The Spooky Truth About Theatrical Contact Lenses

As Halloween approaches and you're planning your perfectly spooktacular costume, you might be tempted to complete your look with theatrical contact lenses. While these lenses can instantly transform you into a cat, zombie, or otherworldly creature, it's crucial to prioritize eye safety over aesthetics. Here's what you need to know about theatrical contact lenses.

Contact Lenses Are Medical Devices

Many people don't realize that all contact lenses, including theatrical ones, are classified as medical devices by the FDA. This is because they directly interact with your eyes and can impact your vision. Purchasing lenses from anywhere other than a licensed eye care professional can be a frightening proposition.

The Dangers of Unregulated Lenses

• Allergic Reactions: Lenses made from unsuitable materials or packaged with harmful solutions can cause allergic reactions. An optometrist can help ensure you're using hypoallergenic lenses that are safe for your eyes.
  
• Chemical Exposure: Untrusted sources may sell lenses containing harmful chemicals or preservatives. Professional lenses are guaranteed to be safe and chemical-free.
  
• Poor Fit: One size does not fit all when it comes to contact lenses. Ill-fitting lenses can cause corneal irritation, disrupt your tear film, and even lead to painful infections or vision loss.
  
• Oxygen Deprivation: Contact lenses reduce oxygen flow to your cornea. Improper lenses can cause neovascularization - the growth of blood vessels in the normally clear cornea - which can seriously impair vision.

Prioritize Safety Without Sacrificing Style

Get the look you want while keeping your eyes safe.

Glasses and specialty contact lenses (like Scleral and RGPs)are made to your prescription. Soft lenses are not. They have set parameters, meaning you need a professional to evaluate your unique eye for the best fit and power for you. It won’t matter how good you look, if you can’t see!

We know this amount of information can be…haunting, but please take it into consideration when purchasing your lenses. Visit the theatrical lenses page on our website to peruse the different lenses we can order. They usually take up to 10 days to come in, so plan for the time and call us today!

Costumes are fleeting, but blindness is forever. Don’t get scared off, though. Just ask us and we will treat your eyes with the tricks of our trade!

This popular blog post has been update for 2024.