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Home » What’s New » Sunblock in the Eyes- OUCH!

Sunblock in the Eyes- OUCH!


Individuals who have unfortunately gotten sunscreen in their eyes know firsthand just how much it can sting. In fact, someone who has experienced a severe case may say that it is a good alternative to carrying around mace or pepper spray. It can be a while before the victim can open his eyes, especially outside in the bright sun.


There's no doubt getting sunblock in your eyes can ruin a day at the beach very quickly. While the discomfort will likely remain for a while, you should try to tend to it as soon as possible.


The most effective way to treat the condition is to rinse the eye beneath a stream of water for a while. This will rinse the sunscreen out of the eye but it may not relieve the irritation at once. For discomfort, cool, wet compresses to the eyes may have a soothing effect. Applying eye drops such as Visine may help in rinsing out the eye, but it is likely they will cause burning.


Even after the eyes have been rinsed, vision will probably remain blurry for some time. If pain continues after a few hours contact your optometrist.


Prevention


  1. Never spray sunscreen directly on the face.

  2. Don't let little children apply sunblock themselves.

  3. Never leave sunscreen where children can reach it and use the lock mechanism when not in use.

  4. Never let small children rub in sunscreen. If they have sunblock on their hands they may rub it in their eyes.

  5. Be very careful not to apply sunblock too close to the eyes.

  6. Wear sunglasses to protect the eyes and the surrounding areas from ultraviolet rays.