Trick or treat? When it comes to Halloween, we all love a scary costume, but avoid a truly frightening eye injury by taking precautions when it comes to selecting an outfit and accessories for you and your child this year.

Thomas Eye Group recommends the following tips to ensure good eye health while enjoying the year’s spookiest celebration.

Avoid decorative contact lenses

According to an article in USA Today, the American Academy of Ophthalmology warns that over-the-counter decorative lenses can cause pain, inflammation, serious infection and permanent vision loss.

Be aware that it’s against federal law to sell contact lenses in unlicensed outlets such as costume shops, party stores and beauty supply stores, but the law is not always followed. Decorative lenses from unlicensed manufacturers may be made from inferior plastic or contain toxic dyes. If you or your child insists on wearing decorative contact lenses, a comprehensive eye exam should be scheduled with an ophthalmologist. The doctor can determine the correct size, curvature and, if needed, prescription for the lens.

Avoid Swords and Other Pointed Objects on Costumes

Spears, knives, wands and swords are popular accessories for many costumes, but serious eye injuries can occur if one of these pointed objects hits an eye. As children roam the streets during the evening, be sure that any pointed objects are safely tucked inside a belt carrier or scabbard or opt for accessories made of soft or flexible materials. If your child does get poked in the eye, thoroughly inspect it for any signs of redness, decreased vision or pain. Eye injuries may be more serious than they appear. If your child reports pain or blurred vision in the eye or if the eye is discolored or bloodshot, take your child to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Use FDA Approved Make up Around the Eyes

If you or your child's costume includes face paint and make-up, use a hypo-allergenic brand and make sure that any color additives to the face paint are FDA approved. When applying make-up near or around the eye, stay away from the lid margin, or lash line and don’t use blush or lip-liner to create a "red" effect, as some ingredients may not be approved for use in the eye and bacteria from the mouth can be transmitted. Remove make up with cold cream instead of soap and water. If make-up gets into the eye, rinse it with cool water. If redness or irritation persists, see an eye care professional as soon as possible.

Thomas Eye Group wishes you and your little goblins a safe and Happy Halloween!