The dangers of dodgy novelty contact lenses are being highlighted by world-renowned Moorfields Eye Hospital in London ahead of Halloween.
The UK's leading eye health service provider and world-class centre for ophthalmic research and education, has issued a warning to party-goers about the potential long-term consequences cosmetic lenses can have on their eyesight and health.
Often sold illegally online, as well as in party shops and fashion retailers, novelty lenses are invariably sold without advice on safe use and aren’t made to fit individual eye shapes.
Consultant ophthalmic surgeon at Moorfields, Badrul Hussain said: “We often see patients, including children under 16, who have developed eye conditions, such as corneal abrasions and more seriously, infections after wearing cosmetic contact lenses. I have come across patients sharing lenses with friends, wearing lenses past their expiry date and storing them in tap water - all of these can have devastating effects.
“Most patients who have bought novelty lenses haven’t been shown how to use them safely. Not knowing the basics of using contact lenses properly can increase your risk of developing painful eye injuries, infections and in the worst cases, risk of permanent sight loss.
