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The scary truth about trusting store-bought colored contact lenses this Halloween

One Corpus Christi optometrist tells 3NEWS that contacts off the rack could come back to haunt the user.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — The Coastal Bend is preparing for the spookiest day of the year: Halloween.

Corpus Christi residents were out and about grabbing last-minute additions to their costumes, which included a ladybug and a Gryffindor character from the Harry Potter series -- costumes that mostly require special clothes or make-up and props.

But some costumes get way more intricate.

"Our very own created, hand crafted paper clay doll face mask that we're going to go with," said one local couple. "It's going to be a bit cracked, the porcelain look and we're going to have on some suits. considering maybe some whited out contacts."

While colored contacts can help you achieve your haunting look, it is imperative to follow certain guidelines when it comes to these type of enhancements. 

"We really recommend getting contacts that are FDA approved and not from the local beauty supply store," said Corpus Christi optometrist Dr. Amy Luu Mai. "Even online. There are going to be a lot of problems associated such as eye infection, allergic reactions, decreased vision or even permanent vision loss."

But for those who've already used colored contacts, you may not be doomed forever.

"Fortunately, most of this can be treated if you seek medical attention right away," Mai said. "The most severe thing you can get is called pseudomonas, which is a very aggressive bacterial infection and that can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated immediately."

To ensure that you have a spooktacular Halloween, schedule an eye exam so that the lenses fit properly, always wash your hands when handling contacts and purchase from retails who will provide FDA-approved colored contacts. 

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