December 8, 2016
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of New Zealand has released a fact sheet focused on face paints and kids cosmetics.
The fact sheet is entitled as Face Paints and Kids Cosmetics, We’ve Got Advice About How to Safely Use and Buy Face Paints and Kids Cosmetics. The fact sheet provides the following tips for the safe use of face paints and kids cosmetics:
- Only use skin paints and glitters that are made for that purpose. Even non-toxic craft paints can cause skin reactions.
- Buy face paints and cosmetics from retailers that you know and trust
- If you are in any doubt about the safety of a product – don’t buy or use it.
- If the label isn’t in English or doesn’t list the ingredients the product isn’t compliant with the rules.
- Read the label and follow the instructions – many face paints shouldn’t be used around the eyes.
- Patch test the product on whoever will be wearing it a few days before use.
- Store face paints and cosmetics out of reach of small children. Even if the product says it’s non-toxic and natural it could be dangerous if it were swallowed.
- Don’t use face paints that smell bad, even if they are new. It may mean that bacteria are growing in the paint.
- Don’t leave face paints on overnight. If they are worn too long they can irritate the skin.
- Remove the face paint by following the instructions on the face paint’s packaging.
The fact sheet was released on November 1, 2016.