With Halloween just around the corner, here s something to think about when trying to figure out the last touches on you or your child s costume. You may think it looks real cool to have crazy-looking eyes in shades of red or a variety of designs, but these counterfeit colored contact lenses sold in novelty shops, salons, beauty supply stores and of course online, may actually be very harmful.
John Roth, director of FDA s Office of Criminal Investigations, warns consumers: "Our concern is that consumers who buy and use decorative contact lenses without a valid prescription can run significant risks of eye injuries, including blindness. It is always better to involve a qualified eye care professional and protect your vision." And in fact, the FDA s Office of Criminal Investigations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement s Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protections are now working to remove these unapproved lenses from the market.
We at ACSH are all for getting into the Halloween spirit, but this is definitely a good safety precaution to take. And there are a few other things you can do as well, such as making sure Halloween costumes contain flame retardants. Above all, don t worry about those toxic chemicals in the face paint or makeup you may be using, enjoy the traditional Halloween candy and have fun, but stay safe.
