Spray Sunscreen

While looking at powdered sunscreen, I wondered how effective spray sunscreens are.  I used a spray sunscreen one time when I went sailing with my sister and I ended up nicely burned so I wasn't sure it was any good in that form.  

We know that sunscreen when used in the lotion or creme form offers the absolute best form of protection, especially when it is reapplied regularly.  You now know that powder sunscreen is good used over a base of liquid sunscreen but is spray as effective as the lotions?  Let's find out.

According to a 2018 study, people bought spray sunscreen in almost the same number as those sold in lotion form.  The research indicates that spray sunscreen is as effective as the lotion form but only if it is used correctly. First of all, it is important to apply enough sunscreen for it to be effective but that can be difficult to determine. If you purchased a spray sunscreen rated at 45 SPF and spray it on for 2 to 3 seconds, you are not going to get the full benefit. Due to that issue, more dermatologists recommend the lotion over the spray form.

Since it is in spray form, it is possible to inhale particles and sprays are not regulated in the same way as lotions.  It is best not to use the spray form on a windy day because it will be difficult to get enough on your body instead of the towel, the air, someone else, etc. Also, don't apply it near a heat source such as grills, candles, lit cigarettes, etc because they are flammable and you don't want to set yourself on fire.

To use the spray sunscreen properly, use it outside rather than inside.  You need the ventilation and you don't want to make your floors slippery when the remaining spray ends up on the floor. When you use it, hold the nozzle near your skin and spray until you see the liquid on your skin (the skin glistens and is wet), then rub it into your skin. If you aren't sure if your skin is glistening, spray the sunscreen for at least 6 seconds for the area.  This way you ensure the sunscreen is applied evenly on your skin and you cover any spots missed by the spray.  For best results, use a lotion for the first layer, then use the spray for reapplying.  

They say that a normal sized spray bottle when used correctly is good for 6 applications if you use the correct amount each time because you need about an ounce of the spray for the proper amount. When you apply the spray sunscreen to your face, spray a good amount into your hands and apply it to your face for best results.  

Remember, even when using a spray sunscreen, it needs to be rated at least SPF 30, reapplied every hour or two, and you must spray until your skin glistens.  In addition, if your sunscreen is water resistant, you need to totally reapply it if you rub a towel on your skin because the towel absorbs the sunscreen thus removing it. Be sure to pair it with a hat and long sleeved garment for the best protection.  

So remember, use a sunscreen in lotion form for the very first layer, reapply lots of spray sunscreen every hour or two, reapply after drying yourself off, and always rub it in for best coverage.  Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.