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Halloween is an exciting time for kids and teens to wear costumes. However, dressing up can be hazardous for their eyes if they don’t take certain precautions. Here are a few eye care do’s and don’ts for Halloween to keep your kids safe. 

Do:

Keep the eye area clear. 

Since many fictional characters wear masks, your child may want to follow suit. However, masks can block their visual field, making them more likely to sustain an injury if they trip or bump into obstacles. If they fall while running around, the mask might get loose and damage their eyes. Face paint or costume makeup is a safer choice. 

Choose makeup products carefully. 

Costume makeup doesn’t always have the same quality as the kind made for daily wear. Always opt for hypoallergenic products, and test it on your child’s skin before applying it all over the face. Try not to put makeup on or near the eyes, especially if your child is young and prone to rubbing their face. Avoid glitter that might fall into their eyes as well. If your child complains of irritation, remove the makeup promptly.

Don’t:

Give your child sharp props. 

eye careA fake knife or sparkly wand might be the perfect addition to your child’s costume, but it could be a poking hazard for your little one’s eyes. Avoid giving your child sharp plastic, metal, or wood props; opt for foam versions instead. 

Let them wear non-prescription contact lenses. 

Contact lenses should always be prescribed by eye care professionals. While it’s possible to buy decorative contacts online, lenses that don’t fit the eyes properly could cause corneal abrasions. If your child insists on contact lenses for their costume, visit an eye doctor for a prescription. 

 

If you or your kids experience eye issues before, during, or after Halloween, Nelson O. Yoshioka, Jr., OD | Cheryl C. Niitani, OD, are available to help. As eye doctors with your best interests at heart, these specialists help with everything from routine exams and eye irritation to treatment for serious conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration. Explore their eye care services online. Reach their Honolulu office at (808) 734-7050 or their Pearl City location at (808) 455-3333 to schedule an appointment. 

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