According to Dr. Caroline Freeman of Savannah Family Eye Care, there are three main concerns with using costume contact lenses:
1) The Lenses themselves—contamination, low oxygen transmissibility and the possibility of three main pathogens: bacteria, fungus, and acanthamoeba (a micro-organism that can eat through your cornea).
These lenses come in blister packs with solution. The FDA tests and regulates packaging for contamination. But a 2017 study showed that 60% of imported, internet, and non-regulated lenses (like some sold at gas stations and tattoo parlors) tested positive for microbial contamination.
Costume lenses can be made of materials that are unhealthy to the eye. On average, a costume lens lets through 1/10 the oxygen of the average prescription silicon-hydrogel reusable contact lens. The eye cannot survive without oxygen, so restricting the cornea’s oxygen supply can be detrimental to the eye, especially if worn for an expended period of time.
2) Poor lens fit—one size does not fit all
Contact lenses come in a variety of parameters in order to fit a variety of eye shapes/sizes. Without proper measurements or evaluation, there is no way for a contact lens wearer to ensure a safe, comfortable fit.
A poor fit increases the likelihood of sustaining corneal abrasions and erosions, both of which are very painful and increase the chance of infection.
3) Lens hygiene and care—hand washing, cleaning of lenses, proper storage, not sharing, etc.
Paramount to a safe contact lens evaluation is educating a patient on the proper care and handling of the contact lenses. Patients need to know what solution(s) to use and how to properly clean the lenses as well as appropriate wear schedule (how many hours the lenses can be worn, can they be slept in, and what is the lifespan of the lenses).
Lens hygiene practices like hand washing before any contact with the lens is to be made and absolutely no sharing of lenses under any circumstances.
Takeaways:
There are many reputable costume contact lens companies that can supply safe, well-made lenses with or without a patient’s prescription. An evaluation and fitting with an optometrist or ophthalmologist will ensure successful wear.
But plan ahead, because most reputable lenses are made to order and need at least two weeks to arrive.
If you find yourself with a red, irritated, or painful eye after any type of contact lens wear, contact your eye doctor immediately. Most cases can be resolved quickly and without long-term ramifications as long as treatment is sought promptly.
