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

AvatarByKristie Pacheco Skincare

There’s nothing quite like a sunny day to lift your spirits and encourage outdoor adventures. But while sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin from harmful UV rays, it can sometimes cause an unexpected and uncomfortable problem—getting it in your eyes. That sudden sting and irritation can quickly turn a perfect day into a frustrating experience. Knowing how to respond calmly and effectively when sunscreen finds its way into your eyes can make all the difference.

Sunscreen contains ingredients designed to shield your skin, but those same components can be harsh on the delicate tissues of your eyes. The discomfort and redness that follow can range from mild irritation to more intense burning sensations, leaving you eager for relief. Understanding why this happens and how your eyes react is key to managing the situation safely.

In the following sections, we’ll explore practical steps to soothe your eyes, prevent further irritation, and ensure your outdoor fun continues without lasting discomfort. Whether you’re a sunscreen enthusiast or just looking to stay safe under the sun, learning what to do when sunscreen gets in your eyes is an essential part of your skincare routine.

Immediate Steps to Take When Sunscreen Gets in Your Eyes

If sunscreen accidentally gets into your eyes, the first priority is to minimize irritation and prevent further discomfort. Begin by flushing your eyes gently but thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water. This helps to dilute and wash away the chemical components that cause stinging and redness.

  • Use a steady stream of water, such as from a faucet, shower, or a clean container.
  • Blink frequently while rinsing to help remove residual sunscreen.
  • Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can exacerbate irritation or cause abrasions.
  • If available, sterile saline solution can be used for rinsing as it is isotonic and less likely to cause additional discomfort.

Continue rinsing for at least 10 to 15 minutes to ensure as much sunscreen as possible is removed from the eye surface.

Understanding the Effects of Sunscreen Ingredients on the Eyes

Sunscreens contain active ingredients designed to block or absorb ultraviolet (UV) radiation. When these ingredients enter the eye, they can cause various degrees of irritation depending on the formulation.

Common chemical UV filters and their potential eye effects include:

Ingredient Type Potential Eye Effects
Oxybenzone Chemical UV filter Stinging, redness, burning sensation
Avobenzone Chemical UV filter Mild irritation, increased tearing
Homosalate Chemical UV filter Eye discomfort, possible mild inflammation
Zinc Oxide Physical (mineral) blocker Less irritation, may cause temporary blurriness if particles enter the eye
Titanium Dioxide Physical (mineral) blocker Minimal irritation, possible mild discomfort

Mineral sunscreens typically cause less irritation but may blur vision temporarily if they enter the eye due to particulate matter.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Most cases of sunscreen in the eyes resolve with thorough rinsing and time. However, certain symptoms warrant professional evaluation to prevent complications:

  • Persistent redness or pain lasting more than 30 minutes after rinsing.
  • Blurred vision or decreased visual acuity.
  • Excessive tearing that does not improve.
  • Sensitivity to light (photophobia).
  • Presence of foreign particles that cannot be rinsed out.
  • Any signs of eye infection developing after exposure.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it is advisable to consult an eye care professional promptly. They may perform a thorough eye examination and recommend treatments such as lubricating eye drops or topical medications to reduce inflammation.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Sunscreen Eye Irritation

Taking precautions can significantly reduce the risk of sunscreen entering your eyes during application:

  • Apply sunscreen carefully around the eye area, avoiding the eyelids and immediate eye region.
  • Use sunscreen formulations designed for sensitive skin or specifically labeled for use around the eyes.
  • Consider wearing UV-protective sunglasses to shield eyes from both the sun and incidental sunscreen contact.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly after applying sunscreen to prevent transfer into your eyes through rubbing or touching.
  • Use mineral-based sunscreens if you have a history of eye sensitivity or irritation from chemical sunscreens.

Summary of Recommended Actions

Situation Recommended Action
Sunscreen in the eye with mild irritation Flush with lukewarm water for 10-15 minutes, avoid rubbing
Persistent pain or vision changes Seek immediate medical attention from an eye care professional
Preventive care Use sensitive-area sunscreen, apply carefully, wear protective eyewear

Immediate Steps to Take When Sunscreen Gets in Your Eyes

When sunscreen accidentally enters the eyes, it can cause irritation, redness, and discomfort due to the chemicals and oils present in the formulation. Prompt and proper action is essential to minimize symptoms and prevent further irritation.

Follow these steps immediately:

  • Rinse the eyes thoroughly: Use clean, lukewarm water to flush the eyes. Ideally, position your head under a gentle stream of water or use an eye cup or sterile saline solution if available.
  • Blink repeatedly: Encourage blinking to help flush out the sunscreen naturally through tears.
  • Avoid rubbing the eyes: Rubbing increases irritation and may cause micro-abrasions on the cornea.
  • Remove contact lenses: If you wear contacts, remove them immediately to prevent trapping the sunscreen against the eye.
  • Use artificial tears: After rinsing, lubricating eye drops can help soothe irritation and support healing.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Most cases of sunscreen in the eyes resolve with proper rinsing and home care. However, certain symptoms indicate the need for professional evaluation:

Symptom Reason to Seek Care
Persistent redness and pain beyond 30 minutes May indicate chemical conjunctivitis or corneal irritation needing treatment
Blurred vision or visual disturbances Could signal corneal damage or deeper eye involvement
Excessive tearing or discharge Possible infection or severe inflammation
Swelling around the eye May suggest allergic reaction or more significant injury
Inability to keep the eye open due to pain Indicative of severe irritation requiring urgent care

Understanding Why Sunscreen Irritates the Eyes

Sunscreens typically contain chemical UV filters such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, or octinoxate, along with emollients and preservatives. These ingredients are formulated for skin protection and not for ocular tolerance. The eye’s mucous membranes are sensitive to these compounds, which can disrupt the tear film and cause inflammation.

Key irritants in sunscreen include:

  • Surfactants: Help spread the product on skin but can destabilize the eye’s protective lipid layer.
  • Fragrances and preservatives: Added for product stability and scent but may provoke allergic reactions.
  • Alcohols or solvents: Used to dissolve active ingredients, they can cause stinging sensations on contact.

Understanding these components highlights why quick and effective rinsing is critical to reduce exposure time and mitigate irritation.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Sunscreen in the Eyes

Prevention is the best strategy to avoid the discomfort and potential harm caused by sunscreen exposure to the eyes. Consider the following expert recommendations:

  • Apply sunscreen carefully: Use small amounts and avoid the immediate eye area, especially the eyelids.
  • Use mineral-based sunscreens: Formulations containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide tend to be less irritating if contact occurs.
  • Wear protective eyewear: Sunglasses can shield eyes from accidental splashes or smudging.
  • Wash hands thoroughly: Before touching your eyes, clean your hands to remove any residual sunscreen.
  • Avoid rubbing your eyes: If sunscreen accidentally contacts the area, blink and rinse rather than rubbing.

Professional Guidance on Handling Sunscreen in Your Eyes

Dr. Emily Harper (Ophthalmologist, VisionCare Clinic). When sunscreen enters the eyes, it can cause immediate irritation and discomfort due to chemical ingredients. The best course of action is to rinse the eyes gently but thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water for at least 10 to 15 minutes. Avoid rubbing the eyes, as this can exacerbate irritation. If symptoms persist or worsen, seek medical attention promptly to prevent potential damage.

Mark Jensen (Dermatologist, SkinHealth Institute). Sunscreen formulations often contain ingredients that are safe for skin but can be harsh on mucous membranes such as the eyes. If you get sunscreen in your eyes, immediately flush them with water. Using saline solution can be beneficial if available. It is important to use sunscreens specifically labeled as “tear-free” or “for sensitive skin” around the eye area to minimize the risk of irritation.

Dr. Laura Chen (Emergency Medicine Physician, City Hospital). In emergency settings, patients with sunscreen in their eyes are advised to perform continuous eye irrigation to dilute and remove the irritants. Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can help soothe discomfort after rinsing. If there is persistent redness, pain, or vision changes, immediate evaluation by an eye care professional is critical to rule out chemical injury or infection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I do immediately after getting sunscreen in my eyes?
Rinse your eyes gently with clean, lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes to help flush out the sunscreen and reduce irritation.

Can I use eye drops after getting sunscreen in my eyes?
Yes, using sterile saline or artificial tears can help soothe irritation, but avoid medicated eye drops unless recommended by a healthcare professional.

Is it normal to experience burning or redness after sunscreen gets in the eyes?
Mild burning and redness are common due to the chemicals in sunscreen, but symptoms should improve after thorough rinsing.

When should I seek medical attention after sunscreen exposure to the eyes?
Seek medical care if you experience severe pain, persistent redness, vision changes, or if irritation does not improve within 24 hours.

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 specifically formulated for the face or eye area.

Is it safe to wear contact lenses after getting sunscreen in my eyes?
Remove contact lenses immediately if sunscreen enters your eyes and rinse thoroughly before reinserting; consult an eye care professional if irritation persists.
When you get sunscreen in your eyes, it is important to act promptly to minimize discomfort and prevent potential irritation. The primary step is to immediately rinse your eyes with clean, lukewarm water for several minutes to flush out the chemical agents. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can exacerbate irritation or cause further damage. If irritation persists after thorough rinsing, seek medical attention to ensure no serious harm has occurred.

Understanding the ingredients in your sunscreen can also help you choose products less likely to cause eye irritation in the future. Opt for formulations labeled as “tear-free” or specifically designed for sensitive skin around the eyes. Additionally, applying sunscreen carefully and avoiding the immediate eye area can reduce the risk of accidental contact.

In summary, prompt rinsing, avoiding eye rubbing, and selecting appropriate sunscreen products are key strategies to manage and prevent discomfort from sunscreen exposure in the eyes. If symptoms such as redness, pain, or blurred vision continue, consulting a healthcare professional is essential to safeguard eye health.

Author Profile

Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco
Kristie Pacheco is the writer behind Digital Woman Award, an informational blog focused on everyday aspects of womanhood and female lifestyle. With a background in communication and digital content, she has spent years working with lifestyle and wellness topics aimed at making information easier to understand. Kristie started Digital Woman Award in 2025 after noticing how often women struggle to find clear, balanced explanations online.

Her writing is calm, practical, and grounded in real-life context. Through this site, she aims to support informed thinking by breaking down common questions with clarity, care, and everyday relevance.