1. Buying contact lenses without a prescription is SCARY!

2.  [INSERT NAME OF PRESENTER]  [INSERT CREDENTIALS] 2

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4. 4 Black SwanAvatarLady Gaga

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6. Decorative contacts are dangerous when improperly fitted, worn or cared for. In 2005, the FDA banned the sale of decorative contacts without a prescription. Many lenses, including circle lenses, are not approved for sale in the U.S. 6

7. 7 Abnormal Blood Vessels Grow into the Cornea Cornea is the clear covering of the front of the eye that is essential to seeing clearly Can happen when lenses are not properly fitted Scratch the Eye Corneal abrasion When a corneal abrasion scars the cornea, it can affect vision. Symptoms include pain, a feeling that there is something in your eye, tearing, redness, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, headache Painful and Serious Infections When lenses are not cleaned and disinfected properly Most common infection related to contact lens use is keratitis, an infection of the cornea In severe cases, it can lead to corneal scarring that impairs vision, and may lead to the need for a cornea transplant

8. 8 They should be prescribed by an eye care professional It is crucial that your lenses fit properly, and your individual prescription can only be determined by an eye exam While they may be marketed as cosmetics or fashion accessories, they are not toys Medical Devices Decorative lenses can be easily purchased online or in convenience stores without a prescription It is illegal to sell decorative lenses without a prescription Lenses should not be shared; this can lead to dangerous eye infections Often Sold Illegally Contact lenses are...

9. 9 Decorative Contacts Injure New York Teens

10. 10 Looking cool is not worth a lifetime of vision loss! If you want decorative lenses…  Go see an ophthalmologist, an eye medical doctor, for an eye exam  Learn the right way to take care of your lenses from your ophthalmologist or another eye care professional  Only buy decorative contact lens from an eye care professional or a seller who asks for a prescription

11. 11 For more information, visit GetEyeSmart.org.GetEyeSmart.org