Adnkronos (Adnkronos) – Halloween can be spooky fun for fans of the dark genre of all ages. But the wrong approach to makeup can lead to scary problems, especially for the eyes. Doctors and experts are warning, particularly in the US, where the holiday is particularly popular, and urging fans of the holiday not to underestimate the risks of improvised disguises.
Non-compliant colored contact lenses, cosmetics with untested ingredients: dangers can lurk even in the most unsuspecting accessory.
The first warning concerns makeup. Among those offering a guide to "ensure a spooky, yet safe, Halloween" is optometrist Meng Meng Xu of the Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Medicine, in an online focus on the holiday preceding All Saints' Day.
The expert warns: it's essential to take proper precautions when using cosmetics near the eyes. Products should be chosen carefully, she advises, and it's important to keep in mind that some ingredients, such as fragrances, preservatives (including parabens and benzalkonium chloride), metallic pigments, and colorants, could irritate the skin or eyes. "Performing a patch test on a small area of skin before applying to a larger area can help identify any allergies or reactions," the focus suggests.
Another tip: avoid applying products within the lash line. "It has been shown to increase irritation and dryness of the ocular surface," explain the authors of the study. Glitter should be avoided, the expert from the US institute recommends. The plastic particles and dyes contained in cosmetic products "are not toxic," she adds. "However, if applied near the eyelids, there is a risk that they can transfer to the eye and scratch the ocular surface." Craft glitter, which may contain metal or glass particles and harmful dyes, "should never be used" for cosmetic purposes. "Patients sometimes present with allergic reactions, corneal scratches, and eyelid infections after using glitter-based false eyelashes and costume makeup," says Xu. "The eyelids and ocular surface are more prone to irritation than skin on other parts of the body."
Danger lurks even where you wouldn't expect it: while a witch's wand or a pirate's sword can complete the perfect Halloween look, these sometimes long and pointed accessories can pose a danger to the eyes, both in crowded places like parties and in dark, dimly lit areas. It's therefore best to opt for short, flexible accessories, preferably made of a soft material like foam rubber. Then there's the issue of masks: before going out trick-or-treating, it's a good idea to make sure hoods and masks don't obstruct your vision, especially if you're going to dimly lit places. "When one eye is covered, the loss of depth perception can increase the risk of injury, so it's safest to wear blindfolds only when taking photos or standing still," suggests Xu.
A growing trend is completing the look with colored contact lenses, which can change the color of the eyes or the appearance of the pupils, making vampire, witch, monster, and supernatural creature costumes even more realistic. However, experts warn: although these costume lenses do not impair vision, they are generally devices that require a prescription from an eye doctor. Ill-fitting or improperly cleaned contact lenses can cause eye or vision damage.
These lenses can impede air circulation, promote the accumulation of bacteria or deposits, while friction caused by the lens material can cause eye problems such as cuts and scratches to the cornea, corneal ulcers, and eye infections. A warning on this issue has also been issued by the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). Wearing cosmetic, decorative, or costume lenses "may seem harmless," specialists warn, "but beware: colored contact lenses can seriously damage the eyes" if improperly fitted and used without medical supervision. "They can even cause permanent blindness." These are dangers that should not be underestimated, experts warn. "I have seen too many serious cases, in both children and adults, caused by the use of decorative contact lenses," says Thomas Steinemann, an ophthalmologist at MetroHealth Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio, and a member of the AAO. While there are no comprehensive studies on the number of eye injuries caused by colored contact lenses, American ophthalmologists report diagnosing and treating related eye injuries every year.
The AAO's focus cites an anonymous survey of 400 Texas-based adolescents: approximately 1 in 7 has used cosmetic contact lenses. The survey found that contact lenses are more popular among girls, and that most teens reported engaging in unsafe and unhygienic behaviors, such as storing and cleaning them in water. Eye infections are among the most common problems caused by decorative contact lenses. In this regard, an FDA analysis of 300 illegally sold lenses found bacteria in approximately 60%. Reinforcing the message, the AAO portal also features firsthand accounts from those who have reported harm. Like Laura, from Parkersburg, West Virginia, who described experiencing "excruciating pain" in both eyes "just 10 hours after first wearing a pair of colored contact lenses purchased from a souvenir shop." "They stuck to my eye like a suction cup," leaving a scar.
"Previous dry eye problems or allergies may increase the risk of eye irritation or complications from contact lens use," Xu explains in the focus article on the Johns Hopkins Medicine website. "In severe cases, corneal ulcers and scarring caused by contact lens use can permanently reduce vision or require complex corrective treatments." Therefore, it's recommended to consult an eye doctor if you want to use contact lenses for Halloween to ensure they're safe to wear. Products should be purchased only from authorized retailers, avoiding deals found on unregistered websites or stores, such as flea markets, Halloween retailers, or gas stations. Further tips for proper contact lens use include: never share contact lenses with others, clean them with a contact lens solution, never with tap water, and always remove them before bed. If you experience redness, irritation, or decreased vision after use, it's important to discontinue use immediately and contact your eye doctor for advice, the focus article concludes.
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