Parents Warned To Be Careful With Halloween Face Paint

Spartanburg, SC—As a demonstrational video shows, face paint is a fun way to transform any Halloween costume…into the cat’s meow. But, it also comes with some dangers that a lot of parents aren’t aware of…

Julie Burkhart, daughter is using face paint: “I hadn’t had any concerns. I didn’t know there was any problems.“

Unlike food, and drugs, face paint and other cosmetics are not regulated by the FDA, though it does regulate the colors. Most have preservatives, but sometimes bacteria and mold make facepaint their breeding ground.

Dermatologist Dr. Elizabeth Dunlavey tells us what to keep an eye out for.

Dr. Elizabeth Dunlavey, dermatologist: “That it’s from a reputable dealer, that you’re getting it from somewhere where it says face paint for the skin, and that it does not have a foul odor, or is discolored different from what’s advertized.“

In fact, earlier this year, the “Fun Express” face paint from china was recalled after dozens of members of a Girl Scout troop got a rash from the product.

Dr. Dunlavey also suggests always using fresh face paint…not last year’s.

Diane Lee, reporting: “We’re certainly not discouraging trick-or-treaters from using face paint, altogether. In fact, safety experts still prefer this (face paint) over this (mask), because a mask can obstruct a child’s view and possibly lead to an accident”

But, parents would be wise to check the labels for the words “non-toxic”, especially for young kids.

We found natasha norwood doing just that Wednesday.

Natasha Norwood, mother shopping for face paint: “I think ingredients are important and, of course, if it doesn’t say that it’s non-toxic, I wouldn’t use it.“

And, if your child develops a rash after using a product, be sure to alert the FDA.

The FDA says to be safe…you should try a dab of the paint on an arm, a few days before, to test for allergic reactions.