Do you dread the idea of sunscreen getting in your eyes? You’re not alone! Sunglasses are essential for protecting our vision from UV rays, but accidents do happen. Putting too much sunscreen on or applying it wrong can easily lead to tiny particles entering the eye, causing pain and discomfort. Luckily, there are some easy steps that you can take to help get the sunscreen out of your eyes quickly and effectively so that you can enjoy the rest of your day worry-free. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to get sunscreen out of eyes as well as tips for preventing future stains.

No one likes to get sunscreen in their eyes; not only does it hurt, but a stinging sensation can be quite frightening. Fortunately, for those of us who accidentally get sunscreen near our eyes there is hope: with the right knowledge and supplies on hand, you can easily remove the sunblock and soothe any pain or discomfort that comes along with it. Here we’ll explore all of your options when it comes to removing sunscreen from your eyes—including treatments that you may never have heard of before—as well as offer some advice on how to avoid getting irritating chemicals in your eyes again.
Why is It Important to Get Sunscreen Out of Eyes?
1. To Avoid Eye Damage
One of the main reasons to remove sunscreen from the eyes is to avoid eye damage. Sunscreen contains chemicals that can cause irritation, redness, and burning in the eyes if left unchecked. These can lead to more serious issues like corneal erosion or inflammation of the eyelid. Additionally, exposure to UV rays can contribute to vision problems such as cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
2. To Improve Comfort and Functioning
It is also important to remove sunscreen from the eyes for comfort and functioning purposes. Sunscreen that gets into the eyes can cause a burning sensation, blurred vision, and even temporary blindness if left in place for a long period of time. This can make it difficult to perform everyday tasks such as driving, reading, and working on a computer.
3. To Prevent Skin and Eye Disease
Finally, getting sunscreen out of the eyes is important to prevent skin and eye diseases. Sunscreen can contain ingredients that can be absorbed into the skin or into the bloodstream if left in contact with the eyes for long periods of time. This can increase the risk of developing skin cancer, as well as other diseases such as conjunctivitis and corneal abrasion.
Now that you understand why it’s important to remove sunscreen from the eyes let’s look at how to do it safely and effectively.
10 Tips On How to Get Sunscreen Out of Eyes
1. Use a Clean, Wet Cloth to Gently Wipe Away Excess Sunscreen
This is the first thing to do if you’ve gotten sunscreen in your eyes. Gently wipe away any excess sunscreen using a clean, wet cloth. This will help remove the product from your eyes and minimize irritation.

2. Flush Your Eyes with Cold Water
Running cold water over your eyelids can help flush out any remaining sunscreen particles that may be causing discomfort. If you have access to a sink, let the water run over your face while holding your eyes open.
3. Use Artificial Tears or Eye Drops
If you don’t have access to a sink, using artificial tears or eye drops can help flush out any remaining sunscreen particles that may still be irritating your eyes. Be sure to read the instructions on the product before applying it to your eyes.
4. Take an Over-the-Counter Anti-Inflammatory
Taking an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help reduce inflammation and discomfort if you’re in pain due to sunscreen in your eyes. Never exceed the recommended dosage on the label.
5. Try a Cold Compress
If your eyes are still irritated after flushing them with cold water, try placing a cold compress over them for a few minutes to decrease any discomfort that may be present. It will also help reduce inflammation.

6. if You’re Wearing Contact Lenses, Remove Them Immediately
This is very important if you’ve gotten sunscreen in your eyes. Contact lenses can trap particles from the sunscreen, which will only make the irritation worse. Remove them immediately and throw away disposable contact lenses that have been exposed to sunscreen.
7. Avoid Rubbing or Scrubbing Your Eyes
Rubbing or scrubbing your eyes may seem like a good idea to get the sunscreen out, but it can actually make the irritation worse. The rubbing motion can cause particles of sunscreen to become embedded in your eyes, leading to more discomfort.
8. Rinse Your Eye Makeup Off If You Wore Any
If you were wearing any eyeliner or mascara when you got sunscreen in your eyes, be sure to rinse it off with cold water. This will help remove any remaining particles of sunscreen that may have become trapped in the makeup.
9. Visit Your Eye Doctor if Symptoms Persist
If your eyes are still irritated or red after taking these steps, it’s best to visit your eye doctor for further evaluation and treatment. They can prescribe medication or use a specially formulated eyewash to help remove any remaining sunscreen particles.
10. Wear Sunscreen That is Formulated for Use Around the Eyes
To prevent getting sunscreen in your eyes, it’s best to wear a product that is specifically designed for use around the eyes. These types of sunscreens will have ingredients that won’t irritate your eyes if they get exposed to the product. Be sure to read the ingredients list and buy a sunscreen that is labeled as safe for use around the eyes.

Following these tips can help you quickly and easily remove sunscreen from your eyes, preventing any further discomfort or irritation. Remember to always wear sunglasses when outdoors to protect your eyes from the sun’s damaging UV rays and wear sunscreen designed for use around your eyes. This can help avoid any further issues with getting sunscreen in your eyes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Precautions Should I Take When Applying Sunscreen Around My Eyes?
When applying sunscreen around the eyes, it is important to be gentle. Avoid getting too close to the eyes and avoid rubbing or pushing any cream or lotion onto them. Instead, lightly dab the sunscreen around the eye area. It is also important to read sunscreen labels carefully and make sure that the sunscreen is suitable for use around the eyes.
How Can I Get Sunscreen Out of My Eyes?
If you get sunscreen in your eyes, do not rub them. This will only irritate the delicate eye tissue. Instead, flush the area with clean water and gently try to remove any residue from the eyelashes or lids using a Q-tip. If the irritation persists, seek medical help.
What Other Tips Should I Keep in Mind When Applying Sunscreen Around My Eyes?
Always apply sunscreen at least 15 minutes before you go out into direct sunlight and make sure to reapply it every two hours for maximum protection. It is also important to wear protective sunglasses that are rated for ultraviolet protection. These sunglasses will help to shield your eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays. Lastly, it is important to remember that sunscreen does not provide 100% protection and should be used in combination with other protective measures such as hats and long sleeves when spending prolonged periods of time in direct sunlight.
How Many Sunscreens Should I Use Around My Eyes?
When applying sunscreen around the eyes, it is important to use only a small amount. A pea-sized amount should be enough to cover the entire eye area and protect it from sun damage. Overuse of sunscreen can lead to irritation and may not provide any additional protection.
Can I Apply Sunscreen to My Lips?
Yes, sunscreen can also be applied to the lips. It is important to use a lip balm or stick with SPF protection in order to protect the delicate skin of the lips from sun damage. Make sure to reapply after eating and drinking as well as every two hours for maximum protection. Also, be sure to read the labels carefully and make sure that the lip balm is suitable for use around the lips.

Conclusion
Taking good care of our eyes is essential for keeping them healthy. Hopefully, by now you understand the importance of wearing sunscreen and how to get sunscreen out of eyes. If you have gotten sunscreen in your eyes, it’s important to flush irritated eyes with lukewarm water for 15 to 20 minutes or until relief comes.
You can also use artificial tears to help reduce redness and soothe eyes that are irritated by sunscreen. Many of these solutions are simple, but they can be very helpful if you find yourself in this situation again. With effort and attention, you’ll be on your way back to enjoying life under the sun!
About the Author
Jane Hubbard is a passionate beauty expert with a wealth of experience in makeup, hair, and overall beauty techniques. After years of working as a hairdresser specialist, she followed her entrepreneurial spirit and started her own consultancy business.
Jane has always been driven by her desire to help others feel confident in their own skin, and she does this by sharing her knowledge, experiences, and practical beauty tips. Through her consultancy, she empowers individuals to embrace their unique beauty, offering tailored guidance that boosts both self-esteem and personal style.
Professional Focus
- Specializes in makeup, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Provides personalized beauty advice, tips, and techniques to help individuals feel confident in their appearance.
- Dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest industry trends and developments.
- Passionate about creating a comfortable and empowering experience for every client.
Education History
- University of Craft and Design – Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Woodworking and Furniture Design
- Woodworking Apprenticeships – Extensive hands-on training with skilled craftsmen to refine carpentry and furniture making techniques
- Online Courses & Masterclasses – Continued education in advanced woodworking techniques, design principles, and specialized tools
Expertise:
- Makeup artistry, hairstyling, and beauty consulting.
- Personalized beauty techniques to enhance confidence and self-expression.
- Educating clients on how to maintain their beauty routines at home.