The short answer is no, both work in the same way and provide nearly the same protection. The main difference is that sunscreen spray takes a lot more work to apply compared to lotion. But the long answer of sunscreen spray vs lotion is a bit more complicated. Today, we will try to walk you through the differences, similarities, and how to properly apply sunscreen spray.
What Is Better For Sun Protection?
When you consider the sunscreen spray versus lotion dilemma, the main question is which one is best for optimal sun protection.
The short answer is both products provide protection. Sunscreen use is highly recommended to prevent skin damage from sun exposure. Spray sunscreen is popular because it is easy to apply and helps cover hard-to-reach areas. For example, the back and shoulders.
But there are a few concerns regarding sprays. For starters, there is the risk of inhaling some of the ingredients or their propellant. Yet, the FDA has not specifically determined the health risks of inhaling sunscreen sprays. FDA only recommends not to use them around your face.
The big problem is most people do not use the proper amount of sunscreen, be it spray or lotion. You need two to three tablespoons to cover your entire body. Studies show that most people apply only one-quarter of the needed amount.
For guaranteed sun protection, you might be better off using lotion or gel. And always choose a sunscreen product with SPF 30 or higher and one that protects against UV rays.
Difference Between Sunscreen And Lotion
Let’s continue the debate on sunscreen spray versus lotion. What is the difference between using sunscreen spray or sunscreen lotion? When it comes to sun protection, applying sunscreen is the most important thing.
The type of sunscreen can make a difference, especially for children. What is better? Lotion or spray? Well, looking at the differences, it comes down to your preferences.
Spray takes less time to apply and it is easier to use on children. But convenience doesn’t always mean better. In fact, the US Food and Drug Administration and Consumer Reports have serious concerns about using a spray, especially on children.
FDA considers a sunscreen spray to be a fire hazard and shouldn’t be used near an open flame. Consumer Reports advises against spraying sunscreen on your children.
With the lotion, you can actually tell how much you are putting on your body and skin. We said before, people tend to use less than the required amount. With sunscreen lotion, you can be sure you are putting just the right amount you need.
People tend to spray for a couple of seconds when it comes to using sunscreen spray.
The lotion is the best way to go. But if sunscreen spray is the only protection you have on hand, make sure to spray it onto your hands and then rub it onto the skin and face. Avoid spraying directly onto your face.
Considering everything, a spray-on can be just as effective as lotion. But that applies as long as you use enough of it and use a high enough SPF. Also, make sure to reapply every couple of hours, but more on that later on.
If you want to know how much is enough, the general idea is that you should spray until your skin glistens.
If you spray directly onto your skin, rub it around enough that you can see it on all areas of the skin before it evaporates. That is how you get an even coating.
How To Apply Sun Protection?
Now let’s talk about the fundamentals of applying sun protection. If you follow these fundamentals, it doesn’t matter whether you use sunscreen spray or sunscreen lotion.
Fundamental No.1 – Realize you are not immune to sun damage
Many people think they are bulletproof. Do not take sun safety lightly. It is always better to take some kind of precaution. Do not assume you are invincible against UV rays just by using the best sunscreen product.
Remember, the same way a lifejacket drastically lowers your risk of drowning, or a seatbelt lowers your chance of death in a car accident, sunscreen lowers your risk of skin cancer. No, it is not a catch-all solution.
Remember, sunscreen is not a suit of armor. You still need to throw on a shirt and a hat and minimize your time in the sun.
Fundamental No.2 – Timing is important
We often make the mistake of not applying sun protection at the right time. For example, we often wait until we get to the beach and then apply sunscreen. But that lowers our rate of skin protection.
Make sure to apply sunscreen 15 to 20 minutes before you leave the house. Why is this important? Because sunscreens are made using a water emulsion. Water needs to evaporate off to leave the chemical actually protecting your skin.
If you apply sunscreen and then jump into the sea, ocean, or pool, you do not have the same level of protection.
Fundamental No.3 – The right amount
Sunscreen spray can be easier to apply. But you might risk not putting enough. This is why lotion is sometimes better. There is a right amount you need to apply. As we said before, two to three tablespoons are what you need for the entire body. Do not save up on sunscreen.
If you want to get more into numbers, the average-sized person should apply 35ml of sunscreen. That is 5ml for each limb and part of your body. If you see a family sharing a 100ml tube of sunscreen, they are doing it wrong. That is not enough for three proper applications.
And if you want to put things in perspective, 35ml would just about fill up a large shot glass.
Fundamental No.4 – Apply frequently
Here is another mistake people are doing. They apply sunscreen only once and forget to reapply. The old thinking of applying a heavy coat in the morning is not enough to protect you.
Usually, sunscreen lasts for up to four hours. But ask any dermatologist or skin expert, they will tell you that you should reapply every two hours. That is even more important if you are doing any kind of swimming activity that will rub your sunscreen off.
Quick Tips For Effective Sun Protection
Let’s finish off our article on sunscreen spray versus lotion with a few quick tips. Follow these tips, and you can be sure you are protected.
- Spray until your skin glistens, this is a recommendation by the American Academy of Dermatology
- Spray each area of your body for six seconds
- Rub the spray after spraying to layer across all of your skin
- Do not spray directly on your face to avoid inhaling spray
- Consider using lotion as your base and then reapply sun protection using spray sunscreen
- Reapply sun protection until you are glistening
- Keep in mind, that your sunscreen might be water-resistant, but it is not towel-resistant. Reapply after toweling off after being in the water
- Seek shade and wear protective clothing even though you have applied sun protection, including sunglasses with UV protection, shirt, pants, and hat
- Always spray generously, better safe than sorry
