No Sweat! How to Protect Your Eyes from the Sting of Sunscreen
Published by on July 18, 2024
Summer is here, and it’s time to lather up with sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. But what happens when sunblock gets in your eyes? For those hitting the trails and parks in Omaha, it’s essential to know how to handle this common summer mishap.
Why sunblock in your eyes is a problem
Sunblock is designed to protect your skin, but it’s not meant for your eyes. When sunscreen gets into your eyes, it can cause redness, stinging and irritation. This happens because many sunscreens contain chemicals that are not suitable for the delicate tissues of the eyes.
Immediate steps to take if sunblock gets in your eyes
If you accidentally get sunblock in your eyes, don’t panic. Follow these simple steps to ease the discomfort:
- Rinse your eyes with water. Use clean, lukewarm water to flush out the sunscreen. Avoid using soap or other cleansers, as they can further irritate your eyes.
- Blink frequently. Blinking helps to wash away the irritant naturally. It’s your body’s way of clearing out foreign substances.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes. Rubbing can spread the sunscreen and increase irritation. Keep your hands away from your face to prevent worsening the situation.
Preventing sunblock from getting in your eyes
Prevention is always better than cure. Here are some tips to keep sunblock out of your eyes:
- Choose the right sunscreen. Look for sunscreens labeled as “non-stinging” or “tear-free.” These products are formulated to be less irritating if they come into contact with your eyes.
- Apply sunscreen carefully. Use a mirror to apply sunscreen around your face, being cautious around your eyes. Consider using a sunscreen stick for better control.
- Wear sunglasses. Sunglasses not only protect your eyes from UV rays but also act as a barrier to keep sunscreen from dripping into your eyes.
What to do if irritation persists
If rinsing and blinking don’t relieve the discomfort, or if your eyes remain red and irritated, it’s time to seek medical advice. Persistent irritation can be a sign of a more severe reaction that may require professional treatment.
Discussing eye protection with your eye doctor
It’s crucial to discuss all aspects of eye care, including sun protection, with your eye doctor. At our Kugler Vision Omaha LASIK center, we encourage our patients to ask questions and voice any concerns they might have – even questions unrelated to LASIK. Protecting your eyes from sunblock mishaps is just one part of maintaining healthy vision.
Remember, keeping your eyes safe from irritants like sunscreen is essential for overall eye health. For more tips and personalized advice, schedule an appointment with a doctor at Kugler Vision today. Your journey to clearer vision is just a call away.
As modern vision correction specialists, we at Kugler Vision are committed to serving Omaha LASIK patients’ needs on the journey to a life free from visual barriers. Take the first step with a thorough eye analysis to determine if you qualify for Modern LASIK. Omaha-area patients who aren’t candidates for LASIK may be candidates for one of our 6 other advanced vision correction treatments. Book online at LASIKOmaha.com.
Dr. Drew Dickson is a board-certified ophthalmologist who specializes in LASIK and other refractive surgery procedures. He completed his undergraduate studies at Liberty University before earning his medical degree from the University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Medicine. He then completed his ophthalmology residency at the Medical University of South Carolina Storm Eye Institute.
In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Dickson is involved in research and has published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals. Dr. Dickson is known for his compassionate bedside manner and commitment to providing his patients with personalized care. In his free time, he enjoys spending time with his family and traveling.
Leave a Reply