Contact Lenses Risk

A new booklet published by the General Optical Council (GOC) warns that people could be putting their sight at risk by wearing illegally sold cosmetic contact lenses. The booklet, also endorsed by the British Contact Lens Association (BCLA), explains that customers should only buy the lenses from a legal source, have them fitted by a professional and follow all advice about how to wear and look after the lenses.
Cosmetic lenses, also known as plano or zero-powered lenses, are often used to change the appearance of the eye in fashion, fancy dress or films. According to law, the lenses can only be sold where a registered optometrist, dispensing optician or medical practitioner is on the premises.
David Howell, Director of Regulatory Services at the GOC said: "We are aware of instances of them being illegally sold by outlets such as hairdressers, market stalls and novelty shops. The GOC is taking action against unregistered retailers selling the lenses illegally using its power to prosecute under the Opticians Act."