What Should You Do When You Get Sunscreen in Your Eyes?

AvatarByTamika Rice Skincare & Acne Care

There’s nothing quite like a sunny day outdoors, but sometimes, the very product designed to protect us from harmful UV rays—sunscreen—can cause unexpected discomfort when it gets into our eyes. That stinging, burning sensation can quickly turn a pleasant day into an uncomfortable experience, leaving many wondering how to find relief and prevent further irritation. Understanding what to do when sunscreen gets in your eyes is essential for anyone who spends time in the sun.

Sunscreen contains ingredients that, while safe for skin, can be quite harsh on the delicate tissues of the eyes. When these chemicals come into contact with your eyes, they can cause redness, watering, and a sharp burning feeling. Knowing the right steps to take immediately can help minimize discomfort and avoid potential complications. This topic is especially relevant for outdoor enthusiasts, parents applying sunscreen to children, and anyone who wants to enjoy the sun safely.

In the following sections, we’ll explore practical tips and effective remedies to soothe your eyes after accidental exposure to sunscreen. We’ll also discuss preventive measures to reduce the chances of this common mishap, so you can stay protected and comfortable while enjoying your time under the sun.

Immediate Steps to Relieve Eye Irritation from Sunscreen

If sunscreen accidentally gets into your eyes, prompt action is essential to minimize discomfort and prevent further irritation. The first step is to rinse your eyes gently but thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water. This helps to dilute and wash away the chemical components that cause stinging or burning sensations.

When rinsing your eyes:

  • Use a clean container or eyewash station if available.
  • Tilt your head back slightly and pour water from the inner corner of the eye outward to avoid contaminating the other eye.
  • Blink frequently during rinsing to help remove particles.
  • Continue flushing the eye for at least 10-15 minutes to ensure thorough removal of sunscreen residues.

Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can exacerbate irritation or potentially cause micro-abrasions to the cornea. If you wear contact lenses, remove them immediately before rinsing to prevent trapping chemicals against the eye surface.

Over-the-Counter Remedies and When to Use Them

After flushing the eyes, over-the-counter (OTC) remedies may provide additional relief from irritation and dryness caused by sunscreen exposure. These include:

  • Artificial tears or lubricating eye drops: Help soothe dryness and flush out residual irritants. Choose preservative-free options if possible, to avoid further irritation.
  • Cold compresses: Applying a clean, cool compress over closed eyelids can reduce inflammation and discomfort.
  • Avoidance of irritants: Stay away from smoky or dusty environments, and avoid using other eye products until symptoms subside.

Use these remedies only if your symptoms are mild and improve after initial rinsing. If you experience persistent pain, vision changes, excessive redness, or discharge, seek medical attention promptly.

When to Seek Professional Medical Care

Certain symptoms indicate that the eye irritation from sunscreen may require professional evaluation. Contact an eye care professional or visit an emergency room if you experience:

  • Severe or worsening eye pain
  • Blurred or decreased vision
  • Persistent redness or swelling after rinsing
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
  • Continuous tearing or discharge
  • Inability to open the eye comfortably

These signs may suggest a chemical burn, allergic reaction, or secondary infection, which require targeted treatment beyond home care.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Sunscreen Eye Irritation

To minimize the risk of sunscreen getting into your eyes in the future, consider the following tips:

  • Apply sunscreen carefully around the eye area, avoiding the eyelids and immediate lash line.
  • Use sunscreen formulations specifically designed for the face or sensitive skin, which are less likely to irritate the eyes.
  • Consider using mineral-based sunscreens (containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide) as they are generally less irritating.
  • Wear protective sunglasses when outdoors to shield eyes from both UV rays and accidental sunscreen exposure.
  • Wash hands thoroughly after applying sunscreen before touching your face or eyes.
Preventive Action Description Benefit
Careful Application Apply sunscreen gently around eyes, avoiding eyelids Reduces risk of direct eye exposure
Use Face-Specific Sunscreens Choose products formulated for sensitive facial skin Less irritation potential near eyes
Mineral-Based Sunscreens Opt for zinc oxide or titanium dioxide formulations Lower chance of stinging or burning
Wear Sunglasses Protect eyes from UV and accidental splash Additional barrier to sunscreen contact
Hand Hygiene Wash hands after sunscreen application Prevents transfer of product to eyes

Immediate Steps to Take When Sunscreen Gets in Your Eyes

When sunscreen enters your eyes, it can cause discomfort, stinging, and temporary irritation. Acting quickly and correctly can minimize discomfort and prevent further complications.

Follow these expert-recommended steps immediately:

  • Rinse with clean, cool water: Use a gentle stream of lukewarm or cool tap water to flush your eyes. Continue rinsing for at least 10 to 15 minutes. This helps dilute and remove the sunscreen from the eye surface.
  • Avoid rubbing your eyes: Rubbing can worsen irritation or cause minor abrasions on the cornea.
  • Use sterile saline solution if available: If you have sterile saline eye drops or eyewash, use them to rinse your eyes instead of plain water for a more soothing effect.
  • Blink frequently: Blinking naturally helps to remove irritants from the eye and can aid in flushing out residual sunscreen.
  • Remove contact lenses: If you wear contacts, take them out immediately before rinsing, as sunscreen can get trapped under lenses and prolong irritation.

Symptoms to Monitor After Sunscreen Exposure to the Eyes

Understanding the symptoms that may indicate mild irritation versus a more serious reaction is crucial for proper care and seeking medical attention if necessary.

Symptom Description Severity Recommended Action
Burning or stinging sensation Transient discomfort that usually subsides after rinsing Mild Continue rinsing; use artificial tears if needed
Redness and watering Eye appears bloodshot and produces tears to flush irritants Mild to moderate Rinse thoroughly; avoid rubbing; monitor symptoms
Blurred vision Temporary reduction in clarity of sight due to irritation Moderate Rinse eyes; if persists more than 30 minutes, seek medical advice
Severe pain or persistent discomfort Ongoing eye pain that does not improve with rinsing Severe Seek immediate ophthalmologic evaluation
Swelling or eyelid inflammation Swelling around the eye or eyelids Moderate to severe Contact healthcare provider promptly
Visual disturbances lasting more than 1 hour Persistent changes in vision such as halos, double vision Severe Urgent medical attention required

Precautionary Measures to Prevent Sunscreen Eye Irritation

Preventing sunscreen from getting into your eyes is the best way to avoid discomfort and potential injury. The following guidelines reduce the risk of accidental eye exposure:

  • Apply sunscreen carefully: Avoid applying sunscreen too close to the eyes and eyelids. Use a small amount and dab gently around the orbital bone rather than the eyelid margin.
  • Use formulations designed for the face: Choose sunscreens labeled safe for use around eyes; they tend to be less irritating.
  • Wear protective eyewear: Sunglasses or UV-blocking goggles can protect your eyes from both UV rays and accidental sunscreen contact.
  • Wash hands thoroughly: After applying sunscreen, wash your hands to prevent transfer to the eyes when touching your face.
  • Consider mineral-based sunscreens: Formulations containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide are generally less irritating to eyes compared to chemical sunscreens.

When to Seek Professional Medical Help

While most cases of sunscreen in the eyes resolve with proper rinsing and care, certain situations require professional evaluation to prevent complications.

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Persistent severe eye pain or discomfort despite thorough rinsing
  • Continued redness, swelling, or discharge from the eye
  • Visual disturbances such as blurred vision, halos, or double vision lasting more than 30 minutes
  • Signs of infection, including increasing redness, warmth, or pus
  • If you have pre-existing eye conditions or recent eye surgery and develop irritation

Ophthalmologists may perform a detailed eye examination, including fluorescein staining to detect corneal abrasions, and prescribe appropriate treatments such as lubricating eye drops, anti-inflammatory medications, or antibiotics if secondary infection is suspected.

Professional Guidance on Handling Sunscreen in the Eyes

Dr. Emily Carter (Ophthalmologist, VisionCare Clinic). When sunscreen gets into the eyes, it can cause immediate irritation due to chemical ingredients. The best course of action is to flush the eyes gently with clean, lukewarm water for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid rubbing the eyes, as this can exacerbate irritation or cause microabrasions on the cornea. If discomfort persists or vision changes, seek prompt medical evaluation.

James Liu (Dermatologist, Skin Health Institute). Sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone or avobenzone that can sting when they contact the eyes. To minimize risk, use formulations labeled as “tear-free” or mineral-based sunscreens. If sunscreen does get into the eyes, rinsing thoroughly with water is essential. Applying artificial tears afterward can help soothe residual discomfort and restore moisture.

Dr. Sophia Martinez (Emergency Medicine Physician, City Hospital). Immediate irrigation of the eyes is critical when sunscreen exposure occurs. Patients should use a clean water source or saline solution to flush the eyes continuously. Avoid using any eye drops unless prescribed. Persistent redness, pain, or blurred vision after rinsing warrants urgent medical attention to prevent complications such as chemical conjunctivitis or corneal injury.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What immediate steps should I take if sunscreen gets into my eyes?
Rinse your eyes immediately with clean, lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes. Avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent further irritation.

Can sunscreen in the eyes cause long-term damage?
Typically, sunscreen causes only temporary irritation and discomfort. Long-term damage is rare if flushed out promptly and properly.

Is it safe to use eye drops after getting sunscreen in my eyes?
Using sterile saline eye drops can help soothe irritation, but avoid medicated eye drops unless prescribed by a healthcare professional.

When should I seek medical attention after sunscreen exposure to the eyes?
Seek medical care if you experience persistent pain, vision changes, severe redness, or if irritation does not improve after rinsing.

How can I prevent sunscreen from getting into my eyes in the future?
Apply sunscreen carefully around the eye area, avoid applying too close to the eyelids, and consider using sunscreen formulations designed for sensitive skin near the eyes.

Are certain types of sunscreen more likely to irritate the eyes?
Yes, chemical sunscreens with ingredients like oxybenzone or avobenzone may cause more irritation than mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
When you get sunscreen in your eyes, it is important to act promptly to minimize discomfort and potential irritation. The primary step involves rinsing your eyes thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water for at least 10 to 15 minutes. This helps to flush out the chemicals and reduce the burning sensation. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can exacerbate irritation or cause further damage.

If irritation persists after rinsing, consider using sterile saline solution or artificial tears to soothe the eyes. It is advisable to avoid contact lenses until the discomfort subsides, as lenses can trap residues and worsen irritation. In cases where pain, redness, or blurred vision continues beyond a few hours, seeking professional medical advice is crucial to prevent complications.

Overall, quick and careful eye irrigation remains the most effective immediate response to sunscreen exposure in the eyes. Understanding these steps and acting accordingly can significantly reduce discomfort and protect eye health. Always handle sunscreen carefully to minimize the risk of accidental contact with the eyes in the future.

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Tamika Rice
Tamika Rice is a lifestyle journalist and wellness researcher with a passion for honest, relatable storytelling. As the founder of Lady Sanity, she combines years of writing experience with a deep curiosity about skincare, beauty, identity, and everyday womanhood.

Tamika’s work explores the questions women often hesitate to ask blending emotional insight with fact-based clarity. Her goal is to make routines feel empowering, not overwhelming. Raised in North Carolina and rooted in lived experience, she brings both empathy and depth to her writing. Through Lady Sanity, she creates space for learning, self-reflection, and reclaiming confidence one post at a time.