Key Takeaways
- Three of the most popular sunscreen formats are the lightweight, fast-drying spray sunscreens; stick sunscreens, which are solid and portable; and fluid liquid sunscreens.
- When choosing between the three, you'll want to consider factors including your lifestyle, skin type, and which one you'll be more likely to reapply.
It's no secret that sunscreen is essential; So essential that dermatologists often tell us there's no point in a skincare routine without SPF. Protection from the sun is that important. Luckily, we’re living in a golden age of sun care. Gone are the days of slathering on thick, goopy, uncomfortable creams. Today's sunscreens are more cosmetically elegant, protective, and comfortable than ever before.
But today's abundance of great sunscreen options can be a double-edged sword, especially when it comes to finding the right one for you. Between the sprays, the sticks, and the liquids, the sheer number of sunscreen formats can feel overwhelming and confusing. To keep you comfortable and protected from the sun's harmful rays, we asked board-certified dermatologists Asmi Berry, MD, and Nava Greenfield, MD, to help us break down the differences between spray, stick, and liquid sunscreens, plus how to find the right one for you. Read on for more.
Meet the Experts
- Asmi Berry, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist in Los Angeles.
- Nava Greenfield, MD, is a board-certified dermatologist at Schweiger Dermatology Group in NYC.
What Is Spray Sunscreen?
Spray sunscreens come in a mist or aerosol format, and, according to Berry, are generally lightweight and fast-drying. Texture and consistency can vary—some feel like a fine mist, while others apply more like a water-y film that needs to be rubbed in. Either way, they tend to be non-greasy, which is why they’re so popular for body use.
When it comes to the actual spraying function, there are two different mechanisms used: aerosol and manual. Aerosol sprays disperse tiny droplets of product into the air, Greenfield explains, so you often need to apply more than you think to get full coverage. It's worth noting that propellants are needed to create that aerosol continuous mist, which can make it difficult to tell how much sunscreen you've actually applied. Propellants can also have a negative environmental impact. Meanwhile, manual pump sprays deliver a more targeted stream, which Berry says makes it easier to control and apply sunscreen evenly.
How to Use Spray Sunscreen
Berry suggests spraying until your skin glistens, then rubbing in the product to ensure you're getting the full SPF listed on the label.
While Greenfield isn't the biggest fan of spray sunscreen due to the risk of inhalation, it certainly has its moments. Spray sunscreen is particularly great for outdoor and on-the-go use. Use it to protect the body, especially hard-to-reach areas like the back, or for a quick reapplication during outdoor activities.
While spray sunscreen is better for the face than wearing no sunscreen at all, only use a formula that explicitly states it's safe for facial use. Berry suggests spraying the sunscreen into your hands first before application.
What Is a Stick Sunscreen?
Stick sunscreens come in a solid, balm-like consistency, similar to a lip balm or deodorant. According to Berry, they often feel waxy or creamy, gliding onto the skin with a thick layer that stays put. That can make them more difficult to rub into the skin. But that isn't necessarily an issue: As Greenfield explains, rubbing isn’t always necessary for sticks like it is for lotions or spray. Still, that can yield a less-elegant, sometimes sticky feel on the skin.
How to Use Stick Sunscreen
Adequate dosage can be difficult when it comes to stick sunscreens. Because stick formats tend to go on clear or semi-clear, it can be easy to underapply. While Greenfield says rolling the stick once firmly and evenly to cover the entire surface of the skin should be enough, Berry suggests a more liberal approach, going over the same area four or five times to build up an even protective layer. Either way, both experts recommend reading the label for specific instructions—after all, every product is made differently.
"Make sure when you apply not to miss a spot, which is a common pitfall," Greenfield warns. "People end up with very geometric and asymmetric burns from missed sunscreen stick spots on the skin."
Both experts recommend using sunscreen sticks on the face, especially for babies, kids, or anyone who might want a mess-free, water-resistant option. Because of the compact format, stick SPFs are great for touch-ups and on-the-go protection. Try using one in sensitive, targeted areas, like around the eyes, lips, nose, and ears.
What Is Liquid Sunscreen?
Liquid sunscreen is exactly what it sounds like: sunscreen that comes in a fluid form. But there's a range of textures within that category:
- Creamy formulas are thicker and more moisturizing, making them ideal for dry or mature skin.
- Gel sunscreens have a more gelatinous consistency that glides across the skin and often feels more silicone-y than traditional liquid SPFs.
- Serum-style sunscreens are lightweight on the skin, absorb quickly, and are often packed with additional skincare benefits. Berry says these work great for combination or oily skin types and under makeup.
- Finally, you have the watery fluids. These are super thin and runny, almost like the texture of an essence. As a result, they feel weightless on the skin and are ideal for layering.
How to Use Liquid Sunscreen
Regardless of the texture, experts suggest using a nickel-to-quarter-sized amount for the face, and around a shot-glass worth (one ounce) for the body. Liquid sunscreens are generally considered the gold standard for initial application, largely because they're the most commonly used format.
How to Choose
"The best SPF formula comes down to your skin type, lifestyle, and how likely you are to reapply," Berry shares. "If you're outdoors or active, go for water-resistant sticks or sprays. If you're skincare-focused or wear makeup, serums and lightweight fluids are easy to layer. And if your skin is dry or reactive, go for creamier formulas for added moisture."
Think about your preferred texture for moisturizers and other topical products; If you hate the feeling of a thick, goopy cream, you probably want to avoid a heavier liquid SPF. Consider your skin type and activity level—if you're acne-prone, you might want something a bit lighter, while those more active might prefer a water-resistant formula.
Greenfield suggests trying out different formats, consistencies, and brands to find the one you're most likely to apply daily. It's important to remember that you can apply one type of sunscreen initially and use a different one to reapply and touch up throughout the day—you're never really limited to just one.
No matter the format, the best sunscreen is the one you'll actually use and reapply. Always stick with a broad-spectrum SPF of 30 or higher, and make sure you're using enough of it.
