Anniekpeno UsorohSunscreen is an essential skin care product that protects our skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, preventing sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. However, while sunscreen is beneficial for our skin, it can cause intense irritation and discomfort if it accidentally gets into our eyes. The stinging, burning sensation can make it difficult to see and may lead to excessive tearing and redness.
If you’ve ever experienced this unpleasant situation, you might be wondering what to do if you get sunscreen in your eyes and how to find relief quickly. Whether it happens while applying sunscreen, sweating during outdoor activities, or accidentally rubbing your eyes, knowing the right steps to take can make a significant difference.
In this guide, we will explore why sunscreen causes eye irritation, immediate remedies to soothe your eyes, home treatments to reduce discomfort, and effective ways to prevent sunscreen from getting into your eyes in the future. By following these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of sun protection without the risk of painful eye irritation.
What To Do If You Get Sunscreen In Your Eyes
Why Does Sunscreen Burn Your Eyes?
If you’ve ever experienced the unpleasant stinging and burning sensation of getting sunscreen in your eyes, you may wonder why it happens. Sunscreen is formulated to protect your skin from harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, but certain ingredients can irritate when they come into contact with the sensitive tissues of the eye.
Here are the main reasons why sunscreen burns your eyes:
Chemical UV Filters Can Be Harsh on the Eyes
Many sunscreens contain chemical UV filters that absorb UV radiation and prevent sun damage. While these chemicals are effective at protecting the skin, they can cause burning, stinging, and irritation when they enter the eyes. Some of the most common chemical ingredients that can cause eye discomfort include:
Oxybenzone – A widely used UV filter that can be irritating to the eyes.
Avobenzone – Breaks down in sunlight and may cause a burning sensation if it comes into contact with the eyes.
Octocrylene – Found in many sunscreen formulas and known to irritate.
Homosalate & Octinoxate – Additional chemical filters that may contribute to eye discomfort.
These ingredients can disrupt the natural tear film in the eyes, leading to a painful, burning sensation.
Fragrances and Preservatives
Many sunscreens contain added fragrances, preservatives, and stabilizers to enhance their scent and shelf life. However, these additional ingredients can be irritating, especially for individuals with sensitive eyes or skin allergies.
The pH of Sunscreen is Different from Your Tears.
The pH level of the human eye is about 7.4, which is slightly alkaline. Sunscreen products often have a lower or higher pH, making them incompatible with the natural balance of your eyes. When sunscreen enters the eye, it disrupts this balance, leading to redness, burning, and excessive tearing.
Sunscreen Can Break Down into Irritating Compounds
Some sunscreen ingredients, particularly avobenzone, can degrade in sunlight or when mixed with water (such as sweat or swimming pool water). This breakdown can produce acidic or irritating byproducts that make the burning sensation worse.
Sunscreen Can Block Your Tear Glands
When sunscreen gets into your eyes, it can mix with your natural tears, forming an oily layer that blocks the tear ducts. This prevents proper lubrication of the eyes, leading to dryness, irritation, and even blurred vision.
Sunscreen is Designed to Stay on the Skin
Sunscreen is formulated to be water-resistant and adhere to the skin for long-lasting protection. This means that when it enters your eyes, it doesn’t wash away easily and may continue toirritaten until it is thoroughly rinsed out.
Sunscreen Can Contain Alcohol or Other Harsh Additives
Some sunscreen sprays and lotions contain alcohols and emulsifiers that help the product spread evenly and dry quickly. However, these ingredients can be harsh and dry, making them particularly painful when they enter the eyes.
Immediate Steps to Take If Sunscreen Gets in Your Eyes
Getting sunscreen in your eyes can be an incredibly painful and uncomfortable experience. The burning, stinging, and excessive tearing can make it difficult to see and cause prolonged irritation. However, acting quickly and following the right steps can help minimize discomfort and prevent further irritation. If you ever find yourself in this situation, here are the immediate steps to take if sunscreen gets in your eyes:
Do Not Rub Your Eyes
Your first instinct might be to rub your eyes to relieve the burning sensation, but this can make the situation worse. Rubbing can:
Spread the sunscreen deeper into the eye
Increased irritation and inflammation
Potentially damage the delicate eye tissue
Instead of rubbing, focus on flushing out the sunscreen as quickly as possible.
Rinse Your Eyes with Clean, Lukewarm Water
Flushing your eyes with water is the best way to remove sunscreen and relieve irritation. Follow these steps to properly rinse your eyes:
How to Rinse Your Eyes Effectively:
Use clean, lukewarm water (avoid hot or cold water)
Tilt your head to the side and let the water flow from the inner corner of your eye outward.
Blink frequently while rinsing to help flush out any remaining sunscreen
Use an eyewash station, saline solution, or clean water if available
Continue flushing your eyes for at least 10-15 minutes to ensure all sunscreen is removed.
Use Artificial Tears or Lubricating Eye Drops
After rinsing, your eyes may still feel dry or irritated. Using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help:
Restore moisture and soothe dryness
Wash away any lingering sunscreen particles
Reduce redness and irritation
Avoid eye drops that contain preservatives or medications, as these may cause further irritation. Stick to preservative-free lubricating drops for the best results.
Apply a Cold Compress
If your eyes remain red, swollen, or irritated after rinsing, try using a cold compress to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
How to Use a Cold Compress:
Soak a clean washcloth in cold water and gently place it over your closed eyelids
Hold it in place for 5-10 minutes
Repeat as needed for relief
Avoid placing ice directly on your eyes—use a cloth barrier to prevent damage to the delicate skin around the eyes.
Remove Contact Lenses (If Applicable)
If you wear contact lenses, remove them immediately after rinsing your eyes. Sunscreen residue can get trapped under the lenses, prolonging irritation and discomfort.
Wait until your eyes feel completely normal before putting your contacts back i.n
Consider switching to glasses for the rest of the day to allow your eyes to recover.er
Rest Your Eyes
After getting sunscreen in your eyes, your eyes may feel tired, sore, or sensitive. Giving them time to rest and recover can help speed up the healing process.
Avoid screens (phones, computers, TV) for a few hours
Stay out of bright lights and sunlight to reduce strain
Keep blinking frequently to help restore your tear film
Avoid Further Contamination
To prevent additional irritation:
Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your face or eyes again
Avoid reapplying sunscreen near your eyes until the irritation is completely gone
Use a gentle cleanser to wash your face if there’s excess sunscreen around your eyes
When to Seek Medical Attention
In most cases, sunscreen irritation subsides within a few hours after rinsing. However, you should seek medical help if you experience:
Severe pain or burning that does not improve
Persistent blurred vision
Extreme redness or swelling
Excessive tearing or discharge (which could indicate an infection)
Inability to open the eye due to irritation
Sensitivity to light that does not improve
If any of these symptoms occur, consult an eye doctor or visit an urgent care facility immediately.
How to Prevent Sunscreen from Getting in Your Eyes
Getting sunscreen in your eyes can be an unpleasant and painful experience, causing burning, redness, and excessive tearing. While it’s crucial to protect your skin from harmful UV rays, it’s equally important to apply sunscreen in a way that prevents irritation to your eyes. Here are some effective strategies to prevent sunscreen from getting into your eyes while still ensuring full sun protection.
Choose the Right Sunscreen
Not all sunscreens are created equal. Some are more likely to cause eye irritation than others, especially those that contain harsh chemicals. To minimize the risk of getting sunscreen in your eyes, consider the following:
Best Types of Sunscreen to Use:
Mineral Sunscreens – Sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are less likely to irritateion because they sit on top of the skin rather than being absorbed. Look for fragrance-free and hypoallergenic formulas.
Sunscreen Sticks – Stick sunscreens are solid and do not run, making them ideal for use around the eyes.
Gel-Based Sunscreens – These tend to be less greasy and less likely to drip into your eyes compared to creamy lotions.
Sweat-Resistant or Water-Resistant Sunscreens – These sunscreens are designed to stay put, reducing the risk of dripping into your eyes when you sweat.
Avoid sunscreens with oxybenzone, avobenzone, or strong fragrances, as these ingredients are more likely to cause burning and irritation.
Apply Sunscreen Carefully
Proper application of sunscreen can prevent accidental transfer to your eyes. Follow these best practices:
How to Apply Sunscreen Without Getting It in Your Eyes:
Use a pea-sized amount – Applying too much sunscreen increases the chance of excess product migrating into your eyes.
Apply sunscreen in layers – Start with a light layer and build up as needed to avoid excess product running down your face.
Apply sunscreen 15-20 minutes before going outside – This allows it to fully absorb into your skin, reducing the risk of it running when you sweat.
Avoid applying sunscreen too close to your eyes – Instead of applying directly on the eyelids, apply just below the brow bone and around the orbital socket to protect the delicate eye area without direct contact.
Tip: If you are applying sunscreen on children, be extra cautious to prevent accidental rubbing into their eyes.
Wear Protective Accessories
Using physical barriers can help prevent sunscreen from running into your eyes, especially during outdoor activities.
Wear Sunglasses – Wrap-around sunglasses provide extra protection by keeping sweat and sunscreen from dripping into your eyes.
Wear a Hat – A wide-brimmed hat or a cap with a visor can shield your face from the sun, reducing the need for excessive sunscreen application near the eyes.
Use a Sweatband or Headband – If you sweat a lot, wearing a sweatband around your forehead can absorb sweat and sunscreen, preventing it from running into your eyes.
Bonus: Some sunglasses have UV protection, providing additional safety against sun damage.
Avoid Touching Your Face
Many people accidentally get sunscreen in their eyes by touching or rubbing their face. To prevent this:
Wash your hands thoroughly after applying sunscreen – This removes any residue that could be transferred to your eyes.
Avoid wiping sweat from your face with your hands – Instead, use a clean towel or cloth to dab away sweat.
Be mindful during outdoor activities – If you’re swimming or playing sports, try not to touch your face excessively.
Tip: Keep a soft microfiber towel or facial wipes handy to clean your face without accidentally rubbing sunscreen into your eyes.
Use Layering Techniques for Sun Protection
Instead of relying solely on sunscreen, combine different sun protection methods:
Use a combination of sunscreen and physical protection – Pair sunscreen with a hat, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing.
Try SPF-infused makeup or moisturizers – Some BB creams, foundations, and moisturizers contain SPF and are less likely to migrate into the eyes.
Use powder sunscreen for touch-ups – Powder-based sunscreens are great for reapplication and do not run into the eyes like lotions.
Tip: If you’re reapplying sunscreen, dab it on gently instead of rubbing, it to minimize the risk of spreading it into your eyes.
Use a Different Sunscreen for Your Face and Body
Body sunscreens often contain more oily and greasy ingredients that can easily migrate to the eyes. Instead of using the same sunscreen for your face and body, consider:
Using a lightweight, non-greasy facial sunscreen specifically designed for the face.
Opt for a matte-finish or oil-free sunscreen, which is less likely to drip into your eyes.
Choosing a tinted sunscreen or SPF moisturizer as an alternative to traditional sunscreen lotion.
Avoid spraying sunscreens on your face—they can easily get into your eyes during application. Instead, spray it onto your hands first and then apply it to your face.
Reapply Sunscreen Safely
Sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours to remain effective. However, improper reapplication can lead to getting sunscreen in your eyes.
Best Practices for Reapplying Sunscreen:
Blot away excess sweat and oil before reapplying – This prevents sunscreen from mixing with sweat and running into your eyes.
Use a makeup sponge or beauty blender – Instead of rubbing sunscreen in with your hands, gently press it onto your skin with a sponge.
Try powder or stick sunscreens – These are less messy and ideal for quick reapplications.
If you are swimming or sweating excessively, reapply sunscreen more frequently to maintain sun protection.
Conclusion
Sunscreen is a vital part of any skincare routine, offering protection against harmful UV rays that can cause sunburn, premature aging, and even skin cancer. However, getting sunscreen in your eyes can be a painful and frustrating experience. Understanding why sunscreen burns your eyes, how to remove it safely, and most importantly, how to prevent it from happening can make a significant difference in your sun protection routine.
By choosing eye-friendly sunscreens, applying them carefully, and using physical barriers like sunglasses, hats, and sweatbands, you can significantly reduce the chances of sunscreen running into your eyes. Additionally, being mindful of how you apply and reapply sunscreen—such as opting for sunscreen sticks, powder SPF, or non-greasy formulas—can provide long-lasting protection without discomfort.
If sunscreen does get into your eyes, acting quickly by flushing them with clean water, using lubricating eye drops, and resting your eyes can help alleviate irritation. In most cases, the burning sensation subsides within a few hours, but if symptoms persist, seeking medical attention is the best course of action.
Edidiong
Anniekpeno Usoroh
