Halloween Contacts: What to Know Before You Dress Up

Halloween is the perfect time to get creative — spooky costumes, dramatic makeup, and even colored contact lenses that transform your look. Vampire red eyes? Glowing cat eyes? It’s all part of the fun! But before you pop in those decorative lenses, it’s important to know how to do it safely. With a few simple precautions, you can enjoy your costume without putting your eyes at risk.

Why Decorative Contacts Deserve a Second Look

Decorative or “cosmetic” contact lenses are popular for Halloween because they can instantly change your appearance. However, even if you don’t need vision correction, contact lenses are medical devices, and they need to be fitted properly to your eyes.

Lenses that aren’t prescribed or fitted by an eye care professional can cause issues such as:

• Irritation or redness

• Scratched corneas (tiny injuries on the surface of the eye)

• Eye infections

• Blurry vision or discomfort

The good news? These problems are completely avoidable with the right preparation.

Tips for Safe (and Comfortable) Halloween Contacts

Here’s how to enjoy those costume contacts safely and comfortably:

1. Get a Prescription and Proper Fitting
   Even for cosmetic lenses, your optometrist can ensure the right size, material, and fit for your eyes. This helps prevent scratching or lack of oxygen flow.

2. Buy from a Trusted Source
   Only purchase contacts from licensed sellers that require a prescription. Avoid costume shops, online marketplaces, or pop-up Halloween stores that don’t verify prescriptions.

3. Keep Them Clean
   Wash your hands before touching your lenses. Always use the proper contact lens solution (never water or saliva!) to clean and store them.

4. Limit Wear Time
   Costume contacts are for short-term fun — not all-night wear. If your eyes start to feel dry or irritated, remove them right away.

5. Never Share Lenses
   It might sound harmless, but sharing contacts — even just for photos — can spread bacteria and lead to infections.

Listen to Your Eyes

If you notice any pain, redness, swelling, or vision changes after wearing decorative contacts, remove them immediately and contact your optometrist. Prompt attention can prevent minor irritation from turning into something more serious.

Have Fun and Stay Eye-Safe

With a little awareness and care, you can pull off your Halloween look and keep your eyes healthy. Whether you’re going for ghoulish or glamorous, remember — your eyes are one accessory you can’t replace.