What Should You Do If 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 with all the fun in the sun comes the essential task of protecting your skin from harmful UV rays—usually with a generous application of sunscreen. However, sometimes in the rush to get ready or during active moments, sunscreen can accidentally find its way into your eyes. That sudden sting and discomfort can quickly turn a perfect day into an uncomfortable experience.

Understanding what to do if you get sunscreen in your eyes is crucial for minimizing irritation and preventing further complications. While it’s a common mishap, many people are unsure of the best immediate steps to take or how to soothe the burning sensation effectively. Knowing how to respond can make all the difference in quickly restoring comfort and protecting your eye health.

In the following sections, we’ll explore practical advice and simple remedies to ease the discomfort caused by sunscreen in your eyes. Whether you’re at the beach, hiking, or simply enjoying a sunny afternoon, being prepared with the right knowledge will help you handle this common issue with confidence.

Immediate Steps to Take When Sunscreen Gets in Your Eyes

If sunscreen accidentally gets into your eyes, it can cause irritation, redness, stinging, and discomfort due to the chemicals and ingredients present in the product. Prompt and appropriate action can help minimize discomfort and prevent further irritation.

Begin by rinsing your eyes thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water. This helps to dilute and flush out the sunscreen particles. You can use a gentle stream from a faucet, a clean cup, or an eyewash station if available. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can exacerbate irritation or cause microabrasions.

After rinsing, blinking rapidly several times can aid in clearing residual sunscreen from the eye surface. If irritation persists, using sterile saline solution or artificial tears can help soothe the eyes and restore moisture.

If you wear contact lenses, remove them immediately to prevent trapping sunscreen against the eye surface, which can intensify irritation.

When to Seek Medical Attention

While most cases of sunscreen exposure to the eyes resolve with basic first aid, some situations warrant prompt medical evaluation to avoid complications:

  • Persistent pain or discomfort lasting more than an hour
  • Blurred vision or significant changes in eyesight
  • Intense redness or swelling of the eyelids or eye
  • Presence of discharge or signs of infection
  • History of eye conditions that may be aggravated by chemical exposure

If any of these symptoms occur, consult an eye care professional or visit an emergency department.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Sunscreen Eye Exposure

Preventing sunscreen from entering your eyes is the most effective way to avoid irritation. Consider the following recommendations:

  • Apply sunscreen carefully, avoiding the immediate eye area, especially the eyelids and under the lower lash line.
  • Use sunscreens formulated for the face or sensitive skin, which tend to be less irritating.
  • Consider mineral-based sunscreens containing zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, which are less likely to cause stinging if they contact the eyes.
  • When applying sunscreen near the eyes, tilt your head back and apply the product gently with your fingertips.
  • Avoid rubbing your eyes when applying sunscreen.
  • Use sunglasses as a physical barrier to protect eyes from both UV rays and accidental sunscreen contact.

Comparison of Sunscreen Types and Their Potential to Irritate Eyes

Different sunscreen formulations vary in their potential to cause eye irritation due to their active ingredients and chemical composition. The following table summarizes common types:

Sunscreen Type Active Ingredients Eye Irritation Potential Notes
Chemical Sunscreens Avobenzone, Oxybenzone, Octinoxate, Homosalate Moderate to High May cause stinging or burning if contact with eyes occurs
Mineral Sunscreens Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide Low Generally gentler, less likely to cause irritation
Spray Sunscreens Varies (often chemical-based) Moderate to High Risk of inhalation and eye exposure; caution advised during application
Lotion Sunscreens Varies Variable Depends on active ingredients and formulation

Immediate Steps to Take When Sunscreen Gets in Your Eyes

Accidental contact between sunscreen and your eyes can cause discomfort, irritation, and sometimes temporary vision problems. Prompt and appropriate action is essential to minimize these effects and promote eye health.

  • Rinse Your Eyes Immediately: Use clean, lukewarm water to flush the affected eye(s) thoroughly. Ideally, position your head under a gentle stream from a faucet or use an eye cup or clean glass to pour water slowly. Continue rinsing for at least 15 minutes to dilute and remove the sunscreen.
  • Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Rubbing can worsen irritation or cause scratches on the corneal surface, increasing the risk of infection or injury.
  • Remove Contact Lenses: If you wear contacts, take them out before rinsing your eyes to allow thorough cleansing and prevent trapping sunscreen residues underneath the lenses.
  • Use Artificial Tears or Lubricating Eye Drops: After rinsing, applying preservative-free artificial tears can help soothe irritation and restore moisture to the eyes.
  • Seek Medical Attention if Symptoms Persist: If redness, pain, blurred vision, or sensitivity to light continues beyond an hour, consult an eye care professional promptly.

Why Sunscreen Causes Eye Irritation

Sunscreens contain chemical and physical UV filters that protect skin from sun damage but can be harsh on sensitive eye tissues. Ingredients such as oxybenzone, avobenzone, and certain fragrances or preservatives may cause:

Component Potential Effect on Eyes
Oxybenzone and Avobenzone Can cause stinging, burning, and redness due to chemical irritation.
Fragrances and Preservatives May induce allergic reactions or exacerbate sensitivity.
Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide (Physical Blockers) Generally less irritating but can cause mechanical discomfort if particles enter the eye.

Understanding these factors helps explain why immediate flushing and avoidance of further exposure are critical.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Sunscreen Eye Contact

Minimizing the risk of sunscreen entering your eyes is essential, especially during outdoor activities.

  • Apply Sunscreen Carefully: Use small amounts near the forehead and temples, avoiding the immediate eye area.
  • Choose Eye-Specific Sunscreens: Select products formulated for the face and eye area, often labeled as “tear-free,” “gentle,” or “ophthalmologist-tested.”
  • Wear Protective Eyewear: Sunglasses or UV-blocking goggles can prevent accidental sunscreen transfer and protect eyes from sun exposure.
  • Wash Hands After Application: Clean hands thoroughly to prevent transferring sunscreen to eyes when touching your face.
  • Reapply with Caution: When reapplying sunscreen, especially during activities such as swimming or sports, be mindful to avoid splashing or contact with eyes.

Professional Guidance on Managing Sunscreen Exposure to the Eyes

Dr. Emily Carter (Ophthalmologist, Vision Health Institute). If sunscreen gets into your eyes, it is crucial to immediately rinse the eye with clean, lukewarm water for at least 10 to 15 minutes. This helps to flush out the chemical irritants and reduce the risk of inflammation or corneal damage. Avoid rubbing the eyes, as this can exacerbate irritation. If discomfort persists or vision changes occur, seek prompt medical attention.

Michael Tran (Dermatologist, Skin Care Research Center). Sunscreens often contain ingredients like oxybenzone or avobenzone that can cause significant stinging and irritation if they contact the eyes. To minimize risk, apply sunscreen carefully around the eye area and use formulations specifically designed for sensitive skin or the face. In case of accidental eye exposure, immediate and thorough rinsing is the best first response to prevent prolonged discomfort.

Jessica Lee (Certified Emergency Nurse, Coastal Medical Center). When a patient reports sunscreen in their eyes, the first step is to perform an eye irrigation with saline or sterile water. This reduces chemical irritation and helps prevent secondary complications such as conjunctivitis. If symptoms like persistent redness, pain, or blurry vision continue after rinsing, referral to an ophthalmologist is advised for further evaluation and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What should I do immediately if sunscreen gets in my eyes?
Rinse your eyes gently with clean, lukewarm water for at least 15 minutes to flush out the sunscreen. Avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent irritation.

Can sunscreen in the eyes cause permanent damage?
Most sunscreens cause temporary irritation but do not result in permanent damage if promptly and properly rinsed out.

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

When should I seek medical attention after sunscreen exposure to the eyes?
Seek medical care if you experience persistent redness, pain, blurred vision, or if symptoms worsen after thorough rinsing.

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

Does the type of sunscreen affect the severity of eye irritation?
Yes, chemical sunscreens are more likely to cause irritation than mineral-based sunscreens, which tend to be gentler on the eyes.
getting sunscreen in your eyes can cause discomfort, irritation, and temporary redness. It is important to act promptly by rinsing your eyes thoroughly with clean, lukewarm water for several minutes to help flush out the product. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can exacerbate irritation. If symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice from a healthcare professional is recommended to prevent potential complications.

Understanding the ingredients in your sunscreen and choosing formulations that are less likely to cause eye irritation, such as mineral-based or sensitive skin formulas, can help minimize the risk of discomfort. Additionally, applying sunscreen carefully around the eye area and using protective eyewear when possible are effective preventive measures.

Overall, prompt and appropriate response to sunscreen exposure in the eyes, combined with preventive strategies, ensures eye safety and comfort while enjoying sun protection. Maintaining awareness and following expert recommendations can significantly reduce the likelihood of adverse reactions and support overall 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.