Ohio AG warns against sales of cosmetic contact lenses

COLUMBUS — Ohio Attorney General Richard Cordray along with Prevent Blindness Ohio and the Ohio Optical Dispensers Board today warned consumers about the danger of over-the-counter sales of decorative contact lenses during this Halloween season.

According to the Optical Dispensers Board, the number of consumer complaints filed regarding the illegal sale of cosmetic contact lenses and the number of resulting cease-and-desist orders issued to violating businesses have shown a sharp increase in the past two years.

In fiscal year 2008, the board issued two cease-and-desist orders based on consumer complaints. In 2009, eight such orders were issued. So far in FY 2010 (since July 1, 2009), seven cease-and-desist orders have been issued – on pace to far surpass previous years.

"Especially around the Halloween costume season, we see a rise in the sales of decorative contact lenses," said Cordray. "What few people realize is that lenses sold over-the-counter can cause serious eye infections that can lead to permanent damage, including blindness. Under Ohio law, contacts can only be dispensed with a valid written prescription. Therefore, those selling the lenses over-the- counter are doing so illegally."

Cordray encouraged Ohioans to report the illegal sales to the Ohio Optical Dispensers Board at (614) 466-9709.