Better Beauty: How to Avoid a Halloween Horror

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Every year I see unfortunate "side-effects" from Halloween disguises gone wrong.  Don't get caught up in the moment and do something that could have possible long-term implications. 

Here are five things to consider when preparing for your night of trick-or-treating:  

Problem:  Frightful False Lashes

Don't assume you can use last year's false lashes and adhesive again this year.  I once had a woman come into my cosmetic studio the day after a costume party, in tears.  It seems her lash glue had dried up and in her attempt to make do, she used Super Glue.  We tried every type of eye makeup remover available to get them off but the lashes wouldn't budge.  It was weeks before she was finally able to pry them off.        

Solution:  Check out your supplies ahead of time and don't try to substitute a product that wasn't originally intended    for the job.  Most lash adhesives dry out after a couple of months, so purchase a new tube if yours is older than that.  

Problem:  Hair Color Chaos

Many disguises require a different "do" than what you are currently sporting.  One year I decided to go as Cleopatra and used spray-on hair color to change my blond bob to black.  The can stated it was safe and would wash out with one or two shampoos.  What the can didn't state was that the color could stain color-treated or permed hair.  My once beautifully highlighted hair was grey for several days.      

Solution:  If you want to change your hair color for the night, buy a cheap wig at the costume store or get creative and make your own wig with yarn.   If you do decide to use a temporary color, protect your hair with a leave-in conditioner before applying the product.  

Problem:  Nightmare Nails

Lots of characters look more authentic with long, pointed fingernails like witches, goblins and Freddy Kruger, to name a few.  Once the night is over, however, removing them can be problematic.  The glue (even though it is supposed to be temporary) can damage nails, especially if your nails are soft or prone to peeling or splitting.      

Solution:  Paint nails with two base coats of clear polish.  This will protect your natural nails and make removal of the false nails easier.  

Problem: Makeup Mishap

Makeup is one of the easiest and least expensive ways to change your look and adds a dramatic touch to most costumes.  Many stores have a selection of "grease paint" and other special cosmetics available for purchase during the Halloween season.  But beware.  Some products contain ingredients that can wreak havoc on your skin, especially if you are allergic.      

Solution:  To avoid a breakout or a serious allergic reaction, be sure to do a patch test by applying a small amount of the product behind the ear a day or two before using.  If you happen to be allergic to the product it is far better to find out before you have applied it to your face or body.  (For a quick and easy recipe to make your own Halloween makeup, go to my website at www.TotalFashionMakeover.com.)  

Problem:  Clothing Killers

Last week I gave you suggestions for creating homemade costumes from items you may already have in your closet.  Using your "good" clothes for a costume can be problematic though.  Using pins or tape to affix decorative detail to clothing can leave holes or residue and cause permanent damage.  Also, heavy makeup or grease paint on face or body and artificial hair color could leave permanent stains.      

Solution:  Purchase inexpensive garments from a thrift store or consignment shop.  This will save you from having to repair an item you wish to wear again or replace it with a new one.    

If you have a question or suggestion for a future Better Beauty blog, email Kelly at AskKellyQuestions@yahoo.com.  

For more beauty and fashion tips, log on to Kelly's website at www.TotalFashionMakeover.com.