Why Sunscreens Can Make Cry (and products that won't)

A SunnyDayBros Collective guide to more comfortable sun protection

We've all been there: You're enjoying a beautiful day outdoors, the sun is shining, and then it happens... your sunscreen starts to migrate into your eyes, causing that familiar burning sensation, watery eyes, and discomfort that can ruin your outdoor adventure. At SunnyDayBros, we understand this frustration, which is why we've researched the science behind this common problem and found solutions that will keep your eyes happy while your skin stays protected.

Why Do Sunscreens Make Your Eyes Water? The Science Explained

Chemical Culprits

The primary reason many sunscreens cause eye irritation is the active ingredients they contain. Chemical UV filters are particularly problematic:

• Avobenzone - A popular UVA filter known to cause significant stinging when it contacts the eyes
• Octocrylene - Commonly irritates sensitive skin and eye areas
• Homosalate - May trigger eye irritation in many individuals
• Octinoxate - Frequently causes eye stinging, burning, and excessive tearing

These chemicals are effective at absorbing UV radiation, but when they migrate into your eyes (through sweating, touching your face, or applying too close to the eye area), they can cause an immediate irritation response.

The Tear Film Disruption

Your eyes are protected by a delicate tear film—a three-layered protective coating that keeps your eyes moist and comfortable. When sunscreen enters your eyes, it disrupts this protective layer, causing:

1. Increased tear production (your eyes' attempt to flush out the irritant)
2. Temporary inflammation of the conjunctiva (the membrane covering your eye)
3. A burning or stinging sensation that can last until the irritant is fully flushed out

pH Imbalance

The pH of your tears is approximately 7.0-7.3, while many sunscreen formulations have a significantly different pH level. This incompatibility triggers irritation when sunscreen mixes with your tear film, as your eyes try to restore their natural environment.

Other Irritating Ingredients

Several other aspects of sunscreen formulation can contribute to eye irritation:

• Alcohol content - Creates a burning sensation and causes drying
• Fragrances - Added to mask chemical smells but often cause additional irritation
• Preservatives - Necessary for product stability but may irritate sensitive eyes
• Emulsifiers - Help blend ingredients but can disturb the eye's natural oils

Eye-Friendly Sunscreen Recommendations

Fortunately, not all sunscreens have to be eye irritants. Here are our top recommendations for comfortable sun protection that won't leave you in tears:

Mineral-Based Sunscreens

These sunscreens use zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide as their active ingredients, which typically cause less eye irritation than chemical filters:

1. EltaMD UV Clear Facial Sunscreen

• Active ingredient: Zinc oxide
• Key benefits: Fragrance-free and oil-free, SPF 46 protection
• Best for: Sensitive skin prone to acne or rosacea
• Why we love it: Lightweight formula that doesn't leave a white cast

2. Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen

• Active ingredients: Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide
• Key benefits: No parabens or fragrances, SPF 50+ protection
• Best for: Family use, including children
• Why we love it: The bottle turns blue in UV light as a reminder to apply

3. CeraVe Hydrating Mineral Sunscreen

• Active ingredients: Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide
• Key benefits: Contains ceramides to maintain skin barrier, SPF 50 protection
• Best for: Very dry or sensitive skin
• Why we love it: Developed with dermatologists for sensitive skin

Stick Formulations

Stick sunscreens are less likely to migrate into your eyes, making them ideal for the eye area and for active individuals:

1. Neutrogena Beach Defense Water-Resistant Sunscreen Stick

• Key benefits: Solid form stays in place, SPF 50+ protection
• Best for: Active individuals who sweat a lot
• Why we love it: Perfect for targeted application around eyes and on the go

2. Supergoop! Glow Stick Sunscreen

• Key benefits: Mineral oil-free, SPF 50 protection
• Best for: Face and chest application
• Why we love it: Leaves a glow rather than white cast, perfect for makeup wearers

Face-Specific Formulations

These sunscreens are designed with facial sensitivity in mind:

1. La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Sunscreen

• Key benefits: Tested for sensitive eyes and skin, SPF 60 protection
• Best for: Very sensitive skin with high sun exposure
• Why we love it: Oil-free, fragrance-free formula that absorbs quickly

2. Vanicream Sunscreen Sport

• Key benefits: Free of dyes, fragrance, masking fragrance, and preservatives
• Best for: Those with multiple skin sensitivities
• Why we love it: Water-resistant formula that stays gentle on skin

Japanese and Korean Sunscreens

Asian sunscreens often use newer generation UV filters that may be gentler on eyes:

1. Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence

• Key benefits: Lightweight formula, SPF 50+ protection
• Best for: Daily use under makeup
• Why we love it: Less likely to run into eyes due to its quick-absorbing formula

2. Shiseido Ultimate Sun Protection Lotion

• Key benefits: WetForce technology that strengthens with water exposure
• Best for: Swimming and water activities
• Why we love it: Less likely to drip into eyes when sweating, with SPF 50+ protection

Application Tips to Prevent Eye Irritation

Even with the gentlest sunscreen, proper application is key to preventing eye irritation:

1. Create a Barrier

Apply the sunscreen around your eyes first and let it set before applying elsewhere to prevent migration. Consider using a specific eye-area sunscreen stick for extra protection.

2. Strategic Application

Apply sunscreen to your forehead slightly higher than usual to prevent it from dripping down when you sweat. Avoid the upper eyelids or apply very sparingly.

3. Layered Protection

Wear sunglasses and a hat alongside your sunscreen. Not only does this provide additional UV protection, but it also creates a physical barrier to prevent sunscreen migration.

4. Be Prepared

Carry oil-free makeup remover wipes to quickly address any sunscreen that gets in your eyes. The faster you remove the irritant, the less discomfort you'll experience.

5. Prime First

Consider using a sweatproof primer under your sunscreen if you're very active, which can help create a barrier between your skin and the sunscreen.

Beyond Sunscreen: Comprehensive Sun Protection

At SunnyDayBros, we believe in a multi-layered approach to sun protection. While finding the right sunscreen is important, UPF clothing offers several advantages for sensitive individuals:

• No reapplication needed - Unlike sunscreen, UPF clothing provides consistent protection all day
• No chemicals on skin - Eliminates the risk of irritation completely
• No mess or dripping - Nothing to migrate into your eyes
• Cost-effective - One UPF shirt can replace countless bottles of sunscreen

Check out our UPF clothing collection for stylish options that protect without the irritation!

The Bottom Line

Finding a sunscreen that doesn't make your eyes water may take some trial and error, as individual reactions vary. The products we've recommended are less likely to cause irritation, but what works perfectly for one person might still irritate another.

Remember that sun protection is essential for preventing skin cancer and premature aging. Don't give up if your first few attempts aren't successful—the perfect, comfortable sunscreen for you is out there, and your future self will thank you for finding it.

Have you found a sunscreen that doesn't irritate your eyes? Share your experience in the comments below or tag us on social media with #SunnyDayBros—we'd love to hear what works for you!

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This article is part of our ongoing commitment to helping you enjoy the sun safely. For more information on sun protection strategies, visit our Educational Hub.

Last updated: March 10, 2025