In the past, whenever partaking in an outside sport I would rarely apply sunscreen above the eyeline. All too often I’d start sweating and inevitably sunscreen would get in my eyes and it would burn. A few years back I underwent MOHS surgery to remove basal cells from the hair line above my forehead. I’ve tried all sorts of products designed to be sweat proof, but still burned my eyes. Then recently I discovered Zealios’ Sunscreen or as they call it Sun Barrier. I’m a big fan of their Betwixt chamois cream, and their products are specifically designed for endurance athletes. So I figured why not try their sunscreen.
With 8% Zinc, it doesn’t leave your skin with a creamy white residue, in fact it dries clear and non-greasy. I followed the instructions to apply 15-20 minutes prior to going out for a ride, allowing it time to “set.” I applied it all over my face, even my forehead. The temperature range of my rides were from the 50s to 90s. The Zealios sunscreen with SPF 45 did not burn my eyes as I sweated in the heat and it protected me from sunburn my whole ride.
According to the Zealios web site, the Sun Barrier Sunscreen’s specs include:
- 8% micronized Zinc Oxide
- Filters 98% of harmful UVA & UVB rays that cause skin damage
- FDA’s highest water resistance rating (80 minutes)
- Dries completely clear with no chalky or greasy residue
- Unscented and paraben & oil-free
- Won’t sting eyes
- Easy on sensitive skin, won’t clog pours, which I can attest to as it never caused me to break out
The sunscreen comes in a 3oz tube @ $14.95, 32oz pump @ $119.95 (for large families), as well as single use pouches (12 pack @ $21.95) like chamois cream, making it easy to take along when you need to reapply or traveling.
While the Zealios sunscreen is more expensive than the typical drug store brands, after going through skin cancer surgery I need to do whatever I can to protect my skin. With basal cells it’s not if it will come back, but when. Stay safe and protect your skin from sun damage.
I’ve been using the Sun Barrier Sunscreen and the Betwixt chamois cream for several years and really like them for the same reasons as you. Does not burn eyes as other sun screens. As Zealios’ implies it is a sun barrier and not a sun screen meaning it does a better job of blocking the UV rays. Like most of us I didn’t use to use any sun screen and now paying for it. One of my younger cycling buddies once booster about not using sun screen. I told him when they start cutting skin cancer off you’ll start using it. I also will only but jerseys that are SPF rated to help keep the sun off my back and shoulders. You get much more UV light thru those light weight jerseys than you realize. I also wear those white arm coolers to keep the sun off my arms. Please everyone, wear some sort of sun protection. You won’t regret it.
i just use 2 bandanas under the helmet, SPF 40+
same thing in winter for insulation
or something flannel if it is really cold
wle
I can’t find this product listed/rated on the EWG site. Hmmmmm………
I’ve had the same problem but I find that applying a spray on sunscreen (with my hand of course) does not cause this to happen. Only the creams do it, in my experience. I use Neutragena Beach Defense
I think the Bedouins have the right idea. Watch “Lawrence of Arabia” and you will note that everyone is clothed head-to-toe. So following the example of the experts, I wear sun sleeves on my arms and legs, a neck gaiter on my neck and head, a light-weight shirt under my jersey, and a cycling hat under my helmet. On my face and hands I use a sunscreen with zinc oxide. Aside from the evaporative cooling (I live in arid Colorado) I get to enjoy, I don’t have to clean a sunscreen induced oil slick from my shower floor.
For something that doesn’t deplete your 401k, try NoAd Sport SPF 50. I apply it at my forehead hairline and use. a sweatband.. Never had a problem with my eyes stinging. Cost?-$8.95 for 16 ounces.