From Face Paint to Flashing Lenses: How to Keep Your Eyes Safe on Halloween

Halloween is one of the most creative nights of the year - filled with costumes, makeup, and spooky fun. But amidst the excitement of transforming into your favorite character, it’s important to remember one thing: your eyes are not props. Whether you’re using face paint or experimenting with costume contact lenses, protecting your eyes should be part of your Halloween plan.
 

Be Cautious with Face Makeup Around the Eyes

Eye-safe makeup is essential, especially if you’re applying it close to your lashes or waterline. Many costume paints and glitter products contain ingredients that can irritate your eyes or cause allergic reactions. Always check that your face paint or makeup is labeled ophthalmologist-tested or safe for use around eyes.
 

Avoid applying glitter, glue, or adhesive lashes too close to your lash line - these can flake off and scratch the cornea. And at the end of the night, don’t skip removal. Gently clean your eyelids and lashes with a hypoallergenic makeup remover to prevent buildup or irritation overnight.

The Hidden Dangers of Decorative Contact Lenses

Colored or costume contact lenses may seem like a fun way to enhance your Halloween look, but wearing lenses that aren’t prescribed by an eye care professional can lead to serious complications. Many over-the-counter or online sellers advertise “one size fits all” or “no prescription needed” lenses, but this claim is misleading and dangerous.
 

Ill-fitting or unregulated lenses can:
 

•          Scratch your cornea

•          Cause painful infections like keratitis

•          Limit oxygen flow to your eyes due to thick pigments
 

Even a few hours of wear can trigger redness, swelling, or discharge - early signs of infection that require immediate medical attention. Unfortunately, some of these conditions can cause vision impairment if left untreated.
 

How to Safely Enjoy Colored Contacts

If you love the idea of changing your eye color for Halloween, play it safe:
 

•          Get an eye exam and prescription. An optometrist can measure your eyes and ensure the lenses fit properly.

•          Buy only from reputable, FDA-approved retailers. A legitimate seller will require a prescription and sell only approved brands.

•          Follow all care and hygiene instructions. Clean, disinfect, and store your lenses exactly as instructed. Never share them with anyone else.
 

With the right precautions, you can safely enjoy costume contacts without risking your vision.
 

Don’t Let Halloween End in an Eye Emergency

Eye infections and injuries can happen quickly - but they’re easy to prevent with a few simple precautions. Stick to high-quality makeup, clean your tools and brushes, and never purchase contact lenses without a prescription. Your eyes deserve the same care you give to the rest of your costume.
 

Before you plan your Halloween look, schedule an eye exam at Eldorado Vision & Optical to ensure your eyes are healthy and help you safely incorporate contact lenses into your festive style. Visit our office in McKinney, Texas, or call (972) 564-8400 to book an appointment today.