It started as an impulsive buy from a souvenir shop, but 10 hours after she first put in a pair of coloured contact lenses, Laura Butler, had "extreme pain in both eyes." It's because she had not been properly fitted by an eye care professional, the lenses are shaped to stick to your eye like a suction cup. Ouch!

Halloween is a popular time for people to use coloured contact lenses to enhance their costumes. From blood-drenched vampire eyes to glow-in-the-dark lizard lenses, costume contacts can certainly add a spooky, eye-popping touch. 

Few know the risks associated with costume lenses. Most people believe that decorative lenses do not require the same level of care or consideration as a standard contact lens because they can be purchased over-the-counter or on the Internet. That's far from the truth.

In fact, it is illegal to sell coloured contact lenses without a prescription in the Canada. As of July 15 2016, cosmetic and colour contact lenses can only be purchased at registered ophthalmic clinics. All contact lenses are medical devices that require a prescription and proper fitting by an eye-care professional. Retailers that sell contacts without a prescription are breaking the law, and may be fined.

Never buy coloured contact lenses from a retailer that does not ask for a prescription. There is no such thing as a "one size fits all" contact lens. Lenses that are not properly fitted may scratch the eye or cause blood vessels to grow into the cornea. Even if you have perfect vision, you need to get an eye exam and a prescription from an eye-care professional in order to wear any kind of contact lens.

​In Butler's case (above), the lenses caused an infection and left her with a corneal abrasion. "I was in severe pain and on medication for four weeks, and couldn't see well enough to drive for eight weeks," she said. "I now live with a corneal scar, vision damage and a drooping eyelid."

​Created in 1998 in the MOREL Design Center. Öga eyewear is designed for men, who are looking for sophisticated, functional frames. ÖGA means 'eye' in Swedish.
ÖGA is inspired by the Scandinavian design movement dedicated to function.

The brand is influenced by the shapes and combinations of materials used in contemporary architecture. Focused on function, Öga's Scandinavian design is dedicated to practicality without ever compromising the frame's aesthetic, comfort, or quality. Nothing is left to chance. 

Öga frames are distinguished by design and unexpected combinations of materials like wood and titanium. Inspired by architecture, shapes enhance function and purity.

With its roots in the birthplace of the French eyewear industry, Oxibis Group designs and manufactures creative eyewear focused on dynamically coloured frames. 

Trends are deciphered, adapted and given a new twist with a specific style that has established the Oxibis reputation. 

Taking inspiration from consumers, their tastes and personalities, the Oxibis designers use all of their expertise to produce high quality, creative frames.