Last Updated: April 5, 2023
Purchasing contact lenses online may seem convenient, but it comes with risks to your vision and eye health. Contact lenses are Health Canada approved and FDA regulated medical devices.1,2 Each contact lens product is uniquely designed for a particular purpose, such as for providing clear vision, cosmetic appearance, or treatment of certain eye diseases. Improper use of contact lenses can put people at risk of eye infections, allergic reactions, dry eyes, and, in some cases, vision loss.2
Risks associated with ordering contact lens online
- Contact lenses with the wrong prescription and fit
- Counterfeit contact lens products
- Overseas contact lenses that are not approved by Health Canada
- Contact lenses that are inappropriately transported or stored affecting the integrity of the lens
These risks result in contact lenses that are not safe to wear and can lead to serious eye problems. For the safety of your eyes, work with your optometrist to determine the appropriate contact lens that best suits your needs. During a contact lens selection process, various factors are considered including the prescription, material, curvature, diameter, fit, coating, oxygen permeability, deposit resistance, moisture content, cleaning solution, and lifespan of the lens. Seek immediate care if you experience any discomfort or vision changes related to contact lens wear.
References
- Government of Canada. Contact Lens. (2021). Retrieved from Government of Canada: https://www.canada.ca/en/health-canada/services/healthy-living/your-health/medical-information/contact-lenses.html
- Food & Drug Administration. (2020). Buying Contact Lenses. Retrieved from FDA: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/contact-lenses/buying-contact-lenses
- Lim CH et al. Review of contact lens–related complications. Eye Contact Lens. 2018;44:S1-S10.
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