Novelty contact lenses, also known as theatrical or cosmetic contact lenses, have attained a great deal of popularity among young people. Commonly used around Halloween, novelty contact lenses are often viewed as the 'in' thing to have. Why would they not be? Even the simplest of novelty contact lenses can transform the eye into a magnificent work of art. Some can do this while allowing the eye to glow in the dark. However, these benefits mean nothing if the novelty contact lenses harm the eye in some way, which is typically the case with non-prescriptive novelty contact lenses.

Eye abrasion and conjunctivitis

Eye abrasion and conjunctivitis are two dangers associated with novelty contact lenses that are not as serious as other types of dangers. Of these two eye abrasion is the least damaging, though it can be painful.

Treatment of eye abrasion depends on the severity of the abrasion. Less severe abrasions can be healed by eye drops along with resting the eye as much as possible. Severe abrasions may require a bandage contact lens, which is a special type of contact lens that helps aide the conjunctiva in the healing process, (acting just like a regular band-aid over a cut on the skin).

Conjunctivitis may require a longer time for healing. Unlike an eye abrasion, conjunctivitis is an actual infection that, while not as serious as upcoming novelty contact complications to be discussed, can be problematic if not treated immediately. Symptoms of conjunctivitis include eye redness, blurry vision and a pus-filled discharge. It is imperative that if a person gets conjunctivitis they treat the illness in the same way as they would the flu, since it is highly contagious. Bed rest and antibiotics are what is needed to help cure the condition.

Serious eye conditions from misusing contact lenses

There are the dangers that can result in blindness, (which can be partial or total), or blindness and removal of the eye. This can be due to more serious infections which cause corneal edema. Corneal edema is when the cornea becomes swollen. While it doesn't sound serious it actually can be a condition that can result in severe eye damage. Symptoms of corneal edema include vision loss and bullae, (a cluster of painful blisters), on the eye. Sometimes corneal edema is so serious a corneal transplant is needed to restore the eye. If corneal edema is the result of Pseudomonas Bacterium, a type of eye infection, one could lose their eye.

How are novelty contact lenses dangerous?

One reason could be due to the contact itself not fitting properly. Many novelty contact lenses have been marketed as being one-size-fits-all, but this is really a misnomer. No contact can truly fit every eye; if that was the case there wouldn't be a need for optometrists. The poorly-fit contact deprives the cornea of oxygen, making it susceptible to the above-mentioned conditions.

The other reason why novelty contacts are dangerous is because of public perception. A lot of people, especially those who are young, think novelty contact lenses are another fashion accessory. They may not take the necessary precautions they would with regular contacts. This could include not washing them in solution, not cleaning one's hands before insertion or removal or even swapping them with friends.

Indeed, if a person decides to wear novelty contact lenses, they must realize that they are still a medical device being put on a rather delicate part of the body. Proper hygienic procedures along with making sure they get a pair that fit, (which can only be done through a licensed optometrist), are the only ways to ensure novelty contact lenses are worn safely.