Halloween is approaching and, like every year, children want to dress up and put on makeup to go trick-or-treating or attend themed parties. It is important to make sure that the cosmetics they choose are safe for their delicate skin. Dermatologist Chiara Bonatti points out that children’s skin is thinner and more permeable than that of adults, making it more vulnerable to the absorption of chemicals and allergic reactions. In addition, the skin’s natural defenses, such as the hydrolipidic film, are less developed in children, increasing the risk of irritation. Harmful ingredients can cross the skin barrier and negatively affect endocrine development. Using poor-quality or unsuitable products can exacerbate these risks.

However, this does not mean depriving children of the fun. With a few precautions, it is possible to celebrate Halloween safely. It is advisable to choose cosmetics formulated specifically for children, which carry indicative safety labels. Each product must have a detailed list of ingredients, known as INCI (International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients), listed in decreasing order of the quantity present. The absence of harmful ingredients is essential; for example, it is best to avoid cosmetics containing substances such as asbestos, formaldehyde or heavy metals.

It is also important to keep an eye on the ingredients to exclude. Cosmetics can contain harmful substances such as lead, present in some lipsticks and eye shadows, and exposure to this metal can compromise the neurological development of children. Although occasional use may seem less worrying, it is always better to opt for products with natural ingredients and without petrolatum.

Caution should also be paid to natural cosmetics; they are not always risk-free. Some essential oils can cause skin reactions, so it is advisable to perform a sensitivity test before use: apply a small amount to a hidden area of ​​the skin and observe any reactions in the following days.

When applying makeup, it is important to follow good hygiene practices: use clean tools and avoid contact with sensitive areas such as eyes and mouth. Makeup removal should be done with gentle methods to avoid skin irritation.

If any adverse reactions occur, discontinue use immediately and remove with a gentle cleanser. Monitoring symptoms and seeking professional advice if they persist is essential to protecting children’s skin health during the holidays.