Study finds lead and toxins in face paints

You might want to think twice about painting your kids' faces this Halloween. The face paint could be toxic.

Topics
Halloween
Allergies

Fox59.com

11:12 a.m. EDT, October 28, 2009

E-mail
Print
Text Size

wxin-lead-toxic-face-paint-102809

A new study tested 10 face paint products all widely available online or in craft or Halloween stores. All of them contained lead and six contained known skin allergens well above recommended levels.

One of those face paints with the highest levels was advertised as "non-toxic and hypoallergenic".

If you do decide to use face paints the FDA advises that parents follow directions carefully, including instructions to not use the products around the eyes; don't use the paints if it smells bad -- it could be contaminated; and test the face paint a few days before to be sure your child doesn't have an allergic reaction.