Costume contact lenses can be scary, indeed

Oregon law requires that any and all contact lenses be dispensed with a prescription. If your local Halloween store, boutique, piercing or tattoo shop is selling contact lenses without a prescription–BEWARE.

“It’s easy to forget that fun can turn dangerous. Costume contact lenses look fun but without the proper fitting and care instructions, the wearer can be at risk for permanent eye damage,” said the Oregon Board of Optometry’s President Jeff Pelson, OD of Grants Pass.

The Oregon Board of Optometry was created in 1905 to regulate the optometric profession in Oregon. One of the regulated activities is the dispensing and fitting of contact lenses. Many retailers and consumers don’t realize there is potential danger in wearing contact lenses. In Oregon, selling contact lenses without a valid prescription is unlawful.

“What should be a one-time event focusing on fun could end up being a long-term nightmare–not what anyone is looking for, added Pelson.”As a Board, we are committed to public safety. We want consumers to buy products that protect and enhance their eye sight and health.”

If someone in your area is selling contact lenses without a prescription, think twice before buying them. If unlawful sales are reported to the Board, the business is typically contacted with a warning letter. Further violations may lead to a civil penalty of up to $10,000 plus the costs of the disciplinary proceedings.

Protect yourself and your loved ones–don’t buy contacts from any retailer that doesn’t have a valid prescription and doesn’t have the necessary qualifications for the work they are doing.