Rapid City, S.D. – Halloween revelers may enjoy an extra hour of festivities after the clocks fall back Sunday, but local eye‑care professionals stress that the time change is no excuse to extend the wear of decorative contact lenses.
Follow the prescribed schedule
Dr. David Jupiter, an optometrist with Lenspricer, urges anyone using costume lenses to remove them according to the recommended wearing schedule, not to treat the additional hour as extra time for their eyes. “The lenses are medical devices, even when they don’t correct vision,” he said. “They require a proper prescription and fitting, just like any other contact lens.”
Risks of over‑use and improper fit
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that improperly fitted decorative lenses can scratch the cornea and increase the risk of ulcers, infections, scarring and permanent vision loss. Sleeping in any contact lens raises the chance of eye infection six to eight times, according to CDC data.
Proper hygiene matters
For reusable lenses, the CDC recommends using fresh disinfecting solution—not water, saliva or homemade mixtures. Decorative lenses should be purchased from licensed providers with a valid prescription, ensuring they are correctly sized and fitted.
When to remove lenses
Dr. Jupiter also advises anyone who experiences redness, discomfort or blurred vision to remove the lenses immediately. “If your eyes feel irritated, it’s a sign the lenses are doing more harm than good,” he explained.
Protecting families this Halloween
Parents are encouraged to discuss proper lens care with their children before the holiday. By planning ahead—cleaning lenses, having a spare pair of glasses, and setting a clear removal time—families can enjoy Halloween safely without compromising eye health.
Additional resources
For more information on safe contact‑lens practices, visit the CDC’s eye‑health page or consult a local optometrist. Rapid City residents can also call the South Dakota Department of Health’s eye‑care hotline for guidance.
Original reporting: KOTA (Gray) – local — read the source article.
