Happy Halloween Faces
by Will Zecco

Faces Whether its a Fairy Princess, Freddy Kruger or the Dark Night, dressing up for Halloween is fun; For kids and adults! Using make-up as an alternative to a mask is not only safer (masks can impair vision), it may also be less expensive and look a lot better.

You don't need to be a make-up artist to create a great face. With a little help, and some practice, you can create a wide variety of fabulous or ghoulish looks. Also, you need not spend a whole lot of money on fancy products to create a look. Costume shops offer a wide variety of different types of make up, from grease paint, to pancake make-up, to artificial wounds and scars that can be applied with special adhesive. However, there are often many options right at home in your own make-up drawer.

As with anything, there are a few things that you might want to consider before you slap on a lot of make-up or other products:

• Read all directions on specialty make up very carefully before application.
• Check all ingredients prior to application. Most make-up today is water soluble, easily removable, and very safe for use on all ages.
• Prior to applying make-up, use a light application of moisturizer to help combat any dryness. This will help transfer colors that have a red or dark base, and make removing the make-up easier.
• If you are concerned about skin sensitivity, pre-test the make-up you will be using BEFORE the big day. To test, dab a small amount on your arm and leave it for one full a day. If you develop a rash, or any other irritation, DO NOT USE it on your face. This is especially important if you already have allergies.
• Parental supervision is required for if make-up will be used on children.
• Children can sometimes be more sensitive to products that adults typically use.
• For mascara, use a disposable applicator. The transfer of an eye infection is the easiest thing to do. For children, buy a new inexpensive mascara to avoid any potentially contaminated products.
• Be very carful around the eyes. The skin around the eye is more fragile and can be easily stretched.
• Be gentle when removing eye make-up; use eye makeup remover whenever possible.
• Do not put anything on your face that is not intended for use on skin.
• Remove all make-up after the party is over. Cold cream is excellent for removing heavy make up like grease paint and pancake make up. Apply cold cream to the entire face. Then, using a soft cloth or tissues, remove excess make up. A couple of applications may be necessary depending on how heavy the makeup was applied. Finally, clean your face with a gentle cleanser.
• Never scrub! It can cause skin irritation.
• Once all the make–up is removed, apply a toner and light moisturizer. Ladies, eye cream is also beneficial
• Do not go to bed with make-up on your skin. Parents, help your kids remove their make-up.

Whatever direction you choose, there are endless options available on the internet. If you search Google for “Halloween Make-up” there are all kinds of tips and websites – as well as directions to your local costume shops. So enjoy the season safely.

Boo!