Parents in Ireland are being urged to check Halloween cosmetics carefully after the Health Products Regulatory Authority (HPRA) found elevated levels of lead in some face paints. The warning is particularly relevant to families buying products online or from sellers outside the European Union.
What the HPRA found
The HPRA said seven of 40 face-paint and Halloween cosmetic products sampled over the past two years did not comply with EU cosmetic safety requirements. The products were removed from the Irish market after testing identified elevated lead levels.
The findings have prompted a public safety warning before Halloween, when face paints are commonly used by children and adults for costumes, parties and community events.
Why this matters for families
Lead is a toxic substance, and exposure can pose serious health risks. Children are especially vulnerable to harmful chemical exposure because of their developing bodies and frequent hand-to-face contact.
The HPRA’s warning does not mean every Halloween cosmetic is unsafe. Instead, it highlights the importance of buying products from reputable suppliers and checking whether the item has been made for the European market.
Products requiring extra care
Parents and guardians should take particular care with cosmetics that are:
- Purchased from websites or sellers based outside the European Union
- Missing clear ingredient information or safety instructions
- Sold without details identifying the manufacturer or responsible importer
- Packaged with labelling that appears incomplete, unclear or poorly translated
- Marketed as novelty products without sufficient cosmetic information
How to check Halloween face paint
Before applying face paint, consumers should inspect the packaging and confirm that it includes appropriate labelling. EU cosmetic products should provide information such as ingredients, precautions for use and details of the manufacturer or responsible person.
Families should also follow the directions on the packaging and avoid using products on broken, irritated or sensitive skin. Cosmetics should not be applied near the eyes or mouth unless the product is specifically intended for those areas.
Practical safety steps
- Buy face paints from established retailers or trusted Irish and EU-based sellers.
- Read the full ingredient list and safety instructions before use.
- Do not use products with missing, damaged or suspicious labelling.
- Carry out a small skin test if the product advises one.
- Remove the paint promptly after the event and stop using it if irritation develops.
What consumers should do if they are concerned
Anyone who experiences a reaction after using face paint should remove the product and seek appropriate medical advice if symptoms continue or worsen. Consumers should retain the packaging, as product details can help identify the item and support any report or investigation.
The HPRA has responsibility for monitoring the safety of cosmetics and other health-related products on the Irish market. Product safety information and notices may be published through official regulatory channels as concerns are identified.
What happens next
The removal of the seven non-compliant products means those items should no longer be legally available on the Irish market. However, products sold through international online marketplaces may be more difficult for authorities to monitor, making consumer checks especially important.
The warning comes as demand for Halloween cosmetics increases. Parents can reduce the risk of buying unsuitable products by choosing traceable suppliers, checking labels before purchase and avoiding cosmetics with limited safety information.
Frequently asked questions
Are all Halloween face paints dangerous?
No. The HPRA identified seven non-compliant products among 40 samples tested over the past two years. The finding does not suggest that every face-paint product is unsafe.
Why are products bought outside the EU a concern?
Products made or sold outside the European Union may not follow EU cosmetic requirements. Labelling, ingredients and safety controls can differ, particularly when items are purchased through unfamiliar online sellers.
What should parents check before buying?
Check the ingredient list, warnings, instructions and manufacturer or importer details. Avoid products with incomplete labelling or no clear information about who made or supplied them.
Key takeaway for Halloween
The latest Breaking News from Ireland’s health watchdog is a reminder to treat novelty cosmetics as regulated products, not harmless accessories. Checking the label and choosing a reputable seller can help families enjoy Halloween while reducing avoidable exposure to unsafe ingredients.