Halloween is a time for fun costumes, spooky decorations, and trick-or-treating. Unfortunately, if you’re not careful, it can also be a time when eye injuries and vision risks increase. Whether you’re dressing up for a party or heading out for a night of trick-or-treating, keeping your eyes safe is important. From costume contact lenses to sharp accessories, several hidden dangers could affect your eye health during Halloween.
Below, our North Edmonton eye care team discusses common risks and how best to enjoy Halloween while keeping your eyes safe and your vision clear.
Common Halloween Eye Safety Risks
Halloween festivities can pose several potential risks to your eyes. These include:
Decorative Contact Lenses
Decorative or “costume” contact lenses are a popular accessory for transforming your Halloween look. Whether you’re going for a zombie, vampire, or cat-eye look, these lenses can be an exciting way to complete your costume. However, buying contact lenses without a prescription can lead to serious eye health risks. Non-prescription lenses can cause:
- Infections: Poor-quality lenses or improper handling can introduce bacteria into your eyes, leading to painful eye infections that require medical treatment.
- Corneal damage: Ill-fitting lenses can scratch the surface of your eye (cornea), leading to abrasions or even ulcers.
- Vision loss: In severe cases, untreated infections or corneal damage from costume lenses can result in permanent vision loss.
Ensure that an eye care professional prescribes your decorative lenses and that you obtain them from a reputable source. Never purchase costume contact lenses from beauty stores, costume shops, or online retailers without a prescription.
Makeup and Face Paint
Costume makeup and face paint can also pose risks to your eye health. Glitter, heavy eyeshadows, or face paints can:
- Irritate your eyes: Makeup particles or face paint can accidentally get into your eyes, causing irritation, redness, and discomfort.
- Cause allergic reactions: Certain chemicals or dyes in costume makeup can cause allergic reactions, particularly around the sensitive eye area.
- Scratch your cornea: Glitter is particularly risky since its small, sharp particles can scratch the surface of your eye if they accidentally fall into your eyes.
Always use hypoallergenic, FDA-approved makeup products and be cautious when applying them near your eyes. Avoid applying glitter close to your eyelids, and wash your hands thoroughly before touching your face or eyes. Also, remember to remove all makeup thoroughly before bed to prevent any particles from causing discomfort or infection.
Another tip: Never share makeup. Sharing makeup with friends or family while preparing for Halloween might seem convenient, but it can spread bacteria and increase the risk of eye infections. Use your own makeup and brushes to minimize the risk of contamination.
Sharp Costume Accessories
Halloween costumes often include props like swords, wands, or staffs. While these accessories may complete your look, they can also be dangerous, especially in dimly lit environments like trick-or-treating areas or parties. If not handled carefully, sharp or pointed objects can easily poke or scratch your eyes. Be mindful of handling these props, especially in close quarters with others, to avoid accidental eye injuries.
If your costume requires accessories, choose soft, flexible options that won’t cause injury if they come into contact with your face or eyes.
Ensuring Clear Vision in Low Light
Poor visibility while trick-or-treating can also put your eye safety at risk. Use flashlights or glow sticks to improve visibility and prevent trips and falls. If your child is wearing a mask, make sure it doesn’t obstruct their vision, as this can make it harder for them to navigate safely.
How Our Eye Care Team Can Help
If you experience any discomfort, redness, or eye injury during Halloween, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. An untreated eye injury can lead to infection or permanent vision damage. Village Eye Centre is here to help if you need a comprehensive eye exam or treatment for any eye-related issues.
Enjoy Halloween safely by following these tips and protecting your vision. With a little extra caution, you can fully embrace the spooky season without compromising your eye health.