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Choosing the Best Spray Sunscreens for Every Skin Type

  • UVPro
  • May 11, 2024
  • 5 min read
Discover the best spray sunscreens for your face, body, and sensitive skin. Learn about the differences between aerosol and pump sprays, and get tips for effective application. Read more...
 

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spray sunscreens

Photo: Wix

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Introduction to Spray Sunscreens


Spray sunscreens are a popular choice due to their ease of application. Simply spraying sunscreen on with minimal need to rub it in can really facilitate the process of wearing sunscreen. Offering a quick and convenient alternative to lotions, spray sunscreens come in two main types: aerosol and pump. In this guide, we’ll explore the best options for various needs and provide tips to maximize protection.



Types of Spray Sunscreens: Aerosol vs. Pump


Aerosol sunscreens provide even coverage and are ideal for quick application over large areas of the body. Spray sunscreens can have the same protection as offered by traditional lotion or cream-based sunscreens if they are applied correctly.  Applying until the skin “glistens” can be the visual cue to know when enough is applied. However, they must be used cautiously to reduce the chances of inhalation. Also bear in mind that product can be lost to your surroundings , especially on windy days or near water. It's recommended to spray them close to the skin and avoid direct face application. Try to position the nozzle closer to the skin - within 6 inches or less- to avoid losing the product. Be mindful of windy days or wind by the ocean or shore when applied as much of the product may be lost to the air if care is not taken to avoid this. Avoid spraying on the face directly, instead apply to the hands and rub in if necessary. And remember that aerosols are flammable and do not apply near an open flame.


Pump sprays, while also easy to apply, generally require some rubbing to ensure even coverage. They are less likely to be inhaled than aerosols and offer a safer application method around the face and sensitive areas.



Choosing Spray Sunscreens: What to Look For


The real challenge with most spray sunscreens is that it is not common to find mineral sunscreen-based sunscreen sprays. Mineral sunscreens, which include zinc and titanium, are large particles and difficult to incorporate into a spray. They tend to clog the nozzle so they may not be as easily found. This means that there is a better chance than not that if you are using a spray sunscreen that it is likely a chemical-based sunscreen.


When selecting a spray sunscreen, it's crucial to consider the formulation.


  • Opt for broad-spectrum protection to shield against both UVA and UVB rays.

  • Ensure the sunscreen is labeled water-resistant if you'll be swimming or sweating.

  • Check for added fragrances or oils if you have sensitive skin.



Top Picks for Spray Sunscreens


Best Spray Sunscreen for the Face

It is difficult to say how effectively a sunscreen spray can be applied to the face. Aerosol sprays must be applied with caution given the risks of inhalation and need to avoid the eyes. We often recommend applying sunscreen sprays to the hands before applying to the face. Practically speaking that seems to be counterproductive in terms of not necessarily gaining ease of application. There are facial sunscreen mists that are meant to reduce the impact of the spray on the skin. Given that even application is necessary for efficacy, care must be taken to apply enough sunscreen to gain the SPF protection listed.


Coola Makeup Setting Spray Organic Sunscreen SPF 30. This non comedogenic formula offers sun protection, makeup setting, and water resistance.

  • Avobenzone, Octisalate, Homosalate

  • SPF 30

  • Water Resistant

  • Non Comedogenic


Supergoop! (Re)setting Refreshing Mist SPF 40. This facial mist is intended to address the aspect of sunscreen we rarely discuss from a practical perspective. How do we reapply sunscreen to the face?

  • Avobenzone, Octisalate, Homosalate, Octocrylene

  • SPF 40

  • Designed for the reapplication of sunscreen


e.l.f Suntouchable! All Set For Sun, SPF 45. This facial sunscreen mist doubles as a sunscreen and setting spray.

  • Avobenzone, Octisalate,Octocrylene

  • SPF 45



Best Spray Sunscreen for the Body

Consumers tend to favor sunscreen sprays for ease of application. They are simple to reapply quickly and effectively. When it comes to sunscreen safety, body surface area of application matters. To balance the benefits of ease of application with reducing the exposure to chemical sunscreen additives, I recommend choosing a product based on how much of your skin you are applying it to. This guide is broken down by best body sunscreen sprays for use while wearing swimwear vs best body sunscreen spray for daily exposed skin such as forearms and calves. The basis for this is recognizing that the application of sunscreen to a larger body surface area such as while wearing a swimsuit can run a higher risk of absorption.


  • Zinc oxide

  • SPF 50

  • Water resistant


  • Zinc oxide

  • SPF 30

  • Water resistant


  • Zinc oxide

  • SPF 50

  • Water resistant


  • Zinc oxide

  • SPF 50

  • Water resistant


  • Zinc oxide

  • SPF 30

  • Water resistant


  • Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide

  • SPF 50

  • Water resistant


sunscreen spray


For sunscreens during sport for limited exposed areas, consider the following options to reduce the amount of chemical sunscreen exposure.


  • Homosalate, Octisalate, Octocrylene, Zinc

  • SPF 50

  • Water resistant


Best Spray Sunscreen for Sensitive Skin

Seeking a spray sunscreen for sensitive skin usually requires one that is fragrance free and mineral based to reduce the chances of sensitivity associated with chemical sunscreen additives.


  • Zinc oxide, titanium dioxide

  • SPF 50

  • Water resistant

  • Pump form


Best Spray Sunscreen for Swimming

For a sunscreen option in circumstances where you will be actively swimming, water resistance is essential preferably at the 80 minute mark for activity. Also recognizing ease of application, quicker onset of action, and widespread use means that mineral sunscreens will again take the lead. Lastly, bear in mind that if swimming in a pool, the sunscreen will wash off - INTO the water - where incidental ingestion may occur. After all, when sunscreen wears off with swimming it has to go somewhere meaning it is likely in the pool. After trying out numerous spray sunscreens, the ones that fit this description are limited.


  • Zinc oxide

  • SPF 50

  • Water resistant


  • Zinc oxide

  • SPF 30

  • Water resistant



Spray vs. Lotion Sunscreens


While spray sunscreens are favored for their convenience and ease of application, they often lack the variety of mineral options available in lotion forms. For those preferring mineral formulations due to their gentler nature and effectiveness, lotion sunscreens might be a better choice. In terms of SPF, the SPF designated on the label can be trusted as this is based on testing and an FDA approval process to verify the product provides the protection indicated.


Spray sunscreens can be an excellent option for those seeking quick and easy sun protection. By understanding the differences between types and knowing what to look for, you can choose a product that offers the best protection for your skin type and lifestyle.


 

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