University of Iowa Health Science Relations and
Christine Sindt, O.D.
Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology & Visual Science
First Published: January 2003
Peer Review Status: Internally Peer Reviewed

A University of Iowa Health Care eye specialist is reminding users of special effects contact lenses to wear them properly to reduce the risk of potentially serious problems.

Special effects contact lenses contain images that alter the appearance of the eyes, such as changing brown eyes to blue, or making a person’s eyes look like those of a cat. Sports fans can even order special effects contact lenses that bear the logo of their favorite team.

"Special effects contact lenses are very popular, especially as we approach Halloween," said Christine Sindt, an optometrist and director of the Contact Lens Service at UI Hospitals and Clinics. "Special effects contact lenses can contain almost any image that patients request."

Sindt has a few words of caution, however. All contact lens users must remove and clean their lenses as instructed. Also, serious problems can develop if special effects contact lenses are not fitted properly or if they are worn by more than one person.

"If contact lenses are not fitted properly, or are shared by friends and acquaintances, ulcers and infections can occur," Sindt explained.

"All contact lens patients should only wear lenses that are specifically prescribed for them, and no one should ever use any contact lenses that were worn by someone else."