When you think of celebrating Halloween, you probably don’t think about children and skin irritations.
However, this holiday can bring skin problems depending on what products you use and how sensitive your child’s skin is.
Below we discuss the different causes of skin irritations during Halloween and give you some tips on how to avoid them. You can keep skin healthy and problem-free this Halloween and all season long!
Children’s and Halloween costumes: prevent skin irritations
Costumes can be made from different materials. If your child has sensitive skin or allergies, some of these can lead to skin irritations.
Synthetic materials can retain heat and moisture, which can lead to redness, itching and sometimes a rash, especially if worn for long periods of time. Be careful with polyester, nylon, acrylic, spandex, rayon and vinyl.
Some costumes can cause allergic reactions, especially those with latex gloves or masks. Wigs can cause scalp irritation and itching, while hats can worsen existing conditions. Masks can also lead to vision problems, headaches, acne or a skin infection, especially if they don’t fit properly. Labels and seams that rub against the skin can also cause some discomfort.
Borrowed costumes or clothing from second-hand clothing stores may still contain bacteria. These can also be a source of irritation, itching or even infections.
What to do
Choose costumes carefully. Look for natural fibers such as cotton, which are less likely to irritate sensitive skin. Watch out for your child’s allergies and avoid triggering substances. You can also remove irritating labels or seams and add comfortable undergarments to prevent chafing and redness.
If you are using a borrowed or used costume, wash it carefully before using it. Let your child try on a mask for a few minutes before purchasing it to ensure it fits properly and does not rub against the skin. Always have your children wash their faces after Halloween is over.
If your child experiences an allergic reaction, rash, redness, or irritation from a costume, spray Rescue + Relief Spray for immediate relief from the itchy, rash-like condition. Then apply soothing Calming Moisture or Body Repair Lotion to soothe the skin.
Children’s and Halloween costumes: make-up, face paint and tattoos
Halloween makeup, face paint and tattoos can create fun or spooky looks, but they can also cause skin problems.
Many contain allergens such as fragrances, preservatives or certain dyes that can cause allergic reactions. Heavy makeup can clog pores, leading to breakouts and irritation, especially in children with sensitive skin.
Some paints are also difficult to remove, which can lead to long-term exposure to potentially irritating and toxic ingredients. Even temporary tattoos can contain allergens that can irritate the skin, especially if applied to sensitive areas.
What to do
Be careful. Choose hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic makeup options designed for sensitive skin. Avoid products imported from other countries as they do not have the same strict safety standards as in the US
Research the brands you buy and look for brands that market their products as safe for children with sensitive skin. Choose brands labeled as non-toxic. Read reviews to see what others have to say about it. Avoid long-lasting tattoos and opt for easy-to-remove options.
Before applying any of it, do a patch test on a small area of your child’s skin. Wait 24 hours to see if irritation develops.
Choosing skin-friendly Halloween makeup helps reduce the risk, but that may not always be possible. We recommend that you properly prep your skin to protect pores from clogging and from absorbing the toxins in heavy makeup, while helping to prevent further irritation and breakouts.
Protect the skin with a layer of Restorative Skin Balm, which will create a protective barrier. You can also apply our non-comedogenic Calming Moisture, which can act as a primer to keep toxic ingredients out.
Once Halloween is over, it’s important to thoroughly remove all makeup to avoid clogged pores, breakouts and irritation. Use gentle makeup removers and then follow up with a soothing moisturizer like our Calming Moisture to help prevent irritation, tame potential inflammation, restore moisture and soothe the skin. It contains moisturizing and healing ingredients such as glycerin, aloe vera and antioxidants that help restore skin health and radiance.
Children and Halloween: food
Halloween is notorious for its sweet treats, but some sweets can increase the risk of skin irritations such as inflammation, rosacea, eczema and other breakouts.
If your child has allergies, check all treats for triggers before letting them eat. Many contain common allergens such as peanuts, tree nuts, dairy and gluten.
Many candies also contain artificial colors and preservatives that can cause reactions in some people. For example, Yellow 5 or Red 40 are known to cause hives in sensitive children.
What to do
Always read labels for allergens, especially if your child has any food allergies. If possible, look for allergy-friendly treats. It’s also best to help your children moderate their intake, as that alone can help reduce the risk of negative reactions.
If your child has severe allergies, consider making homemade treats so you know exactly what ingredients are used.
As your children get older, teach them about allergies and help them understand the importance of avoiding certain foods or products. Educating them about their specific triggers can help them make safer choices.
It is also helpful to review the symptoms of an allergic reaction so that your child can alert you immediately if he/she experiences them.
Try to moderate your sugar intake to prevent pimples and inflammation. Balance the balance with drinking water to flush out sugar and toxins and encourage antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables. If your child experiences a skin flare-up, we recommend our Calming Moisture and Body Repair Lotion to help reduce inflammation and keep skin clear and healthy.
Children’s and Halloween costumes: the weather
Cold weather, wind and dry air can cause skin dryness and irritation, while trick-or-treating outdoors can also expose sensitive children to pollen and mold. If it rains and your child’s clothes get wet, this can lead to chafing and irritation. Even in the fall, ultraviolet rays from the sun can also cause skin damage.
What to do
Apply a rich moisturizer to your child’s skin before he or she goes outside. We recommend our Calming Moisture and Body Repair Lotion. It will help the skin to better resist weather-related irritations. Don’t forget the lips! They can split easily. Use our Repairing Skin Balm. It helps prevent cracked, dry lips all season long.
Then apply sunscreen to all exposed areas of the skin. Have your child dress appropriately and use moisture-wicking fabrics under the costume to keep the skin dry.
Children and skin irritations during Halloween: aftercare
After Halloween is over, carefully go through your child’s treats to make sure they are all safe, and moderate your intake. Let them take off everything and wash thoroughly; a shower or bath is best. Then help them apply moisturizer to help their skin recover. Wash and put away the costumes. Next, watch your child’s skin for signs of redness or irritation.
If you see any, first use our Rescue + Relief Spray to immediately reduce inflammation and itching, then apply our Restorative Skin Balm to help repair and soothe, replenish moisture and keep skin healthy. Apply a bandage or gauze if necessary.
This is to avoid skin scares this Halloween and throughout the season!
Do your children suffer from skin irritations during Halloween?
Featured image by Kevin Bidwell via Pexels.
