The annual fright-fest is almost upon us and there is a clamour to look as terrifying as possible for Halloween.
If you’re planning on wearing creepy contact lenses this Halloween, you might want to think again.
There are a plethora of ‘contact lenses’ out there that can turn your eyes from looking bloodshot to looking like a scary cat.
The College of Optometrists has warned that these lenses could actually do permanent harm.
They want to remind consumers that these lenses are not properly fitted by experts.
They have also said that as they are ‘fancy dress’ lenses, they could scratch your eyes that could lead to infection and possible blindness.
The experts have also recommended that those that buy these lenses should clean them with recommended contact lens solution, and never use tap water or lick them.
Read more: Loose Women star slams Katie Piper over Halloween comments
Daniel Hardiman-McCartney, clinical adviser for the College of Optometrists, said: “Most people think that you don’t need the same level of care when using novelty contact lenses as you do with ordinary contact lenses, because they don’t have a prescription.
“But, even when purchased from a reputable outlet, the issue isn’t with the lenses themselves, but with how people use them.
“Fancy dress lenses are often purchased by people who do not wear contacts regularly and who may not know how to handle and care for them safely.
“It is absolutely vital for the health of your eye that you are able to remove and insert your contact lenses safely, know how to keep them sterile, and have been instructed on how to do so by an optometrist.”
Specsavers have also pitched into the debate, warning consumers that misusing contact lenses could permanently damage your eyes.
Read more: Reality star shocks fans with ‘insensitive’ slashed wrists costume
Dr Nigel Best, Specsavers clinical spokesman, said: “Halloween contact lenses have become incredibly popular in recent 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, to potentially sight-threatening conditions such as fungal infections like Microbial Keratitis.”
The experts have warned that if you have continued discomfort, then you should see an optometrist, contact lens optician or doctor.