Halloween is here and you might be going to some costume parties.  Even if you’re going as something as simple as the um, ahem, “sexy” vampire, elaborate makeup will likely play a role in your costume.

Some of us have sensitive skin, and some of us don’t, but with costume makeup, it’s best to be super careful in any case – especially with your kids.  Before you put your makeup and your costume on, take heed, you could be asking for a rash or infection!
Here are some simple things to avoid having this put a damper on your Halloween:

• Always do a test patch, even if you think you do not have any allergies.  Some makeup and adhesives contain chemicals you may not have come into contact before.  This can cause a reaction as simple as redness or far worse: a scabby patch of contact dermatitis or even a chemical burn.
• Latex is a common allergy!  Be careful when using masks as part of your Halloween costume.  Let your skin breathe a bit by removing the mask if you can.  Remember that even the simplest masks that slip on over your head will require you to wash your face after.  Latex in slip on masks, glue on masks, or certain Halloween makeup should also always be tested first!
• Be careful when applying makeup if you have a scab, open cut, or a blemish.  You can cause an infection with certain makeup if it gets into any open area.
• You may need to glue on those fake eyebrows, but be sure it will come off easily without removing hair or skin!
• Remember to be careful around your eyes!  Even if a Halloween makeup claims it is safe for your whole face, it may be very dangerous if you get it in your eyes.  You might want to try using your regular makeup if you can (say if you’re going as a cat or a sexy vampire?  That black eyeliner you already have will be useful!
• Avoid SHARING your makeup.  Most of us know this is a no-no anyway – but on Halloween you may figure you’re just using it once so it will be okay.  Not true!  You can get an eye or fungal skin infection even from someone who doesn’t appear to have either.
• Now, the hardest part of taking care of your skin might to be remember not to overdo it with alcohol and junk food!  Remember to stay hydrated!  Salty foods and alcohol and dry out your skin, so celebrate, but drink some water throughout.
• REMOVE your makeup.  You may be ready to pass out, but removing your makeup and letting your skin breathe is essential to preventing post-Halloween breakouts!  Use a gentle makeup remover that is intended for your whole face (or wherever you have makeup) and that is safe for use around your eyes.  In many cases face and eye makeup removers have different components, so keep that in mind.

Have a Happy Halloween!