Use and misuse of cosmetic contact lenses among US adolescents in Southeast Texas

BACKGROUND: Cosmetic contact lenses (CCL) are popular among adolescents, but incorrect use can harm the eye. METHODS: This study assessed CCL hygiene behaviors among adolescents attending a Texas pediatric clinic. Anonymous surveys about CCL hygiene practices were administered to adolescents 13–18 years old. RESULTS: We found that 14% (53/392) of respondents had worn CCL, of which 83% were females. Over 70% reported first use at <15 years old. Knowledge about CCL was low and two-thirds of users had not been instructed on proper care. More than half stored them in water and did not rinse them with contact solution after removal. Over one-third wore CCL >8 hours/day. Moreover, 15% of CCL users reported borrowing someone else’s CCL. Complications resulting from wearing CCL were common. CONCLUSION: This study highlights poor CCL hygiene among adolescents. These data demonstrate the need to develop interventions to educate adolescents on proper care and risks associated with CCLs.