Those who have regrettably gotten sunscreen in their eyes know firsthand just how much it can sting. In fact, someone who has experienced a severe case may compare it to mace or pepper spray. It can be a while before the victim can comfortably open his eyes, particularly in the glaring sun.
Needless to say getting sunscreen in your eyes can cause a quick stop to a day by the pool instantly. While the discomfort will likely last for a while, you should try to treat 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. This will flush the sunscreen out of the eye but it probably won't reduce the stinging at once. While it won't help to remove the sunscreen, applying cool, wet compresses to the eyes may cause some relief. Eye drops such as ClearEyes may be useful in rinsing out the eye, but they will cause burning.
Even after the eyes are flushed, it is normal for vision to be somewhat blurry. If discomfort persists into the next day contact your optometrist.
Prevention
Never spray sunscreen directly on the face.
Don't let little children put on lotion alone.
Keep lotion out of reach of children.
Don't let small children rub in sunscreen. If they get it on their hands they may rub it in their eyes.
Do not apply sunblock too close to the eyes.
Wear large sunglasses to protect the eyes and the surrounding areas from ultraviolet rays.
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