Which sunscreen should you use if your eyes sting easily?

What should you look for on the label?

• Choose SPF 30 or higher.
• Look for broad spectrum protection, which covers both UVA and UVB rays.
• Choose water resistance, particularly for sweating or swimming.
• Check that the sunscreen filters listed under "Active Ingredients" are zinc oxide, titanium dioxide, or both.
• Avoid fragrance. If your skin is sensitive or prone to allergies, also avoid parabens and oxybenzone.

A stick gives you more control over where sunscreen goes, which is a useful job for packaging to have. You can use a stick around your eyes even if you prefer another sunscreen format for the rest of your face.3

Why does sunscreen sting your eyes?

Sunscreen getting into the eye and sunscreen irritating the skin around it are different problems. Chemical sunscreens can burn when they get into your eyes. If the surrounding skin stings when you apply sunscreen, choose only mineral filters and avoid fragrance. Mineral formulas are generally better tolerated by sensitive skin, but the rest of the formula still matters: fragrances and preservatives can cause allergic reactions.145

Expect some mineral sunscreens to feel thicker and take more effort to spread than chemical formulas. They can also leave a white cast, especially on darker skin tones; a tint that matches your skin tone can help. Mineral sunscreen protects mainly by absorbing ultraviolet radiation, not simply by acting as a reflective shield.146

How should you apply sunscreen around your eyes?

1. 1Apply sunscreen to dry skin 15 minutes before going outdoors. Include the skin around your eyes rather than leaving it unprotected.
2. 2Keep sunscreen on the skin, not in the eye. Most sunscreens can be used on and around the eyelids, but this delicate area needs careful application.
3. 3Use enough sunscreen for your whole face. The general facial amount is at least one teaspoon; that is not an amount to apply to the eyelids alone.
4. 4Reapply around your eyes as well as the rest of your exposed skin approximately every two hours outdoors, and after swimming or sweating, following the product directions.
5. 5Add sunglasses with UV protection and a broad brimmed hat. Sunscreen alone does not fully protect you.

Do you need a separate eye sunscreen?

You do not need a dedicated eye product just to protect the eyelid skin. Eye area options include tinted mineral powders and tinted cream concealers with SPF. An SPF concealer can do two jobs, but the second job still comes with directions. SPF cosmetics need reapplication outdoors too. For a cosmetic used near your eyes, choose one intended for that area, wash your hands before applying it and keep applicators clean.237

What if sunscreen gets into your eyes or causes a rash?

If sunscreen gets into your eye, flush the eye with water as soon as possible. If an SPF eye cosmetic causes irritation, stop using it immediately and see a doctor if the irritation persists. Avoid eye cosmetics while the surrounding skin is inflamed or you have an eye infection; wait until the area has healed.37

A rash where sunscreen was applied can be allergic contact dermatitis, a skin reaction to an ingredient. Stinging alone does not identify an allergy or its cause. For repeated skin reactions, a dermatologist can investigate with patch testing and, when appropriate, testing that includes light exposure. If an allergy is identified, avoid products containing that ingredient rather than switching brands without checking the formula.5