Elgin optician issues warning over Halloween costume lenses

AN ELGIN optician has warned Halloween revellers against the temptation to buy cheap costume lenses, which can cause nasty side-effects.

While novelty contact lenses may seem like a perfect dressing-up addition, they can cause damage to eyes if not handled correctly, Specsavers Elgin optometrist director Ruth Knox advised.

The optician said not knowing how to wear or care for the lenses can result in minor eye conditions, such as red eye, infections and scratches, as well as more serious complications that can, in severe cases, lead to sight loss.

She urged people against purchasing cheap products online.

Ruth said: "Halloween contact lenses have been popular for many years. However, consumers often are not aware of the risks associated with misusing contact lenses.

"In particular, if a wearer hasn’t had a proper consultation with an optometrist beforehand, they probably haven’t been taught how to wear or care for their lenses correctly.

"The results can be nasty and range from mildly irritating complications, such as blurry vision and conjunctivitis, to potentially sight-threatening conditions such as fungal infections like microbial keratitis."

She added: "If you do start to notice any discomfort, irritation or pain during or after wearing any contact lens it is important you visit an optician immediately."

It is also important, she added, to ensure any spooktacular make-up is properly removed before going to bed, particularly eyeliner and mascara.

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