Halloween is a time for family fun and costumed carousing — but one popular costume accessory can pose a serious risk to children’s vision, changing what should be a spooky good time into a real nightmare.
American Academy of Ophthalmology says one of the biggest nights for eye injuries for keiki is Halloween, as some costumes include decorative eyewear or non-prescription contact lenses that can be harmful to eyes.
Colored or specialty contact lenses could seem like a fun way to complete a Halloween costume, illegally sold or poorly made cosmetic lenses might not be sterile and can cause serious eye problems.
“Parents want Halloween to be fun and memorable for their children, but eye safety should always be part of the costume checklist,” said Hawaiian Eye Center optometrist Dr. Steven Rhee. “A contact lens is a medical device, even when it is being used only for cosmetic purposes. Lenses that are not properly prescribed, fitted and cared for can damage the eye and increase the risk of infection.”
Poorly fitting or contaminated lenses can lead to:
- Corneal scratches and abrasions.
- Eye infections.
- Redness, swelling and pain.
- Light sensitivity and blurred vision.
- Corneal ulcers.
- Permanent vision damage or blindness in severe cases.
Eye safety should be part of every child’s costume planning, especially when Halloween celebrations often include many school events and neighborhood parties, trick-or-treating and family gatherings, giving them even more incentive to wear them.
Parents considering purchasing decorative contact lenses are recommended to get an eye examination and prescription from an eyecare professional, as well as purchase lenses from a legitimate authorized source.
Parents should also remind children:
- Pay attention to warning signs. If a child experiences eye pain, redness, swelling, discharge, unusual sensitivity to light or blurred vision after wearing contact lenses, remove the lenses and seek prompt professional eye care.
- Never share contact lenses. Contact lenses should never be shared with siblings, friends or classmates.
- Never buy costume lenses from an unknown source. Avoid lenses sold without a prescription at costume shops, beauty stores, novelty shops, flea markets, online marketplaces or other unauthorized sellers.
- Follow cleaning and wearing instructions. Improper cleaning, storage or extended wear can increase risk of infection.
Parents can still help keiki create a fun, dramatic Halloween look without putting their eyesight at risk.
Courtesy Photo: Hawaiian Eye Center- Courtesy Photo: Hawaiian Eye Center
- Courtesy Photo: Hawaiian Eye Center
Face paint, makeup, masks and other costume accessories are just as fun and creative without introducing an unnecessary risk to the eyes.
Families should consult an eyecare professional if they need additional information about protecting their children’s eyes and maintaining healthy vision.
Visit the Hawaiian Eye Center website for more information about eye safety, protection and exams.
