PRESS RELEASE
Friday, October 6 2017

BCLA social media campaign will target beauty bloggers to warn of dangers of Halloween lenses

The British Contact Lens Association is targeting a network of ‘superstar’ beauty bloggers to help warn of the dangers of novelty Halloween lenses.

Experts have warned that adding ‘spooky’ contact lenses to your fancy dress outfit could prompt a real-life horror show and put your sight at risk.

The BCLA is now turning to a network of high profile social media influencers to reach the thousands of revellers who will include novelty lenses as part of their Halloween costume and warn they could pose a ghoulish threat to eye health.

BCLA president Keith Tempany said: “Wearing fancy lenses might make you look cool for one night on Halloween but losing your sight could be a lifelong horror story.

“We know that young people look up to beauty bloggers. They have a huge audience and their influence is phenomenal. If we can encourage them to warn of the potential dangers and suggest alternatives then teenagers are far more likely to sit up and take notice.

“It’s vital we get the message out. We have created an infographic outlining the possible risks and we will be asking bloggers to share across Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube, potentially reaching millions of young people.”

The social media campaign will target 20 of the top beauty bloggers in the UK, including Zoella who has more than 3m Twitter followers, make-up artists Pixiwoo and London Fashion Week regular Tanya Burr.

The lenses, which alter eye colour and have been made popular by smash hit TV series and films including Twilight, are often shared around amongst friends -  increasing the risk of corneal ulcers and infections.

Mr Tempany added: “Cosmetic coloured lenses are a medical device and should be prescribed by an eye care professional. These lenses should only be purchased from – and fitted by – a registered practitioner.

“By sharing coloured contact lenses young people are playing Russian roulette with their eye health and putting their sight at risk.”

The campaign will warn against buying lenses from fashion outlets, market stalls and unregistered online sellers and will stress the importance of visiting an eye care professional to ensure lenses fit properly and receive expert advice on how to wear and store them safely.


Notes to editors

• For further information, or to arrange further interviews, please call Daniel Owens from Orange Juice Communications on 07909 916668 or email [email protected]