Those who celebrate Halloween in style do so dressed up and wearing makeup. However, the spooky celebration can end without evil.
The “Heute” newspaper warns that spooky young fans should be careful because costumes and makeup can be contaminated with harmful substances. In addition, they are often produced in poor quality.
The Food Supervisory Authority of Upper Austria regularly confirms warnings for children’s costumes and cosmetics: There is a risk of strangulation, suffocation, and flammability. In addition, heavy metals or other harmful substances may be contained. Many of the criticized products come from China.
“My tips for parents are, therefore: it is better to do without disguises with small detachable parts or long cords and ribbons,” explains state councilor Stefan Kaineder (Greens), responsible for consumer protection. It is also possible to use Velcro fasteners and costumes made of cotton or wash them.
For clothing made of plastic, one should pay attention to the note “flame retardant.” Face masks, for example, can be contaminated with plasticizers: “An odor test is recommended here. If it smells unpleasantly strongly of plastic or chemicals: better not to wear it on your skin,” recommends Kaineder.
“And who is still searching for a suitable scary costume can swap with other families” the politician has a sustainable swap tip ready. “Often, the older children can still find one or other suitable disguise.”
The AGES (Austrian Agency for Food Safety) checked 47 children’s costumes from all over Austria last year. Ten samples, or more than one in five, were objected to, in some cases more than once, for lack of safety and labeling.
As “Heute” reported, there are also some aspects to consider with colored and specially shaped Halloween contact lenses. These lenses should only be purchased from a licensed ophthalmologist or optician.
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