In the costume departments, palettes of fake blood and scar kits are stocked up as Halloween approaches. Behind this playful decor, some Halloween makeup and accessories hide substances capable of attacking the skin, eyes or even the nervous system, particularly among young people.
On October 29, 2026, Franceinfo recalled that these products, often applied in large quantities for a single evening, can cause allergies, irritations or infections, or even enter the body via the mucous membranes. An investigation by Avicenn, at the end of 2025, for example, found in 10 glittering cosmetic products a very large quantity of titanium dioxide nanoparticles, although they are banned in cosmetics, to the point that the Ministry of Health contacted ANSES.
Makeup, glitter and fancy lenses: when Halloween touches the mucous membranes
Party makeup is often spread all over the face, lips and eye area, areas where the skin is thin and permeable. In children, this prolonged contact can cause redness, itching or burning, not to mention the risk of ingestion when the product is applied to the mouth or the child rubs their eyes.
explains Doctor Stéphane Pirnay, expert toxicologist and president of the Expertox company, interviewed by Franceinfo. If redness or irritation occurs, he recommends immediately removing makeup with water and stopping using it; If symptoms worsen, medical consultation is necessary. Same warning for fancy lenses: inserted without professional advice or hygiene rules (well-washed and dried hands), they can damage the ocular mucosa and sometimes trigger serious infections.
Costumes and accessories: chemical risks, heavy metals and accidents
The costumes themselves are not neutral: certain materials, dyes or glues can trigger contact allergies, especially when the costume is worn next to the skin for several hours. Concerning accessories, warns Stéphane Pirnay, resulting in risks of ingestion for accessories worn near the nose.
Glitter and sparkling products are the focus of concern: Avicenn found in the 10 products tested a very large quantity of titanium dioxide nanoparticles, described as “extremely dangerous to health” molecules by the association. Toddlers are particularly exposed, because they easily put masks, plastic rings or small elements of the costume in their mouths; the 0‑3 year ban marking is therefore not a packaging detail but a real danger signal.
How to Choose Safer Halloween Products for Kids
To limit the risks, the toxicologist insists on the importance of origin and certification: he advises favoring certified, approved objects, respecting French and European standards, sold by shops “which are well established” or well-known brands. , warns the toxicologist, who strongly advises against very low-cost items offered on certain platforms where the origin remains unclear.
The DGCCRF also requires precise labeling of cosmetics: list of ingredients, precautions for use, expiry date, batch number, name and address of the company must appear on the product, with instructions in French. , recalls the toxicologist; , explains Stéphane Pirnay. If this information is lacking, Franceinfo emphasizes that it is better to abstain, even if it means opting for a simple textile disguise without makeup, especially for the little ones.
What are the main risks of Halloween makeup for children?
Party makeup can cause allergies, irritation and infections by affecting the skin and mucous membranes, particularly around the eyes and lips. Some poorly controlled products may also contain carcinogens or endocrine disruptors.
Are Halloween novelty lenses harmful to the eyes?
Yes, fancy lenses sold without control can damage the ocular mucosa and cause serious infections if they are poorly fitted or handled without hygiene. It is advisable to avoid them in children and to respect strict rules for washing and drying hands in adults.
How to spot a non-compliant or risky Halloween product?
A product without a list of ingredients, precautions for use, expiry date, batch number or complete contact details of the manufacturer does not comply with the obligations of the DGCCRF. If there are no instructions in French either or if the price is abnormally low for an imported product, it is better to do without it.
What to do if you have redness or itching after Halloween makeup?
The product should be removed immediately with water, stopped using it and monitored for changes to the skin. If symptoms persist or worsen, consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended.
Why are the words “prohibited for 0-3 years old” on costumes important?
These notices indicate a real risk of suffocation or accident linked to small parts or the shape of certain accessories. For infants and toddlers, it is therefore preferable to choose simple disguises without detachable elements or makeup.
