Sunscreen application to eye area is superior to SPF moisturiser

SPF moisturiser coverage around eyelids has been found to be inferior to sunscreen application.

The study, which was carried out by a team of researchers at the University of Liverpool, aimed to find out how effective SPF moisturiser was compared with sunscreen. A total of 84 participants were exposed to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and photographed after two visits, where they applied either sunscreen or SPF moisturiser on one visit and the other when they returned.

The results showed that 14% of the eyelid region was missed when applying sunscreen and 20.9% was missed with SPF moisturiser.

The authors said: ‘We conclude that particular attention should be paid to the eyelid area when applying any SPF cream. Alternative methods of protecting the eyelids should be considered such as UV filter sunglasses. Moisturiser is not as well applied as sunscreen; therefore, if planning prolonged sun exposure we advise sunscreen to be used. If using moisturiser we advise one with SPF.’