So no one doubts those cosmetic contact lenses augmenting your Halloween costumes are creepy and cool. But are they safe? Is taking your vampire costume to the next level worth the risk of a screaming case of pink eye?

The use of special effects or decorative Halloween contact lenses is on the rise and while you can certainly wear them safely, you need to understand the risks and requirements associated with wearing these lenses.

Cosmetic lenses require the same level of care and consideration as prescriptive lenses. And there are some compelling reasons not to buy them from the local costume shop. An optometrist or ophthalmologist should measure each eye to properly fit contact lenses and evaluate how your eye responds. Improper use of contact lenses can result in corneal scratches, conjunctivitis, decreased vision and even blindness.

But if cosmetic lenses are integral to your Halloween costume this year, the FDA these safety guidelines:
• Get an eye exam from an optometrist or ophthalmologist, have your eye and lenses properly measure and get a prescription for the contacts.
• Follow the directions carefully. Properly clean and disinfect your lenses.
• See your eye doctor right away if you experience redness, eye pain that doesn’t go away or a decrease in vision.
• Never share contact lenses with someone else. Because that’s how you wind up with the screaming case of pink eye.