How to Make Fake Blood for Halloween

Kid-safe edible fake blood

Three pantry ingredients, no cooking, about 5 minutes.

1. Whisk 1/2 cup corn syrup with about 20 drops of red food coloring.
2. Slowly stir in 2 teaspoons of cocoa powder until there are no clumps. No cocoa? Use chocolate syrup.
3. For a deeper, more realistic red, add one drop of blue food coloring. Go slow: a little goes a long way.
4. Want it thicker? Stir in a little cornstarch.
5. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.

Sources: HGTV: edible fake blood, Allrecipes: edible fake blood, Emma's Cake Studio

Washable fake blood for costumes and props

Not edible. Use it on costumes and props, not in or near the mouth.

1. Start with clear liquid laundry detergent.
2. Mix in red washable finger paint.
3. Add a touch of blue washable paint for a more realistic color.
4. Add a little cornstarch for a thicker consistency.

Source: USA Today: how to make fake blood

Skin, eye and stain safety

1. Patch-test: put a small amount on the wearer's arm 24 to 48 hours before Halloween. Redness, rash or swelling means don't use it.
2. Keep fake blood and makeup out of eyes.
3. Don't sleep in it. Remove it gently, as the label says, or with soap and warm water.
4. Fake blood can stain fabric. Blot stains with 1 teaspoon mild dish liquid in 1 cup warm water, wash cold, and skip the dryer until the stain is gone.

Sources: FDA: Halloween safety tips, FDA: novelty makeup, HealthyChildren.org (AAP), Consumer Reports: stain removal