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UWaterloo Researcher Warns Inappropriately Applied Eyeliner Causes Vision Problems

A study completed by Dr. Alison Ng while at Cardiff University found that eyeliner applied to the inner eyelid can contaminate the tear film and may cause vision problems including irritation, blurred vision and infection.

The research team observed that after just five minutes glitter eyeliner applied to the inner lid margin resulted in 15 to 30% more particles in the tear film than when makeup is applied outside the lash line only.

The waxes, oils, silicones and natural gums present in makeup can cause redness and discomfort when they enter the tear film, particularly for contact lens wearers, but the greater concern is that old makeup harbouring bacteria can lead to infections. Dr. Ng, now a fellow at the University of Waterloo, recommends, “If you thoroughly sharpen your pencil eyeliner before each application and get rid of the stuff that’s stuck to the end, you’ll have a fresh tip which can help prevent infection. With a twist-up eyeliner, cut some off the end before each use.”

Further information: https://uwaterloo.ca/news/news/study-finds-eyeliner-application-may-cause-eye-problems

Seeing the World in Black and White

Researchers at University of California San Diego have identified a gene mutation responsible for achromatopsia, a disorder where malformed proteins in the retina’s cone photoreceptors restrict patients to viewing the world in black and white. Patients suffering from achromatopsia also experience reduced visual acuity and sensitivity to bright light, requiring tinted lenses indoors and outdoors, and in severe cases are legally blind.

Congenital achromatopsia is an uncommon inherited disorder that can afflict entire families. There are five genetic mutations known to cause achromatopsia, though cases arose where none of the known mutations were present, leading scientists to suspect that other genes were involved. The research team analyzed the gene sequences of 18 patients from 10 different families that lacked the previously discovered mutations and discovered that all 18 patients had a mutation in the ATF6 gene.

Dr. Jonathan Lin, senior author of the study, said this finding offered the possibility of treating achromatopsia, which currently has no cure, through gene therapy. The ATF6 mutation may be related to other dysfunctions of the cone receptor, such as macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa.

Further Information: http://www.nature.com/ng/journal/vaop/ncurrent/full/ng.3319.html

Marcolin and Iconix Brand Group Renew Licensing Agreement for Candie’s, Bongo and Rampage Eyewear

Marcolin SpA and Iconix Brand Group are proud to have extended their licensing agreement for the design, production and distribution of the eyewear collections of sunglasses and optical frames for Candie’s, Bongo and Rampage brands. These renewals extend the partnership until 2020. Initially launched through licensing partnerships with former and acquired Viva International Group in 2008, the relationship is now managed by Marcolin USA.

 

Contact Lens Market Share Increases Contribute to Cooper Companies Growth in Q2

Cooper Companies reported Q2 (ending April 30, 2015) revenue increases of 5% versus same period last year.  Strong gains (+9%) in CooperVision (CVI), the contact lens business unit of Cooper Companies, offset an 8% decline in CooperSurgical. The company estimates that world-wide CooperVision 2015 calendar quarter 1 contact lenses sales grew 6% versus 1% for the total global market.

Cooper President and CEO, Robert S. Weiss, attributed the sales increase to continued market share gains in contact lenses, and progress with the launch of clariti in US. Single-use spherical lenses showed the greatest growth, up 19% year over year.  In Canada, CooperVision launched clariti brand in June 2015.  Clariti was previously distributed by Centennial Optical.

Gross margins were 61% compared with 65% in last year’s Q2.  The reduction of gross margin was attributed to currency changes, and integration and facility start-up costs.  These were offset in part by favourable product mix.

FYidoctors Opens to the International Stage in Whistler, BC

Calgary  – FYidoctors, a leading Canadian eye care company, is extremely excited to announce that Whistler Eye Clinic, based in Whistler, BC, will join their team. Whistler Eye Clinic, under the leadership of Dr. Shea Colpitts and Dr. Cindy Wagner, has been a highly successful clinic that has served Whistler and the Sea to Sky region for 27 years.

This acquisition will give FYidoctors a presence in this popular resort destination. Equipped with a range of diagnostic technology, a wide selection of designer and exclusive label frames and internal freeform lens designs, this location will establish a new and prominent FYidoctors presence in Western Canada.

“It is with great pride I welcome Whistler Eye Clinic to the FYidoctors team of clinics. Drs. Shea Colpitts and Cindy Wagner have created a thriving practice in a market where many others would not dare to venture. Shea and Cindy are innovative thinkers that have created a strong and positive reputation in the optometric community. The creation of FYidoctors – Whistler is another big step in the building of the FYidoctors national banner.” says FYidoctors CEO and President, Dr. Alan Ulsifer.

This FYidoctors location will offer detailed pre-testing, comprehensive eye exams, a menu of current lens technology and custom fittings with our electronic measurement devices. Patients will continue to receive world-class eye care in a world-class destination.

Dr. Shea Colpitts of Whistler Eye Clinic added, “I am very proud to be bringing our exemplary team onboard with FYidoctors. This organization never ceases to amaze me with its leading-edge direction in patient care and industry standards. Their innovation and leadership will complement our team’s deep understanding of the local community needs.  Our patients, both residents and visitors alike, will greatly benefit.”

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