Halloween Eye Safety Tips: Protecting Your Vision While Having Fun

Halloween is a favorite time of year for kids and adults alike—costumes, candy, and spooky fun. But while you’re picking out the perfect costume, it’s important to keep eye safety in mind. As optometrists, we want families to enjoy the holiday without accidents or eye injuries. Here are some Halloween safety tips for costumes, masks, and decorative contact lenses to help protect your vision this season.

Choose Masks Kids Can See Out Of Clearly

Masks are a popular part of many Halloween costumes, but they can sometimes block vision. Poorly fitted masks may limit peripheral vision, making it harder for kids to see cars, steps, or other trick-or-treaters.

• Look for masks with large eye openings.
• Test your child’s mask in a well-lit room before Halloween night.
• If vision is restricted, consider face paint instead of a full mask.

Avoid Non-Prescription Decorative Contact Lenses

Decorative or “cosmetic” contact lenses—like cat eyes, vampire red, or all-white sclera lenses—may seem like the perfect accessory to a spooky costume. However, non-prescription contact lenses sold without an eye exam can be dangerous.

• Ill-fitting lenses can cause scratches, infections, or even vision loss.
• Only purchase costume contact lenses from a licensed eye doctor with a valid prescription.
• Never share contact lenses, even decorative ones.

If your teen is interested in wearing Halloween contact lenses, schedule an eye exam to ensure they are fitted safely.

Watch Out for Sharp Objects in Costumes

Costume swords, wands, pitchforks, or other props with sharp ends can easily poke an eye if someone trips or bumps into another trick-or-treater. To reduce risk:

• Choose props made of soft, flexible materials.
• Avoid overly long items that can drag or swing around.
• Remind kids not to run while holding costume accessories.

Prevent Trip Hazards in Costumes

Long costumes and flowing capes may look dramatic but can be hazardous. Children may trip and fall, increasing the risk of eye injuries or facial trauma.

• Hem costumes to ankle length or shorter.
• Avoid shoes that are too big for walking safely.
• Make sure costumes are free of dangling parts that could catch on decorations.

Halloween is a time for fun, creativity, and family memories. By following these Halloween eye safety tips, you can keep vision clear and protected while enjoying the holiday.

If you have questions about decorative contact lenses or want to schedule an eye exam before Halloween, our office is here to help. Protecting your vision is no trick—it’s a treat you’ll enjoy for years to come.

About Bissell Eye Care: John D. Bissell, OD, is the owner of Bissell Eye Care, proudly serving the Northern Pittsburgh and Alle-Kiski Valley regions. Dr. Bissell has received advanced training through the International Academy of Low Vision Specialists, enabling him to help patients living with vision impairment and low vision challenges. With two convenient office locations and evening appointments available, Bissell Eye Care offers comprehensive eye exams for the entire family—starting as young as six months. Our services include ocular disease detection and treatment, prescription eyeglasses and sunglasses, specialty activewear eyewear, contact lenses, and dedicated low vision evaluations for those with significant vision impairment and vision loss. We accept most vision and health insurance plans. To learn more, visit bisselleyecare.com or call our Bakerstown office at 724-443-6767 or our Natrona Heights office at 724-226-0444.