Should You Apply SPF To Your Eyelids -

Daily sun protection is crucial to help prevent problems associated with the sun’s harsh UV rays, like premature aging and skin cancer. However, people usually overlook several areas, including the eye area. You’re not supposed to get sunscreen in your eyes, so most people avoid them altogether. On the other hand, you can get cancer on your eyelid. Should you apply SPF to your eyelids?

Why The Eyelids Matter

Eyelids are one of the most overlooked areas for sunscreen application. Most people leave a circle around their eyes where they don’t apply sunscreen to ensure they don’t get it in their eyes.

However, the eyelids are one of the thinnest areas of skin. Their thin, delicate nature makes them more vulnerable to UV damage. That’s why most people notice premature aging around the eyes before anywhere else. This area is also particularly vulnerable to skin cancer, including basal cell carcinoma.

What The Research Says

Scientists and researchers have completed a surprising amount of research on the eyelids and sunscreen.

Eyelid Cancer

Most people don’t think about cancer, but eyelid cancer is surprisingly common. According to research, the most common type of eyelid cancer is basal cell carcinoma. After that, squamous cell carcinoma is the most common.

Vulnerable Populations

Research also indicates that most cases of eyelid cancer are due to a lack of sun protection. Studies state that individuals who are older and those with fair skin are more likely to get eyelid cancer than other populations. The most common risk factor is UV ray exposure. The primary risk factors for eyelid cancer include:

Older age
Fair skin
Exposure to UV radiation
History of sunburns
Fragile skin
Certain medical conditions involving skin pigment
Weakened immune system
Previous skin cancer

Protecting Your Eyelids

Eyelid protection is the best way to prevent eyelid cancer. It’s essential to keep them covered, such as wearing tanning goggles when going tanning. You can also:

Wear A Hat: Wearing protective clothing is a great way to protect your skin, including your eyelids. A hat provides the shade you need to ensure UV rays aren’t directly on your eyelids.
Sunglasses: Some sunglasses provide protection from UVA and UVB, making them a great way to prevent skin cancer. Make sure you read the product description to ensure the sunglasses you’re buying provide UV protection.
Sunscreen: Many sunscreens are labelled safe for the eye area, so you can apply them to your eyelid. Stanford research recommends sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 to help protect yourself from eyelid cancer.

Sunscreen Application Tips

Applying sunscreen to your eyelids requires more care than slathering a healthy amount all over your lids like you would your legs. You need to be careful to ensure you’re getting the proper protection and using the right products.

Sunscreen For Eyelids

It’s crucial to ensure you have a sunscreen that’s safe to use on your eyelids. Products with too much fragrance or chemicals can irritate your eyes or eyelids. Carefully read product descriptions and only use sunscreen that’s safe for the eye area.

Apply Eyelid Sunscreen Last

You only need a tiny amount of sunscreen for your eyelids. Apply it last, and use the remaining sunscreen on your finger to apply a small amount to each lid. You need less than a pea-sized dot.

Use Your Pinky

Apply sunscreen to your eyelids with your pinky or ring finger instead of your pointer finger. Most people don’t apply as much pressure when they use their pinky, and it’s essential to be gentle when massaging sunscreen into your eyelid.

Best Sunscreen For Eyelids

Supergoop! Mineral Eye Cream SPF 40

This mineral eye cream does it all. SPF 40 protects your eyelids and eyes from harsh rays. It easily tackles dark circles and puffy areas to revive tired eyes. It also helps filter blue light, which can cause premature aging and comes from most devices. Infused with skincare ingredients, this eye cream is hydrating and nourishing. It’s one of this season’s must-have multi-taskers.

Why You’ll Love It

Lightweight
Non-greasy
Absorbs quickly
Hydrating

Check it out here!