During the Halloween season, kids across the country can be whoever they want—firefighters, princesses, pirates, or any creature from a comic book universe. When it comes to costuming, the only limits are in the imagination.
It’s all for fun—yet there are some potential health risks to avoid when transforming your youngster into their super alter-ego. Certain costuming practices could cause injuries, in particular involving the eyes.
“Some forms of costuming can increase the risk of moderate to severe eye injury,” says Dr. Himali Patel, a Therapeutic Certified Optometrist with Hattiesburg Eye Clinic.” Fortunately, following a few sensible guidelines greatly reduces that risk.”
In recognition of Halloween Safety Month this October, here are 3 tips from Dr. Patel that can help your child avoid costume-related eye injuries this Halloween.
Apply Cosmetic Products Wisely
Although plastic mask kits have been a mainstay of trick or treating for decades, creative homemade costuming has gained in popularity over the last few years. The use of cosmetics is definitely part of this trend.
But Dr. Patel says some types of makeup can cause eye problems. “Many cosmetics contain preservatives, like parabens or benzalkonium chloride, or dyes that could irritate the skin and eyes.”
Be sure, then, that you use only high-quality hypoallergenic cosmetic products—and don’t share the same container with other people. You might also test cosmetic products beforehand on a small patch of skin to gauge any adverse reactions. And be sure to remove any makeup before turning in at night.
Glitter, another cosmetic item, can cause issues if applied too close to the eyes. “Glitter often contains tiny metal particles, which could cause significant irritation if they enter the eyes,” says Dr. Patel.
You should also exercise caution with eyelash extensions. “Many people can have allergic reactions to the adhesive used to attach the extensions, which can cause irritation, infection, or dry eye symptoms,” says Dr. Patel. “If you want to include eyelash extensions, it’s best to have them applied by a trusted aesthetician.”
Use “Soft” Props Without Sharp Surfaces
What’s a knight without a sword, a wizard without a wand, or a princess without a scepter? Yet something too realistic—i.e. sharp and pointed—could prove a hazard to the eyes.
“Props with sharp surfaces, particularly those held in the hand, cause injury if accidentally jabbed in the eye,” says Dr. Patel. “Instead, use only props made of soft materials like Styrofoam.”
Along the same lines, Dr. Patel also recommends avoiding props like eye patches that obstruct vision unless the wearer is standing still or taking pictures. “Covering one eye can interfere with depth perception, which may lead to an accidental fall while the person is moving.”
Avoid Using Costume Contact Lenses
One trend that’s been all the rage for the last few years is the use of costume contact lenses. Often found online or in retail settings, costume lenses can change a wearer’s eye color or transform their eyes into a comic or movie character’s distinctive look.
Just one problem: Costume lenses can cause serious eye injuries, particularly if you obtain them from other than a qualified eye care provider.
“You should always consider contact lenses as medical devices prescribed only by an optometrist or ophthalmologist,” says Dr. Patel. “If you use non-prescription lenses such as those sold through retail outlets, you run the risk of corneal scratches, ulcers, or scarring. It’s possible these injuries could be serious enough to lead to blindness.”
Although you can obtain specialized contact lenses through your eye care provider, Dr. Patel says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends avoiding costume lenses altogether. Rule of thumb: Contact lenses should be used for vision correction only, not costuming.
As always, the watchword during the Halloween season is F-U-N. If you follow these common-sense guidelines, it’s less likely an eye injury will ruin your celebration.
To learn more about protecting and enhancing your vision, be sure to visit us at www.hattiesburgeyeclinic.com. To find out how Hattiesburg Eye Clinic can improve your vision health, call 601-268-5910 (or toll-free 800-624-8254) or schedule a consultation with us at www.hattiesburgeyeclinic.com/contact-us/
