October is a great time of the year with the fall colors and weather, punctuated by Halloween at the month’s end. Excitement about Halloween costumes and trick-or -treating can often overshadow considerations for keeping your eyes safe and healthy. Here are a few tips to keep in mind for you and your family as you enjoy the season.
Beware of colored contact lenses 👁️
Colored or decorative contact lenses can be harmful if not prescribed, fitted and dispensed by an eye care professional. Wearing colored or decorative contact lenses might make your doctor give you the evil eye, plus they can be uncomfortable. They can also result in an eye infection by causing tiny scratches, known as microabrasions, on the surface of the eye. Never share contact lenses, and always practice proper hygiene when handling and caring for contact lenses. Don’t get caught with a scary eye infection caused by unauthorized or improperly worn contact lenses!
Beware of your costume 🧙♀️
If your costume includes carrying a sharp object, such as a pitchfork or a pretend weapon, keep it away from your face as well as those around you to avoid injury. Also, be careful when wearing eye and face masks that could limit your field of vision and/or cause harm by poking or scratching you.
Beware of costume makeup 💄
It can be a lot of fun to paint your eyes and face with dramatic makeup for a Halloween costume. However, make sure you don't share makeup and throw away expired makeup to avoid bacteria that can cause eye infections. Be careful when using makeup products containing glitter, as it can get onto the surface of your eyes and cause irritation, microabrasions, and eye infections. Finally, use caution with false eyelashes and lash extensions, as they can also cause eye irritation and infection if used improperly. Always be sure to completely remove makeup at the end of the day, but be gentle cleaning around your eyes.
Beware of decorations 🎃
Wear safety eye goggles when putting up Halloween decorations that shoot smoke, liquid or other substances, or if you are using tools such as a hammer that could cause objects to fly uncontrollably. Be careful with anything sharp you use to carve a pumpkin.
Eye safety first, and costumes, candy and decorations, second! In summary, these Halloween safety tips will help you and your family enjoy the season responsibly by keeping your eyes and vision safe and healthy.
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This information in this post is for general educational purposes only and does not warrant or represent any information as related to health as specifically appropriate for you. It is not intended to be medical advice or replace the relationship that you have with your health care providers. You should always seek medical advice on any diagnosis or treatment from a qualified health care provider. The information is provided “as is” without any representations or warranties, express or implied.
