Sunscreen burning your eyes? Start with formulation and application.
Eye stinging does not mean sun protection is optional. Often the better solution is to change the product or the way it is applied around the eye area.
Why the eye area can be difficult
The eyelid and periocular skin are delicate, and products can migrate toward the ocular surface with sweating, rubbing or normal movement. Fragrance or other ingredients may also irritate sensitive skin around the eyes.
Persistent redness, swelling, rash, pain, discharge or visual symptoms should not be treated as a simple cosmetic-product problem; those findings warrant appropriate medical evaluation.
A stick can reduce migration around the eyes
The American Academy of Dermatology specifically suggests a broad-spectrum, water-resistant SPF 30 or higher sunscreen stick around the eyes to help reduce sunscreen dripping into them. For people whose skin stings or burns with sunscreen, the AAD also notes that mineral-only formulas containing zinc oxide and titanium dioxide may be better tolerated.
Use broad-spectrum SPF 30 or higher.
Consider a water-resistant stick near the eye area.
Avoid rubbing sunscreen directly into the eyes.
If a product repeatedly causes irritation, stop using that specific product and choose a better-tolerated alternative.
Do not solve irritation by skipping sunscreen
Sun protection remains important for reducing sunburn, premature photoaging and skin-cancer risk. The goal is to find a formulation and application method you can use consistently rather than abandoning sunscreen because one product stings.
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