Eye cream with SPF: What to use and how to apply it

What does an eye cream with SPF actually do?

An eye cream moisturizes the surrounding skin; sunscreen protects it from ultraviolet radiation, usually shortened to UV. A combined product offers both functions. An eye cream and a sunscreen do different jobs, even when the packaging gives both an executive title. Moisturizing ingredients are not a substitute for a stated SPF rating.34

SPF mainly measures protection against UVB, the rays responsible for sunburn. Broad spectrum protection covers UVA as well as UVB. UVA contributes to skin aging and darkening, and can pass through window glass. Protecting the eye area is therefore about preventing further sun damage, not just avoiding a visibly red patch after a day outdoors. Sunscreen is not a treatment for every cause of dark circles or puffiness.4

What should you look for on the label?

• Choose SPF 30 or higher and broad spectrum protection against UVA and UVB.
• Choose water resistance, especially for swimming or sweating.
• For sensitive skin, consider a mineral sunscreen containing zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or both.
• Read the product's application directions, including any restrictions around the eyes.
• Check the expiry date rather than keeping an old tube indefinitely.

For UK sunscreen labels, look for SPF 30 or higher and at least four star UVA protection. UVA inside a circle indicates that the product meets the EU standard. The SPF number and the UVA marking describe different protection, so check both rather than choosing by the largest number on the tube.5

Eye cream, facial sunscreen or sunscreen stick?

Start with a suitable facial sunscreen if you want fewer products. Consider a stick if controlling the application is easier that way, or an eye specific product if you prefer its texture. Mineral formulas are a sensible starting point for sensitive skin, but no formula can promise that your eyes will never sting. An SPF concealer can combine coverage and sun protection, which is one of the rare occasions when makeup has a second job.12

How do you apply SPF around your eyes?

1. 1Wash your face with a gentle cleanser and gently pat it dry.
2. 2Apply any prescribed skin medication or treatment after cleansing, following its own directions.
3. 3Apply your moisturizer or separate eye cream if you use one. Use your ring finger for cream around the eyes to avoid pulling hard on the delicate skin.
4. 4Apply sunscreen to dry skin, including exposed skin around the eyes where the product directions allow. Keep sunscreen out of the eyes.
5. 5Apply makeup after moisturizer and sunscreen.
6. 6Put on UV blocking sunglasses and a hat before heading outside.

Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going outdoors. For outings long enough to risk burning, UK guidance advises applying it 30 minutes before leaving and again just before going out. Follow the product's directions and allow time for application rather than waiting until you are already in the sun.25

A thin cosmetic dab should not be treated as full sunscreen coverage: applying sunscreen too thinly reduces its protection. Apply it to all exposed facial skin, not only the patch you want to moisturize. There is no separate universal eye area dose here; use the amount and coverage instructions for your chosen product.5

Do you need to reapply an SPF eye cream?

Yes. Reapply approximately every two hours outdoors, and after swimming or sweating, following the label. SPF in moisturizer or makeup follows the same reapplication rule. Water resistant does not mean waterproof, and a higher SPF does not last longer. Reapply after towel drying or when sunscreen has rubbed off, too. A morning application under makeup is not protection for an entire afternoon outdoors.25

Does CeraVe Skin Renewing Eye Cream contain SPF?

CeraVe Skin Renewing Eye Cream on the US site is an eye moisturizer, not an SPF eye cream. Its formula includes ceramides, hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, caffeine and peptides. CeraVe tells you to use it after cleansing, before facial serum or moisturizer, morning and night, and to finish the daytime routine with an SPF moisturizer. The separate Skin Renewing Day Cream with SPF 30 is not the same product.3

CeraVe directs you to dot Skin Renewing Eye Cream around the eye contour and gently blend across the under eye area, crow's feet, eyelids and brow bones until absorbed. Those directions belong to that eye cream; they are not permission to apply every facial product to your eyelids. The cream is intended to hydrate and improve the appearance of lines, puffiness and dark circles with continued use, without a stated number of weeks for results.3

What if sunscreen gets in your eyes?

Flush the eye with water as soon as possible. Avoid further direct contact with the product. Do not spray sunscreen around or near your face or mouth. If you have concerns about caring for sensitive eye area skin, speak with a dermatologist. For eczema prone skin, CeraVe advises checking with your dermatologist before first using its Skin Renewing Eye Cream.1236

Does SPF replace sunglasses?

No. Sunscreen protects the surrounding skin; sunglasses help protect the eyes themselves. Look for UV400 or 99 to 100 percent protection against UVA and UVB. Choose frames that stay in place, cover the skin around your eyes and limit light entering from the sides, top and bottom. Wraparound styles are useful near reflective surfaces such as water, sand and snow.7

Some contact lenses block UV, but they leave parts of the eyes and surrounding skin uncovered. Wear UV blocking sunglasses over them. A broad brimmed hat adds shade and reduces glare. Expensive sunglasses are not automatically more protective than cheaper pairs; the UV marking and fit are what matter.7