Zero-powered contact lenses
Help combat the illegal sale and supply of contact lenses from non-optical retailers with this leaflet
We know, from member feedback, that many practitioners are aware of the illegal sale of zero-powered cosmetic and novelty contact lenses in their local area and would like to notify vendors that they are breaking the law but feel they haven’t the means to do so.
To help fulfil this, we produced a leaflet in collaboration with the General Optical Council (GOC) – Do you know the law on selling contact lenses?
The leaflet, which has been designed to look like a formal cease and desist notice, presents the facts about the legislation and the GOC’s remit to take action in cases where contact lenses are being supplied illegally.
Individuals who wear contact lenses that have not been correctly fitted by a qualified practitioner may be putting the health of their eyes at risk. For this reason cosmetic lenses can only be supplied legally, under the supervision of a registered optometrist, dispensing optician or medical practitioner.
Practitioners who have identified local retailers selling contact lenses illegally and who wish to advise them of the law and request them to stop selling, are invited to print and distribute this leaflet to the relevant shops.
This can be done in-person or via post, notifying the GOC if the identified retailer continues to stock the lenses after a period of time.