Summary: Costume contacts aren’t only popular in Hollywood. Anyone can pick them up nowadays.

Cosmetic or decorative contact lenses can be a fun way to change how your eyes look – whether it’s altering the color or the pupil shape to give a unique effect. Common examples of costume contact lenses include blackout contacts cat eyes, and zombie eye contacts. These types of lenses can be made with or without vision correction.

It’s important to note retailers are not allows to sell contact lenses without a valid prescription. Companies that do so may be working on illegal grounds.

Is it Dangerous to Wear Costume Contacts?

Non-prescription costume contacts and even your everyday Acuvue Vita contact lenses can cut, scratch, and infect your eye if they do not fit right or are not cared for correctly. Costume lenses may let less oxygen through to the eye, because the pigments and paints are used to add the color. Therefore, it may not be ideal to wear them for long periods of time. However, by following the proper care protocols, you shouldn’t have too many issues barring you never touch your eyes and wash your hands when handling your lenses.

Costume Contacts and Prescriptions

It’s important to remember that even though they are used as props, costume contact lenses are still considered medical devices that require the user to practice good hygienic practices. When people use contact lenses of any kind, they need to understand the risks. Even under the best supervision, injuries and infections can occur. After your visit to the eye doctor, you should receive a prescription. You can then shop online from retailers like Lens.com for example to purchase an FDA-approved product.