How to Get Sunscreen Out of Eyes Safely and Effectively

The sun is shining brightly, and you’re enjoying a day at the beach. You’ve applied sunscreen liberally, but somehow, a little bit gets in your eye. It starts to sting, and you feel a burning sensation. You try to blink it out, but it’s no use. The sunscreen is starting to blur your vision.

You panic. You’ve heard stories about people going blind from getting sunscreen in their eyes. You don’t know what to do.

But don’t worry, you’re not alone. This happens to a lot of people. The good news is, there is a safe and effective way on how to get sunscreen out of eyes. To know this, dig deeper into this article and you’ll be back to enjoying the sun in no time.

What Ingredients in Sunscreen Cause Irritation?

There are a number of ingredients in sunscreen that can cause irritation in some people. The most common offenders include:

• Oxybenzone (benzophenone-3)
• Dibenzoylmethanes
• Cinnamates
• Benzophenones
• PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid)

These ingredients are all chemical sunscreens, which work by absorbing UV rays and preventing them from reaching the skin. However, they can also be irritating to some people’s skin, especially if they have a history of allergies or sensitive skin.

Other ingredients that can cause irritation in some people include:

• Fragrances
• Preservatives
• Alcohol
• Oils

These ingredients are not always the active ingredients in sunscreen, but they can still be irritating to some people’s skin. If you have sensitive skin, it is important to choose a sunscreen that is fragrance-free and has minimal preservatives. You should also avoid sunscreens that contain oils, as these can clog pores and make acne worse.

If you experience any irritation after using sunscreen, it is important to stop using it and see a doctor or dermatologist. They can help you determine the cause of the irritation and recommend a sunscreen that is safe for you to use.

Why Is It Important to Remove Sunscreen from Your Eyes?

Taking proper care of your eyes is essential for maintaining clear vision and overall eye health. Sunscreen, while beneficial for protecting your skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, can become a nuisance and even pose risks when it comes into contact with your eyes. 

Here are some important reasons why you should promptly remove sunscreen from your eyes. 

Irritation and discomfort

Sunscreen formulations often contain active chemicals, preservatives, and fragrances that are intended for skin application. However, these ingredients can be harsh on the delicate tissues of the eyes. When sunscreen accidentally gets into your eyes, it can lead to immediate irritation, causing symptoms such as burning, redness, and itching.

Vision impairment

Your eyes play a crucial role in daily activities that require clear vision. If sunscreen particles remain in your eyes, they can cause temporary visual disturbances, including blurriness and haziness. Such impairment can be dangerous when performing tasks like driving, using tools, or simply navigating your surroundings.

Infection risk

Sunscreen in the eyes can create a breeding ground for bacteria and other microorganisms. The moist and warm environment of the eyes can foster bacterial growth, increasing the risk of eye infections like conjunctivitis (commonly known as pink eye) or other inflammatory conditions.

Corneal damage

The outermost layer of the eye, called the cornea, is responsible for focusing light onto the retina. Sunscreen particles entering the eyes can potentially scratch or damage the cornea’s surface, leading to pain, discomfort, and even the risk of corneal abrasions. Prompt removal of sunscreen reduces the chance of corneal harm.

Allergic reactions

Some individuals might have sensitivities or allergies to specific sunscreen ingredients. When sunscreen comes into contact with the eyes, it can trigger allergic reactions that exacerbate discomfort and irritation, further compromising eye health.

Long-term effects

While isolated instances of sunscreen entering the eyes might not result in lasting harm, repeated exposures can contribute to chronic irritation and potential long-term damage to the eye tissues. Consistently protecting your eyes from such exposure helps maintain their health and comfort over time.

How to Prevent Sunscreen from Getting into Your Eyes

Preventing sunscreen from getting into your eyes can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re sweating, swimming, or engaging in outdoor activities. However, here are some tips to minimize the chances of sunscreen getting into your eyes. 

i. Choose the right sunscreen

Opt for sunscreens that are labeled as “non-comedogenic” or “non-greasy.” These formulas are less likely to migrate and irritate your eyes.

ii. Apply carefully

When applying sunscreen to your face, use small amounts and spread it gently. Avoid applying it too close to your eyes. Create a barrier around your eyes by leaving a small gap without sunscreen.

iii. Use a stick or roll-on sunscreen

Stick or roll-on sunscreens can provide better control over application, allowing you to avoid the eye area more effectively.

iv. Apply a mineral sunscreen

Mineral sunscreens with ingredients like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide tend to be less likely to migrate into the eyes compared to chemical sunscreens.

v. Wear a hat and sunglasses

Wearing a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses can provide additional protection to your eyes, reducing the likelihood of sunscreen reaching them.

vi. Avoid touching your face

Try not to touch your face after applying sunscreen, as this can transfer the sunscreen from your hands to your eyes.

vii. Reapply strategically

When reapplying sunscreen, gently wipe or wash your hands before touching your face. Apply the sunscreen to other areas first and then use a minimal amount around your eyes.

viii. Wait after application

Wait a few minutes after applying sunscreen before you start sweating or swimming. This gives the sunscreen time to adhere to your skin and reduce the chances of it running into your eyes.

ix. Blot excess sunscreen

If you notice excess sunscreen around your eyes, you can use a clean tissue or blotting paper to gently dab away the excess without rubbing.

x. Carry eye drops

In the event that sunscreen manages to make its way into your eyes, causing irritation, a practical solution is to keep a small, preservative-free eye drops bottle with you. These drops can be used to softly cleanse your eyes and ease any discomfort you might be feeling.

xi. Use waterproof sunscreen

If you know you’ll be sweating or swimming, consider using a waterproof or water-resistant sunscreen. While this won’t completely eliminate the risk of sunscreen getting into your eyes, it can help reduce the chances.

How to Get Sunscreen Out of Eyes – The Basic Ways 

Getting sunscreen in your eyes can be uncomfortable, but there are a few basic steps you can take to alleviate the discomfort. Here’s what you can do. 

Rinse with cold water

The most immediate thing you can do is rinse your eyes with cold water. Tilt your head back and use a gentle stream of cool, clean water to flush out the sunscreen from your eyes. You can use a cup or your clean hands to pour water over your eyes. Avoid using hot or warm water, as it can exacerbate the discomfort.

Use saline solution

If you have saline solution or sterile eye drops, you can use those to flush out your eyes as well. These solutions are designed to be gentle on your eyes and can help wash away the sunscreen particles.

Blink rapidly

Blinking rapidly can help your eyes produce tears, which will aid in flushing out the sunscreen. However, avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can potentially make the situation worse by spreading the sunscreen around and causing further irritation.

Gently wipe with a clean cloth

If the sunscreen has spread around your eyelids or lashes, you can use a clean, damp cloth to gently wipe away the sunscreen. Make sure the cloth is soft and clean to avoid further irritation.

Use artificial tears

If your eyes are still irritated after rinsing, you can use over-the-counter artificial tears to help soothe your eyes. These eye drops are designed to provide moisture and relief to dry or irritated eyes.

Seek medical attention

If the discomfort persists, your eyes become extremely red and irritated, or if you experience severe pain, it’s best to seek medical attention. An eye doctor can examine your eyes and provide appropriate treatment if necessary.

N. B: Remember, prevention is always better than dealing with the aftermath. To avoid getting sunscreen in your eyes in the future. 

• Apply sunscreen carefully around your face, paying special attention to the eye area. Be sure to use your fingers to spread the sunscreen evenly, so you can avoid accidentally getting it in your eyes.
• Use sunscreen sticks or balms for your face, as they can be easier to control near your eyes.
• Wear sunglasses with UV protection to shield your eyes and the surrounding skin from both the sun and accidental sunscreen contact.

If you continue to experience discomfort or if your eyes show signs of an adverse reaction, don’t hesitate to consult a medical professional.

How to Get Sunscreen out of Eyes – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 

1. Question: What should I do if sunscreen gets into my eyes? 

A: If sunscreen gets into your eyes, immediately flush your eyes with cool, clean water. Use a gentle stream of water or a saline solution to rinse your eyes thoroughly.

2. Question: Can I use eye drops to remove sunscreen from my eyes? 

A: Yes, you can use preservative-free artificial tears or lubricating eye drops to help rinse out sunscreen particles from your eyes. Make sure they are designed for use in eyes and don’t contain any active ingredients that might worsen the irritation.

3. Question: Is it safe to rub my eyes to remove sunscreen particles? 

A: It’s best to avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can potentially cause more irritation and spread the sunscreen further. Instead, focus on rinsing your eyes with water or using eye drops to help remove the particles.

4. Question: What if my eyes still feel irritated after rinsing? 

A: If your eyes continue to feel irritated after rinsing, consult a medical professional, such as an ophthalmologist. They can examine your eyes and provide appropriate guidance or treatment if needed.

5. Question: Can I use soap or shampoo to wash my eyes if sunscreen gets in them? 

A: No, it’s not recommended to use soap, shampoo, or any harsh substances in your eyes. Stick to using clean water or saline solution to rinse your eyes.

6. Question: How long should I rinse my eyes if sunscreen gets in them? 

A: Rinse your eyes for at least 15 minutes or until you feel relief. Keep your eyes open during rinsing to ensure the sunscreen particles are thoroughly washed out.

7. Question: Should I see a doctor if my eyes are still irritated after rinsing? 

A: If irritation persists or if you experience severe discomfort, redness, pain, blurred vision, or other concerning symptoms, it’s advisable to seek medical attention promptly.

8. Question: Can I prevent sunscreen from getting into my eyes in the first place? 

A: To prevent sunscreen from getting into your eyes, apply it carefully and avoid applying too close to your eye area. You can also consider using sunscreen sticks or formulas specifically designed for the face, which may be less likely to run into your eyes.

9. Question: Should I continue using the same sunscreen after it got in my eyes? 

A: If a particular sunscreen caused irritation or got into your eyes, consider using a different sunscreen for your face or applying it more carefully. It’s important to choose products that are suitable for your skin type and that won’t cause discomfort.

10. Question: Can I wear sunglasses to protect my eyes from sunscreen irritation? 

A: While sunglasses won’t prevent sunscreen from getting into your eyes, they can provide some protection from the sun and help shield your eyes from direct exposure to sunscreen-laden sweat.

To Wrap Up 

Getting sunscreen out of your eyes safely and effectively is a simple process that can prevent discomfort and potential eye damage. By following these steps, including rinsing the eyes with cool water or saline solution, using a damp cloth to gently wipe away any excess sunscreen, and avoiding rubbing or touching the eyes, you can easily remove the sunscreen without causing further irritation. 

Additionally, taking preventive measures such as applying sunscreen carefully around the eye area and wearing sunglasses can help reduce the likelihood of sunscreen getting into your eyes in the first place. Remember to always prioritize your eye health and take proper precautions when using sunscreen.