Are you looking for the best sunscreen for eyelids? You’re making a smart choice! ? Many people skip this sensitive area when applying sun protection, yet eyelids account for up to 10% of all skin cancers. The delicate skin around your eyes needs special care and protection.
After testing dozens of products for the best skincare for sun damaged skin and researching what dermatologists recommend, I’ve found the 9 best eye area sunscreens that won’t cause irritation, burning, or stinging. Keep reading to discover which product is perfect for your skin type and needs!
QUICK PICKS:
- ? Best Overall: Supergoop! Bright-Eyed Mineral Eye Cream SPF 40
- ? Best Budget: Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch SPF 50
- ? Best for Sensitive Skin: CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
- ✨ Best for Makeup Wearers: Colorescience Total Eye 3-in-1 SPF 35
Why Your Eyelids Need Special Sun Protection ?
The skin around your eyes is about 0.2mm thick—much thinner than anywhere else on your body. This delicate area is particularly susceptible to UV damage, which can lead to:
- Premature aging and wrinkles
- Hyperpigmentation and dark circles
- Increased risk of skin cancer
- Loss of elasticity
- Irritation and inflammation
Regular sunscreens often contain chemical filters like avobenzone, octinoxate, and oxybenzone that can migrate into your eyes when you sweat, causing painful stinging. That’s why many people avoid applying sunscreen to their eyelids altogether.
But skipping this crucial area leaves you vulnerable to serious damage. Instead, you need products specifically formulated for the eye area.
Mineral vs. Chemical Sunscreen: Which Is Better for Your Eyes? ⚖️
When it comes to eye protection, not all sunscreens are created equal:
Mineral (Physical) Sunscreens: ?
- Contain zinc oxide and/or titanium dioxide
- Sit on top of skin to physically block UV rays
- Less likely to cause eye irritation
- Better for sensitive skin
- Often leave a slight white cast
Chemical Sunscreens: ?
- Contain ingredients like avobenzone and oxybenzone
- Absorb UV rays and convert them to heat
- More likely to cause stinging and burning
- Often feel lighter on skin
- Can cause allergic reactions
Bottom line: For the eyelid area, mineral sunscreens are generally the better choice. They’re less likely to migrate into your eyes or cause irritation to this sensitive area.
The 9 Best Sunscreens for Eyelids in 2024 ?
1. Supergoop! Bright-Eyed 100% Mineral Eye Cream SPF 40 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Best For: Overall eye protection and makeup primer
- YOUR NEW EYE BRIGHTENER – Supergoop! Bright-Eyed is a 100% non-nano mineral eye cream that protects against UVA & UVB rays & helps filter blue light (skin-damaging light emitted from your phone, computer, & tablet).
- DAYTIME EYE CREAM – Our hydrating, illuminating under-eye treatment is specially made to reduce puffiness & improve the skin elasticity & smoothness of the sensitive skin around your eyes.
- BEST-IN-CLASS INGREDIENTS – South African resurrection plant, wild butterfly ginger flower & pomegranate to help reduce the appearance of dark circles & illuminate the eye area.
This specialized eye cream with SPF combines sun protection with skincare benefits. Its 100% mineral formula contains zinc oxide that sits on top of the skin rather than absorbing in, preventing irritation.
Key features:
- SPF 40 protection
- Fast-absorbing, non-greasy formula
- Functions as a makeup primer
- Contains antioxidants to fight free radical damage
- Brightens the under-eye area
PRICE: $45-50 for 0.5 oz
WHY BUY: Perfect for daily use under makeup, this cream gives you high protection while improving the appearance of your eye area. Click here to get this multitasking product that over 1,000 reviewers swear by!
2. CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Best For: On-the-go application and sensitive skin
- [ BROAD SPECTRUM UV PROTECTION ] 100% Mineral based sunscreen reflects UVA/UVB rays to help protect the skin. Stick sunscreen for face formulated with InVisibleZincTM Technology, a micro-fine zinc oxide that spreads easily & has a clear finish.
- [ MESS-FREE APPLICATION ] A sunscreen face stick is ideal for on-the go application for the whole family. Convenient, travel size packaging makes reapplication easy. Suitable for sensitive areas like lips, nose, earlobes and around the eyes for both kids and adults.
- [ HAWAII COMPLIANT SUNSCREEN ] Oxybenzone free, avobenzone free, and benzene free, this face sunscreen contains physical filters Zinc Oxide and Titanium Dioxide. Hawaii prohibits the sale, offer of sale and distribution of sunscreens that contain oxybenzone.
This stick sunscreen is perfect for precise application around the eye area. The solid formula won’t melt or run into your eyes, and it’s packed with ceramides to strengthen your skin’s natural barrier.
Key features:
- SPF 50 protection
- Travel-friendly stick format
- Fragrance-free formula
- Contains three essential ceramides
- Oil-free and non-irritating
- Water-resistant for up to 40 minutes
PRICE: $10-12 for 0.47 oz
WHY BUY: This affordable, dermatologist-developed stick makes protecting your eyelids a breeze, even for those with the most sensitive skin. Perfect for tossing in your purse or gym bag!
3. Colorescience Total Eye 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy SPF 35 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Best For: Multitasking and color correction
- SPF 35 PA +++
- 100% mineral, chemical-free UVA/UVB and environmental defense
- Immediately brightens and corrects dark circles – in four shades for all skin tones
This innovative product offers triple benefits: sun protection, anti-aging properties, and color correction. Available in four tints, it works well for all skin tones.
Key features:
- SPF 35 mineral protection
- Reduces the appearance of dark circles and puffiness
- Smooths fine lines and wrinkles
- Tinted formula evens skin tone
- Ophthalmologist-tested
PRICE: $80-90 for 0.23 oz
WHY BUY: Though pricier than others, this product replaces your eye cream, concealer, AND sunscreen in one step. Perfect for busy mornings when you need protection and polished looks in seconds!
4. EltaMD UV Physical Broad-Spectrum SPF 40 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Best For: Highly reactive skin
- BROAD PROTECTION: Shield skin from UVA and UVB rays with EltaMD UV Daily SPF 40 facial sunscreen moisturizer, which infuses moisture into the face lotion to provide a youthful look.
- EFFORTLESS HYDRATION: This non-greasy sunscreen combines Hyaluronic Acid, leaving no white cast and working seamlessly under makeup or on its own.
- SUITABLE FOR TRAVEL: EltaMD UV Daily mineral sunscreen face is a TSA-approved travel size sunscreen lotion, making it the perfect travel companion when you need a daily face moisturizer sunscreen for quick trips or weekend getaways
EltaMD is often recommended by dermatologists for its gentle yet effective formula. This tinted sunscreen contains both zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for maximum protection.
Key features:
- SPF 40 protection
- Water-resistant for up to 40 minutes
- Contains antioxidants to combat free radicals
- Lightly tinted to blend with most skin tones
- Fragrance-free and paraben-free
PRICE: $40-50 for 3 oz
WHY BUY: This dermatologist favorite gives you excellent protection without irritation, even for those with skin conditions like rosacea or eczema. The tint helps mask the white cast typical of mineral sunscreens.
5. Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 50 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Best For: Budget-friendly option
- 2-fluid ounces of Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Face Dry-Touch Sunscreen Lotion with Broad Spectrum SPF 50 provides superior protection against aging UVA and burning UVB rays to help prevent sunburn
- Specially formulated water-resistant and oxybenzone-freeface sunscreen is made with naturally-sourced 100% zinc oxide and features Dry-Touch technology to help ensure it dries with a non-greasy finish
- Our lightweight and oil-free sheer sunscreen is free of fragrance, parabens, phthalates, dyes and irritating chemicals so it’s gentle on skin and won’t sting eyes and layers invisibly under makeup for easy wear
This affordable mineral sunscreen uses pure zinc oxide (21.6%) to provide broad-spectrum protection without irritation. The dry-touch technology helps prevent the greasy feeling often associated with mineral sunscreens.
Key features:
- SPF 50 protection
- Hypoallergenic formula
- Oil-free, non-comedogenic
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
PRICE: $20-35 for 3 oz
WHY BUY: The best bang for your buck! This budget-friendly option provides excellent protection with a high concentration of zinc oxide at a price that won’t break the bank.
6. Coola Mineral Sun Silk Crème SPF 30 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Best For: Invisible finish on all skin tones
- SUN SILK DROPS & FACE MOISTURIZER: Broad Spectrum SPF 30 UVA/UVB mineral protection
- PLANT-DERIVED BLUESCREEN DIGITAL DE-STRESS: Technology helps mitigate the effects of blue light, HEV light, IR, & pollution
- NOURISHING: Lightweight, sheer & breathable formula, with hyaluronic acid to hydrate skin
Coola’s mineral formula goes on sheer without the white cast typical of zinc oxide sunscreens. The silky texture makes it easy to apply around the delicate eye area.
Key features:
- SPF 30 protection
- Clean, reef-safe formula
- Contains plant-derived antioxidants
- Digital aging defense against blue light
- Suitable for all skin types
PRICE: $42 for 1.5 oz
WHY BUY: If you hate the white cast of most mineral sunscreens, this is your solution! The silky formula disappears on all skin tones while providing excellent protection and anti-aging benefits.
7. Shiseido Sun Protection Eye Cream SPF 42 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Best For: Anti-aging benefits
- SUN-POWERED SKINCARE – More than a sunscreen, this innovative formula is sun-powered skincare. Ultra light in texture, it deeply hydrates, controls oil, mattifies skin & provides SPF 42 sun protection. It also doubles as a face primer.
- KEY INGREDIENTS – Hyaluronic acid delivers, attracts, and retains moisture. Spirulina energy essence converts sunlight to target factors that lead to dryness. This formula is free of oxybenzone & octinoxate.
- ADVANCED SKINCARE TECHNOLOGY – Sun Dual Care Technology protects against UVA/UVB rays & pollution and amplifies the power of sunlight to boost hydration, for soft, matte skin, 365 days a year.
This specialized eye cream with SPF does double duty, protecting against UV damage while fighting signs of aging. The water-resistant formula stays put even during outdoor activities.
Key features:
- SPF 42 protection
- Specifically formulated for the eye area
- Reduces appearance of fine lines
- Water-resistant for up to 40 minutes
- Contains skincare ingredients for long-term benefits
PRICE: $40-50 for 1.01 oz
WHY BUY: A luxurious option that feels more like a high-end eye cream than a sunscreen. Perfect for mature skin that needs both protection and anti-aging benefits in one step.
8. Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen SPF 50+ ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Best For: Ultra-sensitive skin and allergies
- POWERFUL MINERAL SUNSCREEN – Protect sensitive skin from the sun’s harmful rays with Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion it contains no harsh chemical active ingredients that might irritate sensitive skin.
- SPF 50 BROAD SPECTRUM PROTECTION – The water-resistant formula provides broad spectrum protection and helps protect skin from up to 98% of UVB rays.
- FORMULATED FOR SENSITIVE SKIN – Developed specifically for sensitive skin, the hypoallergenic formula is also paraben-free and fragrance-free.
Blue Lizard is known for gentle formulations that work well for even the most reactive skin. This mineral sunscreen uses zinc oxide and titanium dioxide for broad-spectrum protection.
Key features:
- SPF 50+ protection
- No chemical active ingredients
- Paraben-free and fragrance-free
- Dermatologist recommended
- Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes
PRICE: $14-16 for 5 oz
WHY BUY: If you’ve had reactions to other sunscreens, this ultra-gentle formula is your safest bet. The bottle even turns blue in UV light to remind you when it’s time to apply!
9. Badger Clear Zinc Sunscreen Cream SPF 30 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Best For: Natural ingredient enthusiasts
- SAFE EFFECTIVE SUN PROTECTION: All natural zinc oxide sunblock protects from sunburn and skin damage. Mineral based sunscreen with broad spectrum UVA UVB protection for sensitive skin
- 98% ORGANIC INGREDIENTS: Just 5 simple ingredients to protect & nourish; zinc oxide, sunflower oil, beeswax, vitamin E & seabuckthorn. Unscented, hypoallergenic, chemical free sunscreen
- EASY TO APPLY & WATER RESISTANT SUNSCREEN: Light sunflower based, easy to apply suntan lotion / sunscreen rubs in clear. 40 minutes sweat & water resistant. TSA travel sized sunscreen
If you prefer products with minimal, natural ingredients, Badger’s clear zinc formula is an excellent choice. With just five ingredients, it offers effective protection with less risk of irritation.
Key features:
- SPF 30 protection
- 98% organic ingredients
- Biodegradable, reef-safe formula
- Unscented option available
- Water-resistant for up to 40 minutes
PRICE: $16-18 for 2.9 oz
WHY BUY: This clean beauty favorite is perfect for those who want the simplest, most natural protection possible. With just five ingredients, there’s less chance for irritation or reactions.
How to Apply Sunscreen to Your Eyelids Like a Pro ?
Proper application is crucial for effective eye protection:
- Apply sparingly – Use a small amount and tap gently, don’t rub
- Keep distance from lash line – Apply to the mobile lid but avoid getting too close to your lashes
- Wait before applying makeup – Give the sunscreen time to set (about 3-5 minutes) before applying eye makeup
- Reapply every 2 hours – Or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating
- Consider additional protection – Sunglasses and wide-brimmed hats provide extra defense
? PRO TIP: Use your ring finger for the gentlest application around the eye area. The pressure from this finger is naturally lighter than your other fingers.
Finding the Perfect Sunscreen for Your Skin Type ?
Different skin types have different needs when it comes to eyelid sunscreen:
? Dry Skin:
Choose formulas with added moisturizing ingredients like hyaluronic acid or ceramides. Cream formulations tend to work better than gels or sticks.
BEST PICK: Shiseido Sun Protection Eye Cream SPF 34
? Oily/Acne-Prone Skin:
Look for oil-free and non-comedogenic formulas that won’t clog pores. Lighter formulations or those specifically labeled for oily skin are ideal.
BEST PICK: Neutrogena Sheer Zinc Dry-Touch Sunscreen SPF 50
❗ Sensitive Skin:
Opt for fragrance-free products with minimal ingredients. Mineral sunscreens are generally less irritating than chemical ones.
BEST PICK: CeraVe Mineral Sunscreen Stick SPF 50
? Mature Skin:
Choose products with added anti-aging ingredients like peptides, antioxidants, or retinol alternatives that can address fine lines while providing sun protection.
BEST PICK: Colorescience Total Eye 3-in-1 Renewal Therapy SPF 35
FAQ About Eyelid Sunscreen ❓
Can I use regular sunscreen around my eyes?
While you technically can, regular sunscreens—especially chemical sunscreens—are more likely to cause irritation. Mineral-based sunscreens specifically formulated for the eye area are your best bet for comfort and protection.
How can I prevent sunscreen from stinging my eyes?
Choose mineral formulas with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide, avoid chemical filters, and consider stick formulations that are less likely to migrate. Apply carefully and give the product time to set before sweating or swimming.
Can I wear eye makeup over sunscreen?
Yes! Wait 3-5 minutes after applying sunscreen to let it set before applying eye makeup. SPF eye primers like Supergoop Bright-Eyed are excellent options if you regularly wear eye makeup.
How often should I reapply sunscreen to my eyelids?
Reapply every two hours during sun exposure, or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating. For daily use when mostly indoors, morning application may be sufficient.
Don’t Neglect Your Eyelids – Take Action Today! ?
The delicate skin around your eyes deserves special protection. Eyelid sunscreen is a crucial step in your skincare routine that helps prevent premature aging, hyperpigmentation, and skin cancer.
By choosing the right product for your skin type and applying it correctly, you can protect this sensitive area without irritation or discomfort. Remember that consistently protecting your eyelids is just as important as protecting the rest of your face—perhaps even more so.
? Ready to protect your eyes?
Choose one of our top recommendations based on your specific needs. Your future self will thank you for making this small but significant addition to your sun protection routine.
REMEMBER: The best sunscreen for your eyelids is the one you’ll actually use consistently. Find a formula you love, and make it part of your daily routine!
❤️ Did you find this guide helpful?
Bookmark this page for future reference, and check back for updated recommendations as new products become available. Your eye health is worth the investment!
Claudia Faucher is a full-time fitness training expert and lifestyle blogger. She is also been a certified Les Mills BodyPump instructor for the past 5 years and a fitness instructor for over 20 years. Claudia is a personal trainer and creates fitness training programs for seniors and people of all ages. She likes to use her skills and experiences to help others on their fitness journeys.
Last update on 2025-05-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API