As we approach Halloween, it's important to remember the health and safety of our eyes. Though often overlooked in the midst of all the excitement, taking care to protect our eyes from makeup, costumes, and even decorations is absolutely necessary.
At Conestoga Eye, our team is dedicated to helping you keep your vision clear and healthy no matter the time of year. Here is everything you need to know to keep your eyes safe this Halloween season:
Common Eye Hazards During Halloween
While Halloween is a time for fun and creativity, the holiday's festivities can also potentially introduce hazards that can lead to eye injuries or infections. Some common eyesight risks include:
Halloween Makeup
Halloween is synonymous with elaborate makeup. However, makeup products like generic face paint can potentially cause skin irritation, infections, and allergic reactions. To avoid this, always use makeup products that are safe for the eyes and labeled as non-toxic and hypoallergenic. Additionally, avoid applying makeup too close to the eye, as this can result in particles getting into the eye and causing irritation. Remember, acrylic paint is not the same as an eye shadow palette.
Decorative Contact Lenses
Decorative or costume contact lenses have become a popular Halloween accessory, allowing wearers to change the color of their eyes to match their costumes. Know that if these lenses are not properly fitted, cleaned, or cared for, they can cause serious eye problems, including infections, corneal abrasions, and in severe cases, permanent vision loss.
It's crucial to remember that contact lenses are not one-size-fits-all and should always be prescribed by a licensed eye care professional. Most of the time, your optometrist can provide you with medical-grade costume contacts if you have an active contact lens prescription. This is the best way to make sure you are getting something of better quality across the board.
Masks
Costumes that include masks can be a potential hazard, especially if the mask obstructs your peripheral vision. With limited visibility, there is an increased risk of trips, falls, or accidental collisions, potentially leading to eye injuries. Additionally, masks made from hard or sharp materials can cause injury if they accidentally hit the eye. Ensure all masks fit properly, do not limit your field of view, and are made from flexible and soft materials to minimize any potential risk.
Other Costume Accessories
Many Halloween costumes come complete with accessories, such as swords, wands, or masks. These items, especially in the hands of children, can lead to accidental eye injuries and should be used with caution. If you or your child plans to use a costume accessory while trick-or-treating or at a party, make sure it is made of soft materials that cannot scrape or scratch the eyes.
Tips for Safeguarding Your Eyes
Here are a few practical eye safety tips for the Halloween season:
- Use only FDA-approved makeup: Always opt for high-quality, FDA-approved makeup and face paint. They are generally less likely to cause irritation or infections. Always test the makeup on a small area of the skin before applying it near your eyes.
- Avoid sharing makeup: Even if the makeup is safe for use, sharing it can spread germs and lead to eye infections. Always use your own makeup and brushes.
- Remove makeup carefully: Use a gentle makeup remover and take care not to scratch or pull on your eyes as this can cause irritation or injury.
- Consult an eye care professional for decorative lenses: If you plan on wearing decorative contact lenses, talk to an expert, first. The team at Conestoga Eye can help you select lenses that are right for your eyes, prescribe the correct fit, and teach you how to avoid potential eye problems.
- Choose costumes wisely: Select costumes that do not limit your field of view and avoid masks that restrict peripheral vision. When selecting accessories, choose items made of soft, flexible materials.
- Know when to seek a doctor: If you or your child experiences an eye injury while celebrating Halloween, seek immediate medical attention. Give your eye doctor at Conestoga Eye a call or head to a nearby urgent care center.
Take Care of Your Eyes this Halloween
Amidst the fun and festivities of Halloween, it is important that you prioritize the safety of your eyes. Though costumes and makeup add to the festive spirit, they also carry potential risks to your eye health.
At Conestoga Eye, we are committed to the health of your eyes. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing comprehensive eye care and educating our patients about the importance of their eye health, especially via routine eye exams.
This Halloween season, let's put eye safety at the forefront of our celebrations. If you're due for an eye exam or have a concern about your eye health, contact us for an appointment today.
From routine visits to medical eye care, the team at Conestoga Eye is ready to assist you with all your vision needs. Schedule an appointment online with us today to start your journey toward better vision.
