Warning on Colored Contact Lenses Issued

U.S. health officials warned Americans not to wear colored contact lenses being sold simply for decoration and without a prescription or a professional fitting, saying the lenses present serious risks of permanent eye injury.

The Food and Drug Administration said noncorrective, decorative contact lenses are being sold directly to consumers at flea markets, convenience stores and beach shops, adding that marketing may increase around Halloween.

“Consumers should understand that decorative contact lenses ... present serious risks to eye health.... ,” FDA Deputy Commissioner Lester Crawford said in a statement.