Do you know the story of Buddy Ebsen?  He was slated to play the Tin Man in the 1939 film, The Wizard of OZ, but had to be replaced after he was hospitalized because the aluminum makeup used with his costume made him extremely ill. 

Today's makeup artists are likely a bit more educated about what we can safely put on our skin, but that's not to say that we should put the safety of the most delicate faces completely in the hands of someone whose background we don't necessarily know.

Makeup artists are generally hired by the production on a per-project basis. (You can find Makeup Artists in our Membership Directory).  It is not uncommon for production companies to call on those artists they've used on previous projects regardless of whether or not that project employed children. Therefore, your child's makeup artist du jour may or may not be knowledgeable about makeup specifically suited for kids.

While you should try not to be overly pushy on the subject, it is okay to inquire about the products that will be used on your child especially if you know your child has reacted to certain products in the past.

When preparing your child's makeup yourself, makeup artist Betsy diFrancesca suggests to keep it very natural. "What parents should concern themselves with is covering anything up that might show up in a Polaroid." Makeup artist, Desiree Sweet agrees, "There isn't too much makeup involved with children since they have the skin all us adults strive to maintain!"

Pay close attention to makeup used to create special effects like scars or the "facial glue" used to apply items like silicone pieces or facial hair.  Unfortunately we've heard horror stories about this glue ripping the sensitive skin of a child when it is removed. This is not to scare you, but more to keep you aware.  If you are concerned about a product being used on your child, simply inquire politely about its ingredients or ask if a small patch could be tested first.