Sunscreen makes me cry: this is probably the most common sunscreen questions on Reddit, so let's settle it!

>Short answer: It's usually not because you're allergic to sunscreen.

Most of the time, it's a combination of:

• The overall formulation
• Sweat and sunscreen migration
• How and where you're applying it

Let's break it down.

>Most eye stinging happens because your sunscreen migrates. As your face warms up or you sweat, sunscreen slowly moves from your forehead or cheeks into your eyes. Once it mixes with your tear film, that's when the burning starts.

Another reason is that your eyes are much more sensitive than your skin. An ingredient your cheeks tolerate perfectly can still irritate your eyes.

Which ingredients are usually responsible?

While everyone's sensitivity is different, these ingredients are the most commonly associated with eye sting:

• Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl Methoxycinnamate)
• Oxybenzone (Benzophenone-3)
• High amounts of Alcohol Denat.

>That said, the overall formulation matters just as much as the ingredients. A runny lotion which does not absorbs instantly is more likely to migrate than a dry matte gel, and applying sunscreen right up to your lash line almost guarantees it will find its way into your eyes.

How can you prevent it?

• Let your sunscreen absorb completely and wait 20-30 minutes before stepping out.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes after applying sunscreen to prevent migration
• Avoid applying sunscreen directly or closer to your lash line.
• Avoid applying sunscreen immediately after using a greasy moisturiser, give it 3-5 mins to absorb before sunscreen application.
• Choose matte or water-resistant formulas if you sweat a lot.
• Use products marked 'for sensitive skin' or 'sensitive skin friendly'.

Question for the community: Which sunscreen has been the most eye-friendly for you? And which one had you tearing halfway through your day?