money 13 Cute and Creepy Halloween Face Masks for Kids That Will Also Protect Them
13 Cute and Creepy Halloween Face Masks for Kids That Will Also Protect Them
While Halloween costume masks can’t protect against the coronavirus, you can buy festive cloth coverings that do. Check out our favorite creepy, fun, and eccentric Halloween face masks for COVID-19 times.
We don't know exactly what Halloween will look like this year, but we can count on COVID-19 safety measures still being in place. Think social distanced trick-or-treating, plenty of hand sanitizer, and all children aged 2 and older wearing face masks in public in accordance with current guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
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Wondering if Halloween costume masks—whether it’s a cloth face covering or a plastic headpiece—can protect against COVID-19? The answer, according to experts, is no. “Masks that don’t meet stated criteria from the CDC are not appropriate face masks,” says Belinda Dao, M.D., a CHOC Children’s pediatrician.
“Protective masks should cover your child’s nose and mouth, be secure under their chin, and fit snugly against the sides of their face,” adds Marnie Granados, M.D., a CHOC Children’s pediatrician. Halloween costume masks are not meant to be protective, adds Sarah Fankhauser, Ph.D., assistant professor of biology and infectious disease expert at Oxford College of Emory University. Because of this, they can’t be guaranteed to filter out COVID-causing particles.
But what if your child refuses to leave the house without their Spiderman face covering or plastic Elsa mask? “I would recommend wearing a cloth mask under the Halloween mask, especially if the child will be in a crowded area,” advises Dr. Fankhauser. “Perhaps a fun alternative could be a special-design cloth mask that can complement the costume.”
Here are a few of our favorite Halloween face mask options for kids:
1. Trolls Face Masks
Your child can share their love for the Trolls film series with these washable face masks. The pack comes with three separate designs, so you can swap them out throughout the month of October.
2. Spider Web Face Mask
Not only does this cotton face mask have a cool spider web design, it also glows in the dark. A variety of size options ensures a perfect fit for your child.
3. Frozen Face Mask
Your child will actually be excited to wear these themed face masks, which feature Anna and Elsa from Frozen. But be warned: They might sing “Let It Go” and “Into the Unknown” all day long.
4. Halloween Skeleton Mask
Calling all lovers of The Nightmare Before Christmas! This mask resembles Jack Skellington, the patron spirit of Halloween.
5. Paw Patrol Face Masks
With a breathable cotton lining and contoured nose design, these masks provide COVID-19 protection for anyone who loves Paw Patrol.
6. Rainbow Face Mask
Made with a colorful ombre design, this face mask improves any Halloween costume, whether your child is going as a fairy, unicorn, mermaid, or more.
7. Dinosaur Smile Mask
Rawr! Get ready to scare your neighbors with this dinosaur-themed Halloween mask.
8. LOL Surprise Doll Masks
Does your child love LOL Surprise Dolls? Now they can bring their favorite characters everywhere with these half-face masks for Halloween.
9. Superman Face Masks
Your little one will transform into a superhero by donning these Superman-themed Halloween face masks. Now it’s time to save the town from COVID-19!
10. Shark Face Masks
Whether your child is fascinated by Jaws or avoids the ocean altogether, this face mask will bring any shark costume to the next level. Just look at those sharp teeth!
11. Pixar Face Masks
From Monsters Inc. to Toy Story, these Pixar face masks might display your child’s favorite character. (Note: Reviews say these masks run small.)
12. Princess Face Shield
Face shields provide an added layer of protection against COVID-19 (although your child should still wear a cloth covering underneath it). This pretty design features a glittery tiara fit for a princess.
13. Pirate Face Shield
After donning this full-face mask shield for Halloween, your child will probably start talking like a pirate. Ahoy, matey!
The Bottom Line
Halloween costume masks can’t be used as a substitute for CDC-recommended face protection, but your child can still dress up with fun cloth coverings. “Prior to making any Halloween plans this year, parents should be sure to check the most up-to-date guidelines from the CDC or the American Academy of Pediatrics,” says Dr. Granados.
