At first the sunscreen sits comfortably on the skin, but later the eyes water. Sometimes product gets in when you apply lotion, sometimes when you sweat or when a hand wipes your face. The unpleasant feeling is a good reason to take a closer look at the application and product selection. By itself, it does not prove an allergy to a specific ingredient.

If there is already product in the eye

Start rinsing immediately: plenty of clean, not hot water, with a gentle jet of water and without rubbing. The specialist poison control service Poison Control recommends rinsing for 15 to 20 minutes for such contacts. Blinking helps distribute the water. Also pay attention to the instructions on the product packaging.

For now, do not wear contact lenses or eye makeup while the eye is irritated. If you experience severe pain or changes in your vision, you need medical help immediately. Persistent symptoms should also be clarified. This advice is in line with NHS advice for eye irritation and injury . Further trying out a cream is not a suitable solution here.

Take a closer look for the next application

Sunscreen belongs on the skin and not in the eyes. Note whether the instructions indicate application to the eye area and avoid direct contact with the eyes and the edge of the eyelids. A spray is not sprayed directly onto the face. For products that resonate with you, a different format may be worth trying. However, even a stick is no guarantee against burning.

A small observation is helpful: Does the burning start immediately when applying lotion or only when exercising? Was the same product pleasant before? Such information is more useful than simply sorting out all UV filters in a group. Our article on the right sunscreen for your everyday life provides an overview of textures and selection criteria.

If you are looking for a sunscreen without added perfume, the following product is interesting: SKIN1004 Madagascar Centella Hyalu-Cica Water-Fit Sun Serum SPF50+ PA++++ . There is no perfume or fragrance in the published INCI. This is a verifiable characteristic, but not proof of eye compatibility. Even a formula without these entries can irritate the eye.

If your skin reacts quickly overall, you can find further guidance in the care of sensitive skin . Additionally protect your eyes with well-fitting sunglasses with UV protection and a hat. This means you don’t have to keep using an irritating sunscreen out of a sense of obligation and can take your time looking for a more suitable application or texture.