Top 5 Ways to Take Care of Your Eyes This Halloween

Halloween is all about bold costumes, dramatic makeup, and eye-catching looks—but before you dive into those fake lashes, face paints, and special-effect contacts, take a minute to protect your real showstoppers: your eyes. Whether you’re going for spooky, glamorous, or downright gory, these five simple tips will help keep your eyes healthy long after the candy’s gone.

1. Choose Eye Makeup and Face Paints Wisely

Not all Halloween makeup is created equal. Many inexpensive face paints and glittery shadows can contain harsh ingredients that irritate your eyes.

  • Look for products labeled “ophthalmologist-tested” or “safe for use around eyes.”

  • Avoid craft glitters—opt for cosmetic-grade instead.

  • Never share makeup with friends (yes, even just for one night).

Your eyes are important and sensitive. A fun costume isn’t worth a trip to urgent care.

2. Clean Your Brushes and Tools

If you’re using old makeup brushes or applicators, give them a good clean before the big night. Dirty tools can harbor bacteria that lead to eye infections like conjunctivitis. Wash brushes with mild soap and warm water, let them dry completely, and you’re good to go.

3. Be Careful with Contact Lenses

Those coloured or costume contacts can complete your Halloween look—but only if they’re used safely, It is tempting to buy lenses just for fun but it really is not worth the damage they can cause.

  • Always get lenses prescribed and fitted by an eye care professional.

  • Never buy lenses from costume shops, online marketplaces, or street vendors.

  • Wash your hands before inserting or removing contact lenses, and never sleep in them.

  • Make sure your lenses fit properly. Improperly fitted lenses can cause scratches, infections, or even vision loss—definitely not the kind of scary you want.

4. Remove Makeup Thoroughly (But Gently)

After the party, resist the urge to crash in your makeup.

  • Use a gentle makeup remover or micellar water to dissolve products.

  • Avoid rubbing or tugging at your lashes and eyelids. Use an oil cleanser to remove stubborn mascara and or liners.

  • Rinse your eyes with clean water if you feel any irritation.

  • Do not sleep in your makeup! Going to bed with heavy makeup can block glands, cause redness, or even lead to eyelid inflammation.

5. Give Your Eyes a Break the Next Day

After all the makeup, lights, and late-night festivities, your eyes deserve a little TLC. A little recovery time helps your eyes bounce back and stay bright for the next celebration.

  • Skip heavy makeup the next morning.

  • Apply a cool compress if your eyes feel tired or puffy.

  • Use lubricating eye drops if you’re feeling dry or irritated.

Halloween makeup and contacts can be fun additions to your costume—but only when used safely. Treat your eyes with care, choose quality products, and clean up properly.

Jenna Offerdahl