Dressing up is one of Halloween’s biggest traditions, but some costumes come with risks you might not expect. Prof Dr Fuat, an independent plastic surgeon within Longevita’s network, warns that the consequences can sometimes be serious enough to warrant a trip to A&E.
“A costume may only be worn for one night, but recovering from an injury can take much longer. Certain Halloween accessories and materials can cause injuries that need more than basic first aid,” says Prof Dr Fuat.
1. Flammable Costumes: A Burn Could Mean Skin Grafts
Prof Dr Fuat advises keeping synthetic costumes away from candles and open flames.
“Materials like polyester can melt when exposed to intense heat, potentially causing deep burns. These may not heal on their own and, in some cases, a skin graft may be needed to repair the damage,” he explains.
He also highlights the risk posed by synthetic wigs and fake beards, which can catch fire close to the face.
“Burns around the eyelids, lips and ears can be difficult to treat because the skin is delicate. As the skin heals, scar tissue can tighten and pull on the surrounding areas.
“For example, scarring around the eyelids can affect their movement, sometimes requiring reconstructive surgery to restore function,” he explains.
2. Halloween Masks: The Risk of a Permanent Facial Scar
Halloween masks may look convincing, but Prof Dr Fuat says there’s more to consider.
“Some Halloween masks can restrict your vision, making it easier to trip or bump into something in the dark,” he says. “A fall could leave you with a cut lip, facial wounds or even a broken nose, so it's worth making sure you can see properly before heading out.”
The lips are one area where even a small injury needs careful attention, according to the surgeon.
“If a cut crosses the border of the lip, the edges need to be lined up precisely when stitching. Even a slight mismatch can leave a visible difference once the wound has healed,” Prof Dr Fuat explains.
He adds that deep or gaping facial wounds should be assessed promptly rather than left to heal on their own.
3. Trailing Capes: The Fall That Could Leave You With a 'Tattoo'
Prof Dr Fuat points out that floor-length capes and oversized costumes can become trip hazards, particularly on uneven pavements.
“Even a seemingly minor scrape to the knees, elbows or hands can leave a lasting mark,” he explains. “This is known as traumatic tattooing, and it can happen when someone falls on a rough surface like tarmac.
“Tiny particles of asphalt, gravel or dirt can become embedded in the skin. If they're not properly removed before the wound heals, they can leave dark marks that look almost like a tattoo,” he adds.
And these marks can remain visible long after the wound itself has healed.
“Once those particles are trapped in the skin, they can be difficult to remove. In some cases, laser treatment or a minor surgical procedure may be needed. That's why cleaning the wound thoroughly early on is so important,” Prof Dr Fuat notes.
4. Fake Weapons: Plastic Doesn't Always Mean Harmless
Prof Dr Fuat also draws attention to costume accessories such as plastic swords, fake knives and props with exposed wires or metal edges.
“Just because something is made of plastic doesn't mean it can't cause an injury. A broken prop can leave a sharp edge, resulting in a cut that's deeper than it looks,” he notes.
Injuries to the hands deserve special attention, according to the surgeon.
“There are nerves and tendons just beneath the skin in certain parts of the hand,” he says. “If a sharp object reaches these structures, it can affect sensation or finger movement. That's why numbness or difficulty moving a finger after a cut should always be checked.”
He recommends choosing accessories with blunt, flexible edges and checking for any broken or exposed parts before wearing them.
5. Halloween Glue: The Hidden Risk of Nail Adhesives
Prof Dr Fuat also cautions against using unsuitable glues to attach fake wounds, horns and other Halloween prosthetics.
“Some adhesives can cause a skin reaction known as contact dermatitis, leaving the area red, itchy or even blistered. And removing a prosthetic that's stuck too firmly can sometimes damage the skin underneath,” he explains.
He also draws attention to an unusual reaction involving certain nail glues.
“Nail glues containing cyanoacrylate can react with cotton, producing enough heat to cause what's known as a thermal burn,” Prof Dr Fuat says. “In severe cases, surgery may even be needed to remove damaged skin and cover the area with a skin graft.”
He recommends using skin-safe adhesives for Halloween prosthetics and following the product instructions.
When to Seek Medical Help
Prof Dr Fuat advises seeking urgent medical attention for deep or gaping wounds, burns, and any loss of sensation or finger movement following an accident.
In an emergency, call 999 or go to your nearest A&E.