Sunscreen Spray vs. Lotion vs. Stick: Which is Best?

Skincare gurus and healthcare experts agree: sunscreen is key to maintaining healthy skin [1]. It helps protect the skin barrier from harmful UV rays and sun damage, while preventing skin concerns like dry skin, skin aging, and more. 

But when it comes to choosing a sunscreen product, which one is right for you: mineral sunscreen, chemical sunscreen, sunscreen spray, lotion, or a stick? There are lots of questions that can arise when picking out the right UV protection. 

In this guide, we’re exploring the sunscreen spray vs. lotion vs. stick debate in detail to help you choose the right product for your lifestyle, skincare needs, and environment. But, remember that wearing sunscreen is the most critical variable in the healthy skin equation: any sun protection is better than none at all.

Which Is Best for Sun Protection: Spray, Lotion, or Stick Sunscreen?

When it comes to the types of sunscreen products, spray, lotion, and stick stand out. Ultimately, the sunscreen spray vs. lotion vs. stick debate doesn’t boil down to the application method. It’s all about choosing a quality sunscreen that adequately protects your skin.

So, what should you look for in a sunscreen (whether you choose a stick, sunscreen lotion, or spray product)?

• SPF – The sun protection factor plays a big role when it comes to UV protection. What is SPF exactly? Well, it’s the amount of time the sunscreen can protect you from UV radiation. While the FDA recommends wearing sunscreen with at least 15 SPF every day, the American Academy of Dermatology recommends at least 30 SPF [2]. Ultimately, you should choose a sunscreen with the highest possible SPF for optimal protection. 
• Broad spectrum protection – Both the FDA and the American Academy of Dermatology recommend wearing sunscreen with broad spectrum coverage. They’ll protect your skin against both UVA and UVB rays. Both kinds of rays are harmful and can cause skin cancer, so you’ll need a sunscreen that can block both.
• Thorough coverage – You should also choose a sunscreen that will offer consistent, thorough coverage. You can achieve this with any of the sunscreen products in question (sticks, lotions, and sprays), but some are better suited to specific scenarios. 

Sunscreen Sticks, Lotions, and Sprays in Action: Exploring Applications

Let’s zoom in on the last point above: that some sunscreen types (spray vs. lotion vs. stick) are better suited to some applications than others. 

Spray Sunscreen Applications

Spray sunscreens are best suited for scenarios where: 

• You need a sunscreen that can be easily applied, like for kids
• You’re applying sunscreen in hard-to-reach places, like your back
• You’re applying sunscreen and don’t want messy or greasy hands

That said, keep in mind when applying spray sunscreen that it goes on clear, so you need to remain extra diligent to ensure you’ve achieved full coverage. You should steer away from using spray sunscreen in windy environments since much of the coverage can blow away before reaching the skin. <

Lotion Sunscreen Applications

• You’re more prone to sunburn or if you want to ensure 100% coverage
• You’re in an environment where you don’t mind a little “whitecast” (white residue)
• You’re looking for a sunscreen that also moisturizes or offers other benefits
• You’re applying a facial sunscreen specifically designed for sensitive facial skin
• You have a helping hand to apply the sunscreen to your back and hard-to-reach areas

For instance, people with oily skin might opt for an oil-free daily moisturizer with SPF for everyday sun protection instead of a greasier spray or stick product. There are numerous products available that meet this specific need alone. 

But, lotion sunscreens have two major drawbacks:

1. You have to apply them with your hands – If you work outdoors, play sports, or go fishing, you might not have access to a sink for hand-rinsing—so you may want to plan ahead and bring a few towels with you.
2. They’re difficult to apply alone – While you can spray your own back with a spray sunscreen (though thorough coverage might not be guaranteed), most people have trouble applying a lotion product to their own back.

Stick Sunscreen Applications

Stick sunscreen is another type that falls into the “convenience” category. Select a stick sunscreen if you: 

• Want to keep your hands clean while applying sunscreen
• Want the application to go on clear, without any white residue
• Are only applying sunscreen on certain parts of your face or body 
• Travel often and need a solution that travels easily and cleanly 
• Aren’t looking for a sunscreen with additional skin benefits

Since they’re as easy to carry and apply as a tube of lip balm, stick sunscreens are often chosen in contexts where convenience is critical. But, they aren’t without disadvantages:

• Like spray sunscreens, they often apply clear—it’s hard to tell which spots you missed
• Applicators are typically small, so they’re not ideal for whole-body use
• There aren’t as many varieties available (especially compared to lotions)

Discover Sun Protection from PROVEN

The sunscreen spray vs. lotion vs. stick debate ultimately comes down to personal preference. And, as long as you choose a high-SPF, broad-spectrum product that offers thorough coverage, any of these application methods will provide the protection you need from harmful UV rays and sun exposure. 

If you’re ready to commit to sun protection and skin health, PROVEN is here to help. Our personalized formulas are customized based on your skin and skincare goals, and we only use safe ingredients backed by science. Plus, we simplify skincare into a three-step process: facial cleanser, daily moisturizer with SPF, and night cream are all you’ll need to get started. Once you’ve started your routine, you can add some other essential products like an eye cream or serum. 

Take our skincare quiz to create your personalized formula and discover healthy skin.