Why sunscreen stings your eyes during sports

Before you head out for a bike ride, a run or a long walk in the sun, you diligently apply sunscreen. But after a while it starts: a burning sensation in your eyes, your vision becomes blurry and you find yourself constantly blinking or rubbing your eyes.

Many athletes recognize this problem. Some sunscreens simply become uncomfortable during exercise. The result? You apply less product, avoid the forehead area, or simply don’t reapply your sunscreen.

Why does this happen?

Sweat causes sunscreen to migrate

During exercise, your body temperature rises and you start to sweat. That sweat can partially break down the protective film of sunscreen on the skin.

When this happens, the product will slowly migrate towards the eyes. Sweat tends to accumulate around the forehead and temples and then runs downward, carrying along small amounts of sunscreen. Once this comes into contact with the sensitive eye surface or tear film, it causes a burning or stinging sensation.

The choice of filter technology can make a difference in comfort during sports

The eye is extremely sensitive

The surface of the eye and the tear film are highly sensitive to disruption. Even small amounts of cosmetic ingredients can affect this delicate balance. As a result, the eye quickly reacts with symptoms such as:

• burning

• watery eyes

• blurred vision

• irritation

Wiping your face with a towel or touching your face usually spreads sunscreen further towards the eye area.

Not all sunscreens are created equal

The likelihood of irritation strongly depends on the formulation of the product.

Some sunscreens use so-called organic (chemical) UV filters, which dissolve completely in the formula. When such a formula migrates due to sweat or water, these filters can more easily move towards the eyes.

That is why the choice of filter technology can make a difference in comfort during sports.

Mineral filters, such as zinc oxide, work differently. They form a protective layer on the skin that reflects and scatters UV radiation. In well-formulated products, these filters tend to stay more stable on the skin, which reduces the risk of migration into the eyes.

What works well during a relaxed day at the beach is not always ideal during intense physical activity.

Sun protection needs to work differently during sports

A sunscreen for sports should meet a few key requirements:

• stay in place during movement and sweating

• not migrate towards the eyes

• help protect and hydrate the skin during prolonged outdoor activity

Water- and sweat-resistant formulas help keep the protective layer more stable on the skin, reducing the risk of the product moving into the eye area.

At the same time, it helps when a formula contains ingredients that support the skin during exposure to sun and environmental stress. Athletes such as runners, cyclists and hikers often spend long periods outdoors. Sun, wind, sweat and temperature changes can put additional stress on the skin.

That is why it can be beneficial when a sunscreen not only protects against UV radiation, but also supports the skin and maintains its comfort and hydration. Ectoine, a natural extremolyte, is known for its ability to help protect skin cells against dehydration and external stress factors. It supports moisture retention and helps maintain the balance of the skin barrier, especially during intense outdoor activities.

Comfort ensures consistent protection

For athletes and active holidaymakers, it is essential that sun protection remains comfortable during activity. If a sunscreen stings the eyes or affects vision, there is a high chance that less product will be used or that it won’t be reapplied as often.

A formula that stays stable on the skin, migrates less and is gentle around the eyes makes it much easier to stay protected during every training session, race or outdoor activity.

That is why NAQI Sun Care Sport SPF 30 was developed with a mineral zinc oxide filter, a water- and sweat-resistant formulation, and additional ingredients that help hydrate and support the skin.

Specifically developed for those who move: mineral, sweat-resistant and anti-eye sting.