By Lisa B, Aesthetics Manager

Getting dressed in a costume for Halloween is a highlight of the fall season for many, children and adults alike. With the easy access to video tutorials and the wealth of inspiration out there, costumes have come a long way from the days of the polyester clothes and the plastic mask. It is not unusual to see stage quality makeup artistry on the child at the Trunk or Treat or on the adults at the neighborhood bash (or rather, the Monster Mash!).

For many choosing to dress up for the holiday, the makeup worn for Halloween is not part of a regular routine. For that reason, people of all ages can run into some unexpected issues with skin. The following tips are intended to keep everyone happy and healthy while enjoying the occasion to dress up and try on another persona for Halloween.

Skin Tip 1: Don’t Share Makeup

Makeup that is shared among several people can become cross-contaminated with viruses and bacteria. Eye makeup can be especially tricky. The minimal number of preservatives used in eye products, such as mascara, makes for a short shelf life (think 90 days). This can create a breeding ground for germs and bacteria.

Also, makeup that may be fine for your friend to use can still cause an allergic reaction for you. Sharing is not caring when it comes to Halloween makeup.

Skin Tip 2: Beware the Makeup Brushes

Like makeup, makeup brushes can harbor bacteria. Use clean brushes.

Brush techniques for some can pose a problem. If you are not in the habit of putting product on your eyelashes every day, doing this once-a-year can be intimidating. Be careful to avoid eye injury when applying makeup. If you want to learn more about the rare but possible dangers of mascara brush injury and eyesight loss, you can read more here.

Skin Tip 3: Boo-tiful Skin Starts with Clean Skin

Before you or the kids fall into a candy coma, remove the makeup. Sleeping in makeup, especially the kind of heavy stage makeup used for costumes, can cause issues with pore clogging and irritation. Have a gentle makeup remover on hand for the holiday.

Skin Tip 4: Out with Old Makeup

Pulling out makeup from years past? Skin infections can haunt you! Makeup has an expiration day. For a helpful guide on when to toss makeup products, check out this quick guide from the American Academy of Dermatology.

Skin Tip 5: Don’t Let Your Skin Suffer in Silence

If you or someone you know does wake up with scary skin in the days after Halloween, have a dermatology provider look at it. Even with every precaution, fresh makeup, no sharing, proper application, etc., skin can react to the unfamiliar.

Whether it is an acne flare-up or a red, sensitive rash, there is no need to struggle on your own. If you suspect that the skin reaction you are dealing with is related to Halloween makeup, take a picture of what you used or bring it to your appointment.

Your dermatologist may enjoy a picture of you in your costume too!

Talk with a Dermatology Professional at Vanguard

Vanguard Skin Specialists has offices along the Front Range. From Castle Rock to Canon City, including an office in Pueblo, four offices in Colorado Springs, and an office in Woodland Park.

Dermatology providers are available to address your skin concerns. If you are experiencing a new or changing spot on your skin, please let us know when you call to schedule. Call us at 719-355-1585 or schedule an appointment online today.

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Lisa is the manager of Vanguard Aesthetics and clara. She is passionate about helping patients find the right skincare products and services to fit their unique needs and lifestyles.