Important Eye Health Tips from Shah Eye Center
As Halloween approaches, many people enjoy dressing up and trying new looks — including colored or decorative contact lenses. While these lenses can seem like a fun way to complete a costume, they can also pose serious risks if not used properly. At Shah Eye Center, we care deeply about protecting your vision and want to share a few essential safety reminders so you can keep your eyes healthy this season.
⚠️ The Risks Behind Non-Prescription Colored Contacts
Colored or costume contact lenses might look harmless, but according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), lenses that are purchased without a prescription or proper fitting can cause:
- Eye infections and corneal ulcers
- Scratches or abrasions on the eye’s surface
- Severe pain, redness, or swelling
- In extreme cases, even vision loss
Many of these problems occur because decorative lenses are often sold online or in stores without requiring a valid prescription. These lenses may not fit your eyes properly or may be made with unsafe materials and dyes that can damage the eye.
👁️ How to Enjoy the Look Safely
If you plan to wear decorative or colored contact lenses, here are some eye-safety steps recommended by the AAO and our doctors at Shah Eye Center:
- Get a professional fitting. Even cosmetic lenses need a proper prescription and fitting from a licensed eye doctor. Every eye is different, and lenses that don’t fit correctly can cause injury.
- Purchase from a trusted source. Only buy contact lenses from retailers that require a valid prescription and verify it with your eye-care provider.
- Follow cleaning and care instructions. Always wash your hands before handling lenses, use the correct cleaning solution, and never use tap water.
- Don’t share contact lenses. Sharing lenses can transfer bacteria or viruses and lead to serious infections.
- Remove lenses immediately if discomfort occurs. If you experience redness, pain, or blurred vision, take them out and schedule an exam as soon as possible.
👓 Fun Without the Risk
If you want to experiment with your look but avoid the risk, there are safe alternatives such as:
- Decorative eyeglasses that don’t touch the eye
- Creative makeup or face paint to add style without contact lenses
- Professional-fit colored lenses prescribed through an eye-care provider
These options allow you to have fun expressing yourself while keeping your eyes healthy.
👨⚕️ Protecting Vision Across the Rio Grande Valley
Your eyes are delicate, and protecting them should always come first — whether for vision correction, fashion, or fun. Shah Eye Center proudly serves patients throughout Mission, McAllen, Weslaco, Rio Grande City, and Brownsville, providing comprehensive eye care including exams, contact-lens fittings, and medical eye treatments.
Before you try any decorative or colored contacts, schedule a visit with one of our doctors. We’ll make sure your eyes are healthy, your lenses fit properly, and that you understand the right way to wear and care for them.
🩺 Stay Safe. Stay Informed.
Non-prescription colored contacts can cause lasting damage if used incorrectly — but with proper guidance, you can enjoy your look safely and confidently.
Protect your eyes this season by choosing safety first and trusting your local vision experts.
📞 To schedule your contact-lens fitting or eye exam, call Shah Eye Center at (956) 583-0202 or visit shaheyecenter.com.