Halloween can be one of the most exciting nights of the year. Adults and kids are dressing up, houses are decorated for trick-or-treaters, and candy is available at almost every door. Because Halloween night is comprised of so many activities and potential allergens, many people suffer allergy-related attacks during the holiday.

Many parents are already aware of the food allergery risks during Halloween, but many fail to realize allergens can also be hidden in the materials and fabrics of Halloween costumes and decorations. The American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology suggests parents take the time to read costume and decoration labels to ensure they don't pose risks to their children.

To help protect your children from allergy-related attacks, we have listed four of the most common allergens found in Halloween costumes and decorations:

• Nickel - Nickel can be found in many costume accessories such as cowboy belts, swords, tiaras, magic wands, and more. This substance is one of the most frequent causes of allergic contact dermatitis, which can make a person’s skin itchy and uncomfortable
• Latex - Latex can be found in a large assortment of Halloween products such as masks, decorations, body suits, and costumes. In addition, many people use liquid latex to create special effects make-up and to use as body painting material.
• Dust Mites - Many people store old costumes and decorations in areas where dust accumulates. As a result, when a person retrieves an old costume or decoration from a dusty area, dust mites on or around the costumes or decorations can trigger a person’s allergies. To help prevent allergy-related attacks, make sure to clean the products before using.
• Makeup - Makeup is a common cause of allergy-related attacks on Halloween night. This is because a lot of makeup, especially makeup designed for face painting, contains various types of fragrances, preservatives, dye, and more.

Allergy Specialists from the Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia Can Help You

If you and your family plan to join in on the Halloween festivities, make sure to read the labels of decorations and check your children’s costumes for any potential hazardous materials. While some allergic reactions are minor, others can be dangerous if they affect a person’s ability to breathe. By checking to make sure that minimal allergens are present in costume materials or decorations, you and your family can breathe easy and have a happy, safe Halloween.

If you are unsure about your children’s allergies or have questions regarding their health, contact the Center for Allergy and Asthma of Georgia today.