Halloween is one of the few nights a year when many people put heavy makeup, paint, glitter and adhesives on their skin. For most people it goes fine. For others it means an itchy rash, swollen eyes or a wave of breakouts that shows up a day or two later.
A little planning prevents most of these problems. Here is how to protect your skin, and your kids' skin, this Halloween.
Key takeaways
- Choose face paints made for skin, and avoid craft paints, markers and glitter not meant for cosmetic use.
- Patch test new products a few days ahead, especially for kids and people with sensitive skin or eczema.
- Be careful with latex, spirit gum and other adhesives, which are common causes of allergic reactions.
- Remove everything gently the same night, then moisturize.
- Swelling, blistering, a spreading rash or eye problems need medical attention.
Common Halloween skin problems
Irritant reactions
Heavy makeup, glitter and harsh removers can irritate the skin, causing redness, burning and dry patches. This is the most common problem, and it usually settles within a few days.
Allergic contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is an allergic reaction to something that touches the skin. Common Halloween triggers include fragrance, certain dyes and preservatives, latex in masks and prosthetics, and adhesives like spirit gum. The rash is usually itchy and red, and sometimes blistered, and it often appears a day or two after exposure.
Breakouts
Thick, pore-clogging makeup left on overnight can trigger acne, especially along the forehead, jawline and anywhere a mask sat against the skin with sweat.
Eye problems
Glitter, false lashes and decorative contact lenses can scratch or infect the eye. Decorative contacts sold without a prescription are a particular risk.
How to choose safer products
- Use cosmetic-grade face paint. Look for products made for use on skin, with ingredients listed on the label.
- Skip craft supplies. Acrylic paints, markers and craft glitter are not made for skin.
- Choose cosmetic glitter. Craft glitter can have sharp edges that scratch skin and eyes.
- Be cautious with fragrance. Fragrance is a common allergen. Unscented products are often a better choice for sensitive skin.
- Check adhesives. If you have reacted to bandage tape or latex before, avoid latex prosthetics and ask about gentler adhesives.
Patch test a few days ahead
A patch test is simple. Put a small amount of each product on the inside of the forearm or behind the ear and leave it for a day or two. If you notice redness, itching or bumps, do not use it on your face.
This matters most for kids, people with eczema, and anyone who has reacted to makeup before. If you get reactions often and are not sure why, a dermatologist can do formal patch testing to find your specific triggers.
Protect your skin before you paint
- Start with clean, moisturized skin.
- Apply a thin layer of a gentle, fragrance-free moisturizer as a barrier.
- Keep paint away from the eyelids and lips unless the product is made for those areas.
- If you have acne-prone skin, choose lighter products and avoid covering your whole face for hours.
How to remove Halloween makeup gently
Do not go to bed in your costume makeup. Removing it the same night is one of the best ways to prevent breakouts and irritation.
- Use a gentle oil-based cleanser or cleansing balm to loosen paint and glitter.
- Wipe gently with soft cotton pads. Do not scrub.
- For adhesives, use the remover made for that product instead of pulling.
- Follow with a mild cleanser, rinse with lukewarm water and pat dry.
- Apply a plain, fragrance-free moisturizer.
Skip exfoliating scrubs, retinoids and acids for a night or two if your skin feels irritated.
What to do if you have a reaction
For mild redness or itching, stop using the product, wash the area gently, apply a cool compress and a bland moisturizer, and give it a few days. Over-the-counter hydrocortisone can help for a short time on the body, but use it carefully on the face.
Get medical care if you notice:
- Swelling of the face, lips or eyes
- Blisters, oozing or crusting
- A rash that is spreading or not improving after a few days
- Eye pain, redness or vision changes, especially after decorative contacts
- Trouble breathing, which needs emergency care right away
Tips for kids and sensitive skin
Children's skin is thinner and reacts more easily, and kids with eczema are especially likely to get irritated. A few simple choices help:
- Paint a small design on one cheek instead of the whole face.
- Use a costume hat, headband or mask made of soft fabric instead of latex.
- Choose costumes made of breathable fabric, and avoid scratchy seams against the neck.
- Moisturize before and after, and keep your child's usual eczema cream on hand.
- Keep glitter away from the eyes, and skip loose glitter for young children.
If your child has had a reaction to makeup, bandages or a costume before, try a costume that does not need face paint at all.
Masks, costumes and your skin
It is not only makeup. Costume masks trap heat and sweat against the skin for hours, which can cause breakouts, chafing and heat rash. Cheap fabrics and dyes can irritate the neck, wrists and underarms. Metal accessories, such as costume jewelry and belt buckles, can trigger a nickel allergy. If a costume feels hot or itchy, take breaks, loosen it or change out of it early.
Frequently asked questions
Is face paint safe for kids?
Cosmetic face paint made for skin is generally safe, but kids have more sensitive skin. Patch test first and remove it gently at the end of the night.
Why did my rash appear two days after Halloween?
Allergic contact dermatitis often appears 24 to 72 hours after exposure. That delay is one reason it is hard to know which product caused it.
Can Halloween makeup cause acne?
Yes. Heavy makeup, sweat and masks can clog pores. Remove makeup the same night and avoid sleeping in it.
What is the safest way to remove spirit gum?
Use the remover made for spirit gum or a gentle oil, hold it on the edge for a minute, and lift slowly. Do not peel the adhesive off dry skin, which can tear the surface and cause irritation.
Are decorative contact lenses safe?
Only when prescribed and fitted by an eye care professional. Non-prescription decorative lenses can cause serious eye injury.
When to see a dermatologist
If you have a rash that will not clear, reactions every time you wear makeup, or breakouts that keep coming back, we can help. We see patients in Palm Beach Gardens, Downtown Brooklyn, the Upper East Side, Greenvale, Chicago and Boulder. Learn more about rashes we treat, or book a visit online.