No, it is not safe for kids to wear fake contacts or any contact lenses that have not been prescribed specifically for them by a qualified eye care professional.
Wearing "fake" contacts, often referred to as cosmetic, novelty, or plano (non-corrective) contact lenses purchased without a prescription, poses significant health risks to anyone, especially children whose eyes may be more susceptible to complications.
Why "Fake" Contacts Are Dangerous for Kids (and Adults!)
"Fake" contacts are typically those bought online, at beauty supply stores, costume shops, or from unauthorized vendors, without any involvement from an eye doctor. Despite often being marketed as harmless accessories for costumes, parties, or stylistic changes, these lenses are medical devices and should be treated as such.
As clearly stated by eye health guidelines, it is not safe to wear contact lenses that were not prescribed especially for you. This includes contact lenses purchased without a prescription and contact lenses prescribed for someone else. When lenses are not properly fitted or are unsterile, they can lead to severe eye problems.
Here are some critical dangers associated with non-prescribed fake contacts:
- Eye Infections: Lenses bought without a prescription are often not sterile or handled in sanitary conditions. They can introduce harmful bacteria, fungi, or amoebas into the eye, leading to painful and vision-threatening infections like keratitis.
- Corneal Abrasions: Ill-fitting lenses can scratch the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye), causing painful abrasions. These scratches can become entry points for infections.
- Reduced Oxygen Flow: Cheaply made or improperly fitted lenses can restrict oxygen from reaching the cornea, leading to swelling, blurred vision, and potentially permanent damage to corneal cells.
- Allergic Reactions: Materials or dyes used in unapproved lenses can cause severe allergic reactions, leading to redness, itching, swelling, and discomfort.
- Vision Loss: In severe cases, complications from non-prescribed contact lenses can lead to permanent vision impairment or even blindness, requiring intensive treatment or even corneal transplants.
The Importance of a Professional Eye Exam and Prescription
Even if a child wants cosmetic contacts solely for their appearance and doesn't need vision correction, a prescription from an eye care professional (optometrist or ophthalmologist) is legally required and medically essential. An eye doctor will:
- Assess Eye Health: Ensure the child's eyes are healthy enough to wear contacts.
- Measure and Fit: Accurately measure the curvature and size of the child's eyes to ensure the lenses fit properly, preventing discomfort, scratches, and oxygen deprivation.
- Provide Proper Lenses: Prescribe safe, FDA-approved contact lenses that meet stringent quality and safety standards.
- Instruct on Care: Teach the child (and parent) how to properly insert, remove, clean, and store the lenses, minimizing the risk of infection.
| Feature | Prescribed Contact Lenses | Non-Prescribed ("Fake") Contact Lenses |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Licensed eye care professional (optometrist/ophthalmologist) | Online, beauty stores, costume shops, street vendors |
| Fit | Custom-fitted to individual eye measurements | One-size-fits-all, generic, or poorly sized |
| Safety | Regulated, sterile, FDA-approved materials | Unregulated, unknown materials, potentially unsterile |
| Risk of Harm | Minimal, with proper care and follow-up | High risk of infection, injury, and permanent vision damage |
| Professional Care | Includes eye exam, fitting, follow-up appointments, care instruction | No professional oversight or guidance |
What to Do If Your Child Wants Cosmetic Lenses
If your child expresses interest in wearing cosmetic contact lenses, follow these crucial steps to ensure their eye safety:
- Schedule an Eye Exam: Make an appointment with a licensed eye care professional. Explain that your child is interested in cosmetic contacts.
- Discuss Options with the Doctor: The doctor can recommend safe, FDA-approved cosmetic lenses and ensure they are appropriately fitted. Even "plano" (zero power) lenses require a prescription.
- Learn Proper Care: Ensure both you and your child understand the importance of strict hygiene, proper insertion/removal techniques, and lens cleaning/storage.
- Adhere to Replacement Schedules: Follow the doctor's instructions for how long lenses can be worn and when they need to be replaced.
- Never Share Lenses: Emphasize that contact lenses are medical devices and should never be shared with others.
Prioritizing your child's eye health means always consulting with a professional before allowing them to wear any type of contact lens, real or cosmetic.
