Under the and the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) Contact Lens Rule , it is illegal for any retailer to sell contact lenses in the U.S. without verifying a valid prescription from a licensed eye care professional. This regulation exists because lenses sit directly on the cornea, requiring precise measurements of diameter and base curve to ensure proper oxygen flow and fit.
: Improperly fitted lenses can cause corneal abrasions (scratches), ulcers (open sores), and permanent scarring. where to buy non prescription contacts
The medical risks of bypass-buying unregulated lenses include: Under the and the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC)
: Non-prescription lenses increase the risk of serious infections like keratitis by up to 16 times . : Improperly fitted lenses can cause corneal abrasions
In the United States, purchasing "non-prescription" contact lenses—even those intended purely for cosmetic or decorative purposes—is a complex process governed strictly by federal safety regulations. While many consumers seek these lenses for aesthetic reasons, the legal and medical reality is that . The Legal Framework and Safety Risks