Halloween makeup can contain harmful ingredients that can be toxic to the skin and body. Some of the ingredients to avoid include parabens, talc, lead, cadmium, chromium, and ethylbenzene. Here are some positive and negative aspects of Halloween makeup:
Positive:
- Non-toxic alternatives are easy to come by these days when it comes to makeup and skincare, especially now that the clean beauty industry has taken off.
- There are now plenty of non-toxic Halloween makeup manufacturers out there catering to families and children.
Negative:
- Most common face paints (even the ones used on kids), contain harmful ingredients like parabens and talc. Reports have even found dangerous chemicals like lead and cadmium specifically in children’s makeup and face paint.
- Even small exposures to these toxins are dangerous. Lead affects brain development, asbestos is a carcinogen, and cadmium is an endocrine disruptor linked to certain cancers and other health problems.
- Makeup and cosmetics are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, but the agency has very little power to regulate the safety of cosmetic ingredients. The agency surveys products that are already on the market but doesn’t approve their safety before.
When shopping for Halloween makeup, it is important to check the ingredients beforehand and avoid products with harmful chemicals. Some non-toxic alternatives include Natural Earth Paint, Elegant Minerals, and Klee Naturals. It is also recommended to test the products on a small patch of skin before applying them to the face, especially for those with sensitive skin. Additionally, it is best to avoid sharing makeup products or applicators with friends to prevent the spread of infections.