Illegal sales of color contacts spur warnings

Over-the-counter sales of fake contact lenses spike during the holidays, but are illegal in most states and can cause permanent eye damage and blindness, warn consumer interest groups on the Better Business Bureau's web site.

The reminder, originating from the Ohio attorney general's office, addresses a sharp increase in the number of consumer complaints and resulting cease-and-desist orders to businesses selling color contacts on the black market - at gas stations, beauty supply stores and Halloween costume shops.