Halloween make-up warning for under-threes and fake blood
Halloween make-up for under-threes and fake blood for under-14s: Spain’s consumer group Organización de Consumidores y Usuarios (OCU) advises against both in a warning issued in Madrid, Spain, on 27 October 2026. It says Halloween make-up contains chemicals that are not harmless on skin. For children old enough to wear it, the group advises using only a little and washing it off thoroughly after the event.
Check what goes on the skin
If make-up causes itching or redness, remove it and rinse the skin well with water. The OCU advises avoiding products with fragrances, which can trigger allergies, and any make-up that does not list its ingredients. Packaging should show an ingredients list and either an expiry date or an open-jar symbol stating how long the product lasts.
The group also urges caution with nail varnish because its solvents can be dangerous and children often put their hands in their mouths. It says to take particular care with novelty contact lenses and follow expert advice.
Costumes need checking too
Wash a child’s costume before they wear it, or leave it open to air for at least 48 hours, the OCU advises. Choose material that does not catch fire easily. Wigs, masks with wigs and heavy decorations increase the risk, so children should stay away from fire.
Children’s costumes and other items should carry the CE mark. The OCU says the mark is compulsory for toys but does not guarantee complete safety. Labels must also give the manufacturer’s name and address, the item’s composition and washing instructions; those label requirements apply to adult costumes and clothing too.
Children’s clothing must not have cords around the neck or head that could catch and cause suffocation. For under-threes, check that no small parts can come loose and be swallowed or pushed into the nose. Hoods and masks must not block vision, costumes should not reach below the ankles, and sharp points or edges should be avoided. The OCU recommends rubber rather than metal accessories.
Topics: Health
Source: Europa Press / Mallorca.com