College of Optometrists advises the public to consider their health when dressing up

The College of Optometrists has issued the following advice for those intending to wear contact lenses this Halloween:  

• Unlike standard contact lenses, fancy dress lenses may not be tailored to your eyes, which can increase the risk of eye health issues. Lenses that are not properly fitted, or from unreputable sources may increase the risk of contact lens-related complications such as scratching your eye or causing an infection, so it is important that any contact lenses you wear are fitted and dispensed by a qualified professional who can give you the appropriate advice on how to wear and use them safely
• If you are re-wearing contact lenses of any sort, including novelty lenses, you must make sure that they are suitable for this purpose and only within the re-use period after first opening. You should clean and disinfect them thoroughly after use with the recommended contact lens solution. Never use tap water, the wrong solution, or lick them – and if they drop on the floor don’t simply pop them back in
• You should never use contact lenses after their expiry date
• You should not share contact lenses with friends, as even quickly trying them on can lead to eye infections
• Driving with novelty lenses (even if you wear glasses over the top) may also be dangerous: if the lenses aperture does not align with your pupil they may impair your vision
• If you experience any eye discomfort when, or after, wearing any type of contact lens contact your optometrist for advice without delay.