloween. While they’re fun, remember: they’re still medical devices… not fashion accessories.
How To Choose Costume Contacts Safely
Here’s how you can make sure you select the most appropriate contact lenses for your Halloween look:
Get a Prescription
Even if your contacts are only for cosmetic purposes, you require a prescription. The FDA classifies all contact lenses as medical devices, and they can’t be legally sold in the U.S. without a valid prescription.
Buying costume contacts for Halloween without a prescription is not only illegal, but it can also put your eyes at risk of serious infections. Before purchasing decorative contacts, obtain a prescription from your eye doctor.
A prescription can ensure the safety and health of your eyes. It contains your eye’s unique measurements, guaranteeing that the contacts are appropriate for your eyes.
This ensures maximum comfort and decreases the risk of irritation and damage.
Buy from a Trusted Source
Always buy FDA-approved lenses from a reputable retailer – such as your eye doctor’s office or an optical shop that requires a prescription.
Avoid buying from:
- Beauty supply stores
- Flea markets
- Costume/novelty shops
- Unverified online sellers
These sources often skip safety standards, and their lenses may not be sterile, properly shaped, or safe for your eyes.
Get a Professional Fit
Contacts are not one-size-fits-all. A poor fit can cause discomfort, blurry vision, or even corneal injury.
During your fitting, your eye doctor will:
- Measure your eyes for proper sizing
- Check that the lenses fit comfortably
- Teach you how to insert, remove, and care for them safely
Pick the Right Type: Daily Disposable vs. Reusable
You also want to consider which type of costume contact lenses is suitable for you. Various kinds of contacts require different care routines.
- Daily disposable contacts are designed for single use, making them quite convenient and an excellent choice for short-term wear. Because they’re discarded after every use, daily disposables considerably reduce the risk of infection and eliminate the hassle of constant maintenance. These are usually the best choice for a one-night event like Halloween.
- Reusable contacts can be worn multiple times and require cleaning and disinfecting after each use. They’re replaced as per the schedule recommended by the manufacturer. Reusables can work well for people who plan to wear costume contacts more frequently, but they’re generally not ideal for occasional wear.
Never Share or Swap Contacts
Avoid swapping or sharing contacts with anyone. Bacteria and infections can be passed around through sharing contacts. Keep them to yourself for your safety.
Safety First, Then Spooky
Costume contact lenses can totally elevate your Halloween costume…as long as you wear them safely. Start with a prescription, buy from a trusted source, and follow your eye doctor’s care instructions.
Need a prescription for costume contacts? Schedule your appointment at VisionPoint Eye Center today to have an eye-safe, stylish, and fa-boo-lous Halloween.
