Halloween is an exciting time of the year, filled with spooky costumes, pumpkin carving and trick-or-treating. But amidst all the fun, it's important to remember the importance of eye safety. With so many potential hazards during Halloween festivities, it's crucial to take extra precautions to protect your eyes.
AtEverett & Hurite, we care about your eye health and want to ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable Halloween. Here are 5 essential eye safety tips to keep in mind during this spooky season.
1. Do Not Wear Over-The-Counter Cosmetic Contact Lenses
The American Academy of Ophthalmology strongly recommends against wearing over-the-counter decorative contact lenses. A recent study found that several varieties of non-prescription contact lenses tested positive for chlorine, metal, and other harmful chemicals. It is illegal to sell contact lenses without a valid prescription, as they have not been approved by the FDA for safety and effectiveness. Despite this, they are still sold online and in many beauty stores this time of year.
These non-prescribed, decorative contact lenses have been known to cause blindness, corneal infection, conjunctivitis, decreased vision, and pain. If you are going to purchase cosmetic lenses for your Halloween costume, buy them from retailers that require a prescription and only sell FDA-approved lenses. You can obtain a valid prescription and an eye exam from a certified ophthalmologist.
2. Avoid Eye Glitter
Costume makeup, including glitter, is generally not formulated for the eye. Metallic, glitter, and sparkle powder can get into the tear film and cause corneal infection, especially for contact lens wearers. Only use cosmetics that are designed for use around the eyes, and don’t apply products containing untested or harsh chemicals.
3. Use Caution With Toy Weapons
Pretend swords, knives, and any other objects with pointed edges should always be made of a soft foam or foam-like material. This is especially important for children who have difficulty controlling long objects and will be running around with them in the dark. Ensuring that any props are soft and flexible helps minimize the risk of eye injuries to yourself and other children.
4. Use Hypoallergenic Makeup
Makeup in the eye can cause infection and injury, so be sure that any makeup you apply to yourself or on your child’s face is hypoallergenic, and always steer clear of the lash line. Thoroughly remove the makeup at the end of the night with either soap and water or cold cream.
5. Skip The Glow Sticks
The liquid contents inside glow sticks can cause serious eye pain and infection and can also irritate the skin if it is splashed or spilled. Opt for flashlights if you’re going to be outside after sunset, as they provide much better illumination and do not pose an ocular threat.
Protect Your Eyes This Halloween With Everett & Hurite
Halloween can be a fun and exciting time for people of all ages. However, it's important to prioritize eye safety when participating in festivities. By following these 5 Halloween eye safety tips, you can ensure that your Halloween is filled with spooky enjoyment without any accidents or injuries. Remember, it only takes a few extra precautions to protect your eyes and prevent any potential long-term damage
The eye specialists at Everett & Hurite are committed to providing high-quality eye care to patients of all ages. Our pediatric ophthalmologists are equipped to help children with any and all eye care needs. We have 10 offices conveniently located in Western Pennsylvania. Request an appointment with one of the physicians or call 412-288-0858.
Frequently Asked Questions
My child wants to dress up as a pirate with an eye patch. Is that safe for their eyes?
Yes, but only if the eye patch is worn correctly. The patch should not be too tight and should allow air to circulate. Also, make sure your child switches the patch between each eye so they do not develop lazy eye or amblyopia.
Can Halloween costumes cause eye infections?
Yes, some costumes and accessories can contain harmful chemicals or irritants that can lead to eye infections. It's important to use caution and follow safe eye practices while wearing costumes.
Do I need to visit an eye doctor if I experience discomfort after wearing a costume?
If you experience any discomfort, redness, or irritation in your eyes after wearing a costume, it's important to visit an eye doctor for a check-up. They can determine if there is any damage or infection and provide proper treatment.
How can I avoid costumes that may harm my eyes?
Avoid purchasing or wearing any costumes or accessories that could block vision and are not specifically designed for use around the eye area. Be cautious of non-prescription cosmetic contact lenses and glitter makeup, as they can contain harmful chemicals and irritants. Stick to hypoallergenic and FDA-approved products.
