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Going to a costume party this Halloween? If so, chances are you have some accessories to spice up your costume – maybe a witch’s hat, crazy jewelry or some festive makeup. If fun Halloween makeup is in your costume plans, you might want to read some of our tips before you go hitting the glittery eyes for that awesome Ke$ha costume you’re planning.

While glitter can add instant glitz and glam, it can also cause eye injuries, discomfort and infections if not used correctly. Big chunks of glitter that fall into the eye can scratch the cornea and leave your eyes bloodshot. Unless you’re going for monster or zombie makeup, you probably don’t want that.

Here are a few Halloween makeup tips on how to have glittery, yet pain-free, eyes:

• Never use glitter that isn’t intended to be makeup! Don’t think you can sprinkle craft store glitter on your eyelids. It is often cut in bigger chunks and made out of metal which could scratch your cornea or irritate your eye.
• Before you pile on a bunch of glitter, test it out on your skin. Does it irritate your skin? Does it fall easily into your eyes? Make sure you know before you wear it all night.
• Is it a loose glitter or liquid? If it’s a glittery “goo” that has to be applied with a brush or stick, it’s better to put on your eyelids than “loose” glitter. Loose glitter will fly into your eyes and irritate you – or worse, scratch your eyes.
• Read the instructions! If it says, “not intended for use around the eyes” or “avoid eye area,” don’t put it on your eyes! Some glitter is made to brush on your cheeks but not meant for eyes. Stick to the directions.
• Apply the glitter over a layer of liquid or cream eye shadow. If glitter has a “sticky” base to hold on to, it’s less likely to fall into your eyes throughout the night. A bonus is you can make some cool colors combinations!

Enchanting, sparkly eyes can really add to your magical Halloween costume. The trick is using the right kind of glitter and applying it correctly so your Halloween makeup looks beautiful from start to finish.