Your eyes water when wearing sunscreen primarily because certain chemical ingredients in the product can irritate the delicate eye area upon contact.
Common Irritants in Sunscreen
Certain chemical sunscreen ingredients are known culprits for causing eye discomfort. As stated in the reference, certain sunscreen ingredients, such as avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone, may cause stinging or unbearable burning sensations when they come in contact with your eyes.
When sunscreens containing these chemicals accidentally migrate into your eyes, they can trigger a defensive reaction. This reaction is your body's way of trying to flush out the irritant, leading to excessive tear production, or watery eyes.
Related Symptoms
Contact with irritating sunscreen ingredients can also cause other uncomfortable symptoms besides watering eyes. These reactions often result in:
- Redness
- Irritation
- Discomfort
How Sunscreen Gets into Your Eyes
Sunscreen doesn't always have to be applied directly to the eyelids to cause problems. It can get into your eyes in several ways:
- Sweating: As you sweat, sunscreen applied to your forehead or around your eyes can run down and into your eyes.
- Rubbing Eyes: Unintentionally rubbing your eyes after applying sunscreen can transfer the product.
- Improper Application: Applying sunscreen too close to the lash line or eyelids.
Tips to Prevent Eye Irritation
To minimize the chances of sunscreen irritating your eyes, consider these practical tips:
- Choose Mineral Sunscreens: Sunscreens containing mineral filters like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide are generally less irritating for the eyes compared to chemical filters. Look for products specifically labeled as "for sensitive skin" or "mineral-based."
- Apply Carefully: Avoid applying traditional chemical sunscreens directly to your eyelids or too close to the lower lash line.
- Use a Specific Product for the Eye Area: Some brands offer sunscreens formulated specifically for the face and eye area, which are less likely to sting.
- Consider a Sunscreen Stick: Sunscreen sticks can offer more precise application, making it easier to avoid the eye area.
- Wear Sunglasses and Hats: Physical barriers like sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats can help protect your eyes from direct sun exposure and also prevent sweat-diluted sunscreen from dripping into them.
- Blot, Don't Rub: If you need to manage sweat on your forehead, gently blot with a clean cloth or tissue rather than rubbing, which can spread sunscreen.
By being mindful of the ingredients in your sunscreen and how you apply it, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of experiencing watery, irritated eyes.
Summary of Potential Irritants & Effects
| Ingredient Type | Example Ingredients | Potential Eye Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Filters | Avobenzone, Octinoxate, Oxybenzone | Stinging, burning, watery eyes |
| Mineral Filters | Zinc Oxide, Titanium Dioxide | Generally less irritating for eyes |
