Spooky Side Effects: What Halloween Makeup Does to Your Eyes

Yesterday I wrote about Halloween contact lenses. Today I need to address the heavy Halloween make up on many Halloween fun seekers. I hope all my readers are sensible and know what how to take care of your eyes. But if you have young children at home, do remind them to have good eye hygiene during these Halloween party time at home or at the office.

Halloween is a time for creativity and fun, with makeup playing a huge role in transforming into spooky creatures, glamorous ghouls, or otherworldly beings. But while your Halloween makeup may help you achieve the perfect look, it could also have some scary side effects on your eyes. The eyes are particularly sensitive, and certain ingredients or application techniques can cause irritation or even lasting damage. Before you reach for that vibrant eyeshadow or ghoulish eyeliner, let’s uncover the spooky truth about what Halloween makeup might be doing to your eyes—and how you can keep them safe.

1. Eye Irritation and Allergic Reactions

Many Halloween makeup products are designed for one-time use and may not meet the same safety standards as everyday cosmetics. Cheaper brands, in particular, can contain harmful ingredients such as parabens, formaldehyde, or heavy metals like lead. These chemicals may irritate the sensitive skin around your eyes, causing redness, itching, or swelling.

Tip: Always read the ingredient list before applying any makeup near your eyes. If you have sensitive skin, consider doing a patch test on your wrist or the back of your hand to check for any adverse reactions.

2. Infections from Contaminated Makeup

Costume makeup and face paints are often packaged in less sanitary conditions compared to regular cosmetics. Using makeup that has been exposed to bacteria, especially when applied close to your eyes, can lead to eye infections such as conjunctivitis (pink eye). Shared makeup, particularly at Halloween parties or events, can further increase the risk of contamination.

Tip: Never share your Halloween makeup. Use only fresh products, and avoid applying makeup with your fingers to minimize the chance of transferring bacteria to your eyes.

3. Clogged Tear Ducts and Dry Eyes

Certain thick, greasy makeup products like cream-based face paints and heavy liners can block your tear ducts, which help keep your eyes lubricated. This can lead to dryness, discomfort, and even inflammation of the tear ducts. Contact lens wearers are particularly susceptible to dryness, as makeup particles can get trapped under the lenses and scratch the eye’s surface.

Tip: If you wear contact lenses, apply your makeup with extra caution. Try using water-based or non-greasy makeup products that are less likely to clog your tear ducts or interfere with your lenses.

4. Corneal Abrasions from Glitter and Loose Pigments

Glitter makeup is a popular choice for adding sparkle to your Halloween look, but it poses a major threat to your eyes. Loose pigments, sequins, or glitter can easily fall into your eyes, causing scratches on the cornea (the transparent layer that covers the front of your eye). Even small particles can create significant irritation, leading to redness, tearing, and discomfort.

Tip: Avoid applying glitter or loose pigments too close to your eyes. If you do use these products, opt for cosmetic-grade glitter, which is less abrasive than craft glitter, and apply with precision.

5. Fake Eyelashes and Eye Glue Hazards

False eyelashes are the ultimate accessory for many Halloween looks, but the adhesive used to apply them can trigger allergic reactions or irritate the delicate eye area. Additionally, poorly applied lashes or low-quality lash glue can accidentally get into your eyes, causing pain or infection.

Tip: Use high-quality lash adhesive and avoid applying glue directly on your eyelids. Always remove false eyelashes carefully, ensuring no glue residue is left behind that could irritate your eyes.

6. Colored Contact Lenses: A Real Horror Story

Nothing completes a Halloween costume like a pair of colored or novelty contact lenses, but they can be far more dangerous than they appear. Non-prescription lenses sold in costume shops or online can cause severe eye infections, corneal ulcers, and even permanent vision loss. These lenses can fit poorly, leading to friction and injury to the eye.

Tip: If you want to wear colored contacts for Halloween, make sure to get a prescription from your eye doctor. Avoid purchasing lenses from non-reputable sources or stores that do not specialize in eye care products.

7. The Risk of Not Removing Makeup Properly

After a long night of Halloween fun, the last thing you may feel like doing is carefully removing your makeup. But leaving costume makeup on overnight, especially around your eyes, can lead to clogged pores, eye irritation, and infections. Mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow can