If you have ever gotten sunscreen in your eyes, you are aware how much it can hurt. 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 take a long time until the victim can feel comfortable enough to open his eyes, especially outside in the bright sun.
There's no doubt getting sunscreen in your eyes can cause a quick stop to a day at the beach. While it is common that stinging will remain for a while, it is important to tend to it as soon as possible.
The most effective way to treat the condition is immediately flushing the eye out with running water for a while. Doing so should rinse the lotion out of the eye yet it may not reduce the stinging for a while. While it won't help to remove the sunscreen, applying cool, wet compresses to the eyes may cause some relief. Eye drops such as Visine may assist in flushing out the eye, but it is likely they will cause burning.
Don't forget, even though the summer is nearing its end, it is advised to apply sunscreen throughout the year to defend yourself from the dangers of ultraviolet light.
Prevention
Never spray sunblock directly on the face. Apply first to the hands and rub into the face.
Never let little children put on sunscreen on their own.
Keep lotion out of reach of children.
Don't let small children rub in sunscreen. If they have sunblock on their hands they may rub it in their eyes.
Be very careful not to apply sunscreen too close to the eyes.
Wear large sunglasses to protect the eyes and the areas around them from UV rays.